8 Springtime Pool Opening Tips

Warmer weather is great for just about everyone, but even more so when you own a pool. That pool signifies refreshing days, backyard barbeques, and outdoor fun across Canada. But before you dive in, you need to prepare your pool for that inaugural cannon ball jump. Here are 8 springtime tips to help when opening your pool.

1. Clean the pool cover – The first step in cleaning your pool is cleaning the cover where stagnant water and debris have accumulated over the winter. Sift out the larger debris, then pour some algaecide over the cover. Use a sump pump to start to remove what remains. While the water is being drained use your pool brush and start to sweep the water towards the pump. This will scrub your pool cover while it is still on the pool. The algaecide will remove any stains and clean your cover. Once all the water is removed you will be able to remove the cover.
2. Store your pool cover – OK, so you’re not quite ready to deal with pool just yet. You will need to store your pool cover. You have already cleaned and removed your cover, so all that is left to do is fold it up. Once that is done, find a Rubbermaid container that will fit your cover and put your cover into it. Place the cover in the spot you intend to store it. Pour more algaecide over the cover in the container and fill with water until the cover is submersed. Place the lid on it, and it is good to go. Keeping it submerged in algaecide and water will keep mold and mildew off, prevent it from dry rot, as well as, keep those little critters from nesting in it.
3. Install or attach your pool equipment – You need to install or attach all of your pool equipment and accessories that you removed when you closed the pool. This may include the pump, filter, heater, salt system, the ladder, and rails. Apply a silicone polymer to lubricate the O-rings, bolts, and screws. Never use petroleum jelly as it breaks down the integrity of the o-ring.
4. Dealing with stains in your pool – You know those unsightly stains that can mark the sides of your pool? That’s metal accumulation. To remove these stains, use a liner cleaner treatment to remove the stains. Once you have tested your water with a pool professional they will be able to detect if there is an accumulation of metals and recommend an appropriate metal remover that will ensure the stains do not return.
5. Test your water – After you fill your pool to the appropriate level with water, dump in a jug of liquid chlorine and a bottle of high percentage algaecide. For larger pools (60 000 L Plus) use two jugs of chlorine. Allow it to circulate for 48 hours continuously. Once it has circulated bring a sample of water to a pool professional to test its chemistry, including chlorine, pH, calcium hardness, alkalinity and stabilizer. You can also get test strips or a pool test kit from your local pool company. The results will tell you what chemicals you need to add to the water to make sure it has the proper balance.
6. Clean your pool – Once your water is balanced, a good spring vacuum should be done manually. Avoid automatic cleaners to do the initial clean as they tend to stir up the water and dirt too much. You will need to clean your pool on a regular basis. This means taking a brush to scrub the sides and vacuuming the bottom of the pool about once a week. Make sure to clean your skimmer and pump basket frequently to remove the bits and pieces that have landed on top of the water and that can clog up the water flow.
7. Add algaecides – You’re almost there! Once a week a small amount of algaecide (100 ml of 60% Algaecide) should be added to your water after vacuuming and backwashing. This helps prevent the growth of algae that want to make your pool their home.
8. Find the floaties – You’re now at the last step, and it’s the fun one – find the floaties! This is making sure that you have the right pool toys for all swimmers. You may need an inflatable raft for lazy days, plastic balls for a game of catch, and floaties for newer swimmers. Always have a competent swimmer watching the pool to ensure everyone stays safe.

Follow the simple tips above to have a quick yet thorough pool opening. If you ever find a few issues or need a little help, contact your trusty pool opening professionals so that you can dive in worry-free.