Warm weather is finally here, and before you know it, you’ll be able to take that first dip in your pool. But before you dive in, we have first to complete the necessary tasks for a successful pool opening. 

A few proactive steps could help you save time, money, and trouble later. Starting this process early will help your pool stay clear, healthy, and ready for swimming or relaxing all summer long. 

1. Pool Cover 

The first step in getting your pool ready for summer is removing and cleaning your pool cover. If you have a safety cover, it may be dirty but not completely covered with algae. If so, simply hose off the dirt and debris and allow it to dry thoroughly before storing. If your pool’s cover has algae growing on it, scrub it with a pool brush, then hose the cover off with a spray nozzle on a garden hose. Let the cover dry before folding it for storage.

If you don’t already have one, buy or make a storage rack for your pool cover. A rack will help keep the cover dry, clean, and free from mildew and mold damage to the material. Fold the cover neatly and place it on the rack in an area where it will be out of the way until next year.

2. Clean Debris and Check for Damage 

First and foremost, you should always check for any damage that may have occurred before pool opening season. This may be easier said than done, especially if you live in an area that has experienced harsh weather recently. 

Is there a crack in the liner or concrete? Is the equipment working correctly? If there’s anything out of the ordinary, it’s best to call a professional to assess the situation and provide solutions.

Once you’ve checked for damages, it’s time to clean your pool and remove any debris that may be in the water. The best way to do this is by vacuuming the floor, scrubbing the walls, and skimming any leaves or twigs from the surface. Then, use a net to remove anything else that might be left behind on top of or below the waterline. 

If dirt had built up around your pool filter system during winter months when it wasn’t used as often—which can happen when cleaning isn’t performed regularly—you’ll need to do some extra work here, too so that everything runs smoothly again

3. Check Your Pool Chemicals

Maybe you have some leftover chemicals from last year? Take the time to read the label on them and make sure they haven’t expired! If they have, dispose of them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You can also check with your local environmental protection agency for more information on how to safely dispose of any pool chemicals.

4. Turn on The Mechanics 

Turn on the machinery and make sure everything works properly. Check the pump, filter, heater, and other controls. If you turn on the pump first and then discover you need a new part or that it needs to be serviced, you can take care of it before pool opening season. It is incredibly frustrating to get your pool open and filled only to discover that something doesn’t work correctly.

5. Use Chemicals 

You’ll need to use chemicals in your pool to ensure that it is clean for swimmers. For example, you should test the chlorine level in your pool at least once a week during warm weather. You should also check the pH level of your water to ensure that it’s between 7.4 and 7.6 on the pH scale (pH measures how acidic or alkaline something is). If you find that your chlorine or pH levels are off, you can use chemicals like chlorine to adjust them.

Pool chemicals are easy to use if you follow proper safety guidelines. Always wear protective equipment when handling chemicals, and read all instructions before applying them to your pool. Never mix different chemicals in one application because they could cause dangerous chemical reactions.

Swim and Relax

The time to start your annual pool maintenance is well before the pool opening season. Especially if you live in Florida where many people open their pools in April or earlier! You can still prepare well in advance and save yourself the headache of having a less-than-desirable swimming experience this season. 

Keeping your pool clean, clear, and safe is more than just opening the doors—you need to make sure no dangerous contaminants are lurking inside before you allow people to swim in it. We recommend starting at least three weeks before the official start of summer, so check out our checklist for what you should do now to be ready for when that first swimmer comes along! If you enjoyed this informative blog check out our other content and follow Artesian Pools on Facebook for more information about our pool building services.