Summer pool openings

So it’s summer and it’s time to open the pool. Hmmm, where was everything returned in the fall? Hopefully you’ve packed all of those little pieces into the filter or clearly labeled box so you can easily find them now. If not, happy hunting. But really, opening the pool is just as important as closing it, only you do everything the other way around and instead of expecting high winds and heavy snow, you can expect to float in the clear water and host pool parties.

Basically the first thing to do is drain the water from your pool deck. Good luck taking it off if you don’t. Once this is done, you will want to remove it and let it dry. Nobody wants to keep a wet pool cover! Hang it over a swing or some chairs or just put it in the driveway or on the lawn, whichever is best for you.

Now you are left with some water in the pool and probably some leaves and other debris as well. Get all of that out and refill the pool to its proper depth. This will allow you to use the vacuum cleaner later. Before the water gets too high, put those pipes and fittings back on, you don’t want the water to come out of those holes!

Reconnect the pump and filter, which should still be clean, as you would have kept it clean in the fall, right? Once everything is fine with the water level, it’s time to clean the walls, vacuum up all the leftover debris, and make the water great for swimming. This usually involves a shock dose, a highly concentrated chlorine product that will kill all insects and bacteria and leave the water sparkling and clean.

Now is a good time to test your water and put in the right chemicals for healthy, balanced water. The pH is something important, if it is lowered a little, it can mean an uncomfortable bath for your family. When in doubt, or the work seems like too much to do alone, there are companies that specialize in opening and closing pools so you don’t have the extra work and fuss.

Once the pool is open, enjoy it because it won’t be long until you close the pool again.