As the weather warms up, it's time to get your inground swimming pool ready for the season. A proper spring opening ensures your pool is clean, safe, and ready for the summer season! The following steps are a good checklist to make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Start by removing the pool cover, carefully cleaning off any debris as you go to prevent it from falling into the pool. Once removed you will want to lay the cover out to dry, then clean and store it properly for the next season. Denscot will store your cover on site as you direct. We also offer storage in our warehouse should you want to save space in your own garage or shed.
While the water is still low is a good time to inspect the shell of the pool for any visible damage or wear. Check the pool walls, floor, lights and tiles for cracks or other issues.
Reinstall any pool equipment that was removed for winterization, such as ladders, handrails, and diving boards. Ensure all equipment is securely fastened and in good condition.
If you lowered the water level for winter, you may fill the pool back to its normal level. The water should reach the midpoint of the skimmer opening. While it’s filling is a good time to go around a remove any temporary winter plugs that were installed at closing. Its also a good idea to net/skim out any debris that has fallen into the pool now before you turn on the pump and filter so that their first run after “hibernating” over the winter isn’t overwhelmed with debris.
Reconnect the pool pump and filter system. Inspect all hoses, connections, and equipment for any signs of damage or wear. You may find you need to replace any worn-out parts to ensure the system operates efficiently. Inspect heaters and equipment for mouse nests too!
Once everything is reconnected and good to go, you should turn on and allow the system to run for at least 24 hours to circulate the water and filter out any remaining debris. At Denscot we recommend all variable speed pumps run at their lowest setting 24/7, kicking it up if the pool is particularly grubby.
Brush the walls and floor to remove any dirt, dust and debris. Vacuum and net as necessary, as you would normally.
I can almost guarantee you’ll need to add a pool shock treatment to eliminate any bacteria or algae that may have developed over the winter. However, test first, and adjust all your chemicals according to the test result recommendations.
Test for pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels. Adjust the chemicals as needed to achieve the ideal range of each.
You can use a test kit, test strips, or bring a water sample to our retail store in New Preston where we offer free water testing and water chemistry diagnostics.
Perform a final inspection of the pool and equipment. Ensure everything is clean, properly connected, and functioning correctly. Address any issues promptly to avoid problems during the swimming season.
Don’t be alarmed or discouraged if you pool doesn’t clear after the first couple of days. Denscot will often visit a newly opened pool multiple times before deeming it ready for weekly maintenance. A solid winter closing routine will make your spring opening run a little smoother, and regular maintenance throughout the season will keep your pool in great shape and ensure a safe swimming environment.