How To Open A Pool For The Season

Step 1. Clean And Store Pool Cover

• Start by removing the pool cover, cleaning it, then storing it away.
• Make sure the pool cover is cleaned when the time has come to open the pool.

Step 2. Fill The Pool Up

• Fill the pool’s water surface level to midway up the skimmer openings and the tile line.
• Add water throughout the week to maintain the necessary level.
• Inspect the auto-fill to ensure it is working properly at this time.

Step 3. Clean Any Debris

• Debris can undoubtedly accumulate during the off-season.
• Clean up any debris that is in the pool area.

Step 4. Inspect And Clean Pool Filter

• Always start the season with a clean filter.
• Check the media cartridges/grids for any holes or cracks.
• Change the sand in your sand filter every five years, if applicable.
• Add new D.E. after backwashing and prior to filter startup.
• Ensure all O-rings are sealed properly.
• Make sure the filter gauge is in working condition.

Step 5. Reinstall Plugs

• Now is the time to replace all of the winterizing plugs.
• Reinstall all drain plugs for the heater, filter and pump.
• Use Teflon tape to prevent pump air leaks/filter drips.

Step 6. Prime Pool Pump And Filter

• Add water to the suction lines with a garden hose to eliminate any air in the plumbing lines.
• Open the filter gauge pressure relief, marking your starting PSI.
• Inspect controller for the following: correct time, hours of operation, variable speed and flow pumps.
• Check all components in the equipment area for leaks once the filtration system is operational.
• Open all suction and return lines, using the multi-port valve to clean out any debris.
• Return the multi-port valve to the filter position prior to cleaning.

Step 7. Test And Balance Water

• Use a test kit to check if your pool water chemistry is properly balanced.
• This is a crucial step toward keeping the water healthy.

Step 8. Shock The Pool Water

• Use either a chlorine or non-chlorine shock to disinfect the water thoroughly.
• If the pool has algae, you can use chlorine to eliminate it.
• Brush the algae from the pool walls before shocking the water.

Step 9. Ready Pool Cleaning Equipment

• Check, inspect and get your pool cleaning equipment ready, including the list below.
• Skimmer net.
• Vacuum plate.
• Vacuum head and hose.
• Nylon and wire brush.
• Telescopic pole.
• Leaf vacuum.

10. Get Pool Chemicals

• Keep the following chemicals at the ready while opening the pool.
• Soda ash.
• Algaecide.
• Calcium chloride.
• Sodium bicarbonate.
• Muriatic acid.
• Sodium bisulfate.