Feb 25
With the unseasonably warm weather this week, perhaps it time to start thinking about routine Spring maintenance. It never hurts to start early so those inevitable surprises cannot delay planned pool opening.
My initial checks include:
- inspect pool tiles, surroundings and gutters for signs of ice or freeze damage;
- check pump room for pipe leaks or leaky valves;
- open sand filters and check sand quality and level;
- open DE filters and check integrity of the grids;
- open cartridge filters and check cartridges for damage or wear;
- check/ run pool pump to ensure well-lubricated bearings and silent operation;
- check transformers and power supplies for water damage or corroded terminals;
- inspect fuse box and ensure operability of trip switches and earth leakage units;
- make preliminary inspection of pool lights and determine lamps that need replacing;
- ensure the pool water is still in pristine condition with no trace of algae.
Any major problems discovered now can be comfortably dealt with well in advance of the swimming season, when pool service is both hard to get and rushed.
Tags: pump , filter , leaks , pool lights , spring
February 25th, 2008 at 12:45
That looks like a comprehensive and handy list.
Thanks
February 26th, 2008 at 17:46
I just been thinking the same. With a day or two of warm weather I want to start getting my pool ready for the new swimming season.
Thanks for the checklist there.
March 6th, 2008 at 02:36
Great list, thanks a lot.
March 18th, 2008 at 20:43
What is the best pool water test kit to get?
Thanks
May 19th, 2008 at 22:05
Here is step by step instructions on how to open an inground pool
1. Remove all water, leaves and debris from the top of the cover. To remove the water you can use a submersible cover pool or basement sump pump.
2. Remove the cover from the pool. Try to carefully remove the cover without getting any extra debris that remains on the top of the cover into the pool or you will have to clean that out later. If some dirty water does get in, it’s not a problem. Using chemicals later will sanitize your pool
3. Lay the cover out on your lawn or nearby area and use water, carwash soap and a brush and wash down your cover. By doing this you will ensure a longer life for your pool cover which can be a hefty investment
4. If you are using water tubes to secure your pool cover, make sure you empty those and dry them out before storage.
5. Now go around your pool and make sure all plugs are removed from any and all openings in your pool
6. Re-install all of your deck equipment including your ladders, diving board, rails, etc. And make sure you lubricate all bolts to prevent from rusting throughout the summer months.
7. Re-install all your skimmer baskets and eye-ball fittings
8. Hook up your pump and filter and any additional equipment such as a booster pump or a chlorine dispenser and make sure all the plugs are securely in place
9. Fill up your pool if you pool has been drain or has lost any water over the winter.
10. Turn on the power to your pool. At this point make sure the system starts up. Check for any leaks or drips, make sure the ground wires are properly connected to the pump and make sure you pump is prime.
11. Backwash your filter. After backwashing if you have a DE filter, add more fresh DE according to the manufacturers instructions.
12. Now it’s time to add the startup chemicals. I would recommend to just simply shock your pool using 2 lbs of shock for every 10,000 gallons of pool water or 5 gallons of liquid shock per 20,000 gallons of pool water
13. Take a sample of your pool water to your nearest pool dealer and ask for a water test to get your pool water completely balanced.
14. Let your pool run at least 24 hours and vacuum out any debris. Retest the water and if everything checks out, go swimming!
July 16th, 2008 at 16:38
In addition to Swim University recommenations, if you own a salt water pool chlorinator be sure to check the salt level in the pool. As a general rule of thumb, if the pool water tastes salty, then you probably do not need to add any pool salt. Also be sure to check the cell for health and cleanliness. Limescale buid-up is a common problem and a mild acetic acid (eg. vinegar will do) bath is probably required prior to opening. Also, if you operate a heat pump on your pool, be sure to check refrigerant level with a certified air conditioning tech prior to opening. Happy swimming!
July 25th, 2008 at 15:16
In response to Kathy, strips work really well as they break down the composition of the water into easy color coded results. “5-way” test strips are a good choice as opposed to “3-way” test strips, simply because they test for more compositions.
October 3rd, 2008 at 06:16
yeah i agree, 5 way strips are the way to go
November 14th, 2008 at 23:10
Aloha, I’m a new owner of a pool in Hawaii and wanted to know how long should I run the pump/day? With soaring electrical cost, especially in Hawaii, I want to operate the pump only as long as it typically takes to keep it clean.
Second question; does running the pump have any affect on the chemicals required, that is, if I run it more, does it require less chemicals to control alge or if I run it less, will I need to add more chemicals to the control alge and the other nasty critters found in one’s pool.
Many thanks,
Eric
February 7th, 2009 at 20:07
Both Spring Start up lists above are well-done. Regarding Step #3 of Swim University’s list, it might be better to skip using car wash soap and purchase a cleaner that is specifically designed for cleaning pool covers. These cleaners provide the following benefits: 1- any chemical residue left on the cover will not throw off pool water’s chemical balance when the cover is re-installed the following winter. 2- specialty cleaners have a conditioner in them which helps to preserve the vinyl (if your cover is made of vinyl). 3- Most of these cleaners also include a deodorizer that helps keep the cover smelling fresher, longer.
When it comes time to store your winter cover, many people find that storing them in a large clean plastic trash can works best. In fact, one of the best ways to store a cover is to fill the can with water AFTER the cover is placed within it. Filling the can with water doesn’t hurt the cover at all, and the water keeps rodents from wanting to build their nests in the can/cover. You can pour the last of your cover cleaner chemical into the can,too, as a deordorizer and conditioner.
Regarding Test Strips: They have become much more reliable in recent years. Make sure that they are stored out of the sun and kept completely dry. Contact with UV rays and/or humidity may distort the test result. Replace Test strips every 3 months if you haven’t already used them up.
To Eric in HI: Typically, a properly sized pump will “turn your pool over” one time every 8 hours. For instance, if your pool contains 18,000 gals, your pump should move at least 18,000 gals in 8 hours. It’s a good idea to run your pump daily for as many hours as it takes to turn your water over at least one time. The older your pump, the less water it will move regardless of what the manual says. The best way to enjoy your pool is to be pro-active and use prevention. Don’t skimp on pump time, and never skimp on chemicals. Where chemicals are concerned, it’s best to think about a 3-Step Proram: 1- Always keep your chlorine level at 1.5ppm or better (higher than 3ppm is excessive and doesn’t provide much benefit) for a residential pool. 2- Never skimp on a good quality algaecide, even when the water looks great and you think it won’t hurt to skip a week’s dosage and save a few pennies. 3- Make a plan to “Shock” (or superchlorinate) your pool once ever week or two. This last step is like sending in reinforcements just when Steps 1 and 2 begin to weary against the attacks of weather, swimmer wastes, and other types of contaminations all week long.
March 10th, 2009 at 18:49
About the nasty stains that are left behind when you remove your safety cover: dont spend too much time trying to scrub them off. The UV light from our sun get rid of them.
And how come sun tan lotion isnt on the list.
April 11th, 2009 at 14:46
How can I get rid of the white film on my vinyl pool. We had to drain it this year to change out some of the legs, and I was surprised at the white film on the inside.
Thanks
May 12th, 2009 at 08:24
good information. I recently moved into a house; the pool had not been opened in 2 years. It was lime green. Now the pump isn’t working. It worked for a while, then just gave out. Any ideas?
May 13th, 2009 at 09:45
This is our first year with a Salt water pool. What start up chemicals are required?
May 14th, 2009 at 02:50
Just started the season this weekend, awesome weather here. Love my pool
enjoy the summer guys
May 19th, 2009 at 18:16
There is not very much pressure from my jets in the pool, what do i need to do?
June 15th, 2009 at 23:51
To Sandy Benham: You should check out YouTube. I have seen a number of videos that have people showing step by step what chemicals are needed for a salt water pool
June 30th, 2009 at 14:56
Great list. I wish that I had found it in time to direct our clients to it.
In addition, I would also suggest an inspection of the interior pool surface to ensure that no loose or chipped paint/coasings will clog the filter too.
Enjoy the rest of the season.
July 2nd, 2009 at 09:50
Please help me, I dont want my filters on 12 hours a day, Is there any way I can beat SUN TAN Loation/OIL, MY PH AND Chlorine are perfect, But have cloudy water in deep end of pool all the time, can only assume it Sun Tan Cream
July 15th, 2009 at 05:33
i am happy to know that there quite a few important things that we have to take care in order to open a pool
thanks for that useful information
July 16th, 2009 at 12:32
your blog is very informative especially for those who need to know
how to take care of their pools with the right chemicals
July 30th, 2009 at 19:39
Very true, I have.. Weather=Awesome!
Enjoy the rest of the summer!
July 31st, 2009 at 18:43
Glad I came across your post several months ago.
Your suggestion to check the pool lights came in handy! I checked mine, and found that 4 of 6 were out. I replaced them and all worked well. My brother-in-law recently had an annual summer gathering and he had a number of lights out, which really looked bad.
Thanks.
August 12th, 2009 at 19:59
Pool season coming to a close. My mom received info on this and is ecstatic! After 25 years of miserable and messy openings. Excited to try.
September 25th, 2009 at 10:20
I have a company that cleans pools – we had problems during summer with one of these pool – it was cloudy and took some time to become cristal clear – clients used it constantly and some went back to UK and now say they have white marks on their skin could it have been due to chemicals in the pool. My company operates in the Algarve and the chemicals we had while swimming is permitted is never in excess – can you help ??
thanks
October 12th, 2009 at 13:40
Thanks for this great list!
October 28th, 2009 at 09:12
Great list for all to follow when opening up their pools for the season.
November 3rd, 2009 at 11:04
We all know that getting the tarp off without letting all the gunk get into the pool is a big challenge. Try this. After pumping off the tarp, put your garden hose BEHIND the tarp and begin filling the pool. You want to fill the pool to the VERY top…..so its starting to overflow! The tarp will float to the top too and you can simply “slide” it off! Don’t worry about the excess water, since you’re gonna be backwashing several times after vacuuming. OR you can vacuum with the pump set to “drain” and pump the dirt directly out the discharge pipe. PLUS, with the water level above the normal “scum line”, you can use this to your advantage by using the water for cleaning/scrubbing the liner that is normally dry and gets pollution baked onto it.
November 19th, 2009 at 03:22
it helps me a lot about my pool issues. before i have a pool liner installation
December 9th, 2009 at 13:07
Great punchlist!
February 11th, 2010 at 11:00
Nice site. Lots of useful tips. It is bound to help lots of people. Please consider linking to our site for pool filters:
Keep up the great work!
March 26th, 2010 at 14:45
When you open your pool, and you have an iron problem, check out CuLator and the CuLator Rapid Metal Removal product. It works to remove metal within 48 hours and it is non-toxic!
March 27th, 2010 at 01:03
this site has great useful information for all pool owners
April 6th, 2010 at 18:13
Ah the annual ritual of getting ones pool ready
April 14th, 2010 at 23:04
Very well done. I appreciate a site that is dedicated to true swimming pool knowledge and not just promoting a product or service. The internet is the future of our industry!
April 18th, 2010 at 13:11
Awesome list, Good job!
April 18th, 2010 at 20:25
Cool site! Gotta love technology to help lower the maintenance on high maintenance toys!
I have been having algae issues for some time on openings.
I once had a clean water opening in a total of 6 years.
I am using a regular tarp. Is that the problem?
Do I need to buy a real pool tarp?
Thanks for any information or moral support!
May 22nd, 2010 at 21:34
Don’t forget to give that outdoor furniture a good cleaning and check up. There are a few companies out there can do a really good job refurbishing outdoor furniture.
That might help you get a few more seasons out of it.
May 28th, 2010 at 19:49
Glad we in the southwest don’t go through this opening and closing due to winter conditions.
June 2nd, 2010 at 15:01
These are great tips for all residential and commercial pool owners to do to prevent unforseen pool opening problems!
June 2nd, 2010 at 15:14
Some items to check are or can be;
Filter Tank, Motor Condition, Fillter Media, B.W. Sight Glass, DE or Sand, B/W Valve, Filter Control, Fill Line, Valves/ Multi-Port/ T-Handle, All Valves, Volute/Impellar, Hair Lint Pot/ Housing, Air Release Valve, Chlorinator, Acid Pump, Erosion Feeder, Pool Lights, GFCI Breakers, Are There Leaks, Do All Skimmers Pull, Does the Vac Work, to name a few items.
June 7th, 2010 at 03:48
Wow you just gave me a comprehensive list. Been looking for a complete checklist on pool management and you have just gave me instant answer. Thanks
June 8th, 2010 at 18:53
This is a great list of start up items for residential and commercial applications.
June 18th, 2010 at 16:25
I leave my pool open in the winter, but clean it thoroughly the Spring and still have algae issues. After two weeks of nice, clean, blue water, I suddenly see green stuff growing in my pool. What on earth do I do to get rid of this icky green stuff? HELP!
June 25th, 2010 at 01:20
This is a good maintenance list, if you follow these tips you should have no problems, great post.
July 16th, 2010 at 01:54
Can anyone please e-mail me with info of step by step on what chemicals should I used first when openning my pool for the first time ever . I have no idea what chemical comes first plead help , I just bougth a 5,000 gallon pool I fill it up with water now what chemicals should I poor in first , second , third , fourth and ect . I would appreciated it very much thank you and may god bless u all . Please e-maile with an answer if anyone could help me thank u againg . ( Ricardo-Paulino26@hotmail.com or at rpman69@yahoo.com ) .
July 28th, 2010 at 13:46
Good start up tips.
August 27th, 2010 at 00:30
The Golden Rule- get a liquid or “wet” test kit that covers alkalinity, PH, and Chlorine, then read the instructions. Test Strips are a waste of money.
Rule1- All sanitizers work about the same. Whether you have Chlorine, Bromine, Salt generated Chlorine, or Ozone system… the bottom line is that all pools require maintence to keep them clear and sanitary.
Rule 2- Manage your PH and Akalinity. In 100 degree heat, expect to add about 1 to 2 gallons a week of muratic acid to a 20,000 gallon pool.
Rule 3- Chlorine levels will only stabilize after you have balanced the PH and Akalinity.
Rule 4- Lowering PH and akalinity levels require muratic acid….to drop akalinity, pour the acid straight into the deep end over the filter returns. To drop PH, add acid to 3 gallons of pool water in a 5 gallon bucket then distribute it around the pool. Do not add more than 1/2 gallon per 8 hours in either case.
Rule 5- If your pool burns your eyes…there is not enough “free” chlorine…you need to add more.
Rule 6- If none of the above appeals to you then fill up a water bottle with your pool water and take it to a pool store like leslies or pool warehouse. Buy whatever they tell you that you need and follow the directions.
Rule 7- Once the PH, Alkalinity, and Chlorine levels *without shock treatment” are within range of the insert in your test kit… you are in good shape. BUT- you must test at least once a week during months of heavy use and heat to keep your pool sparkling clear and safe.
Rule 8- Have fun and dont be afraid to do whatever comes to mind once your pool has a balanced PH, Alkalinity, and available chlorine level.
September 7th, 2010 at 04:44
thanks, you shared infomation about pool.
September 7th, 2010 at 16:13
It is important to test your pool water not only when you open your pool, but throughout the course of the summer. The change of the seasons and sun strengths can make a need for more chemicals. Also using a pool cover at night will help keep the heat in.
October 4th, 2010 at 23:41
Good job on the list to check
December 18th, 2010 at 19:00
Aquaman why do you say test strips are a waste of money? Just curious
December 27th, 2010 at 07:45
Remember that when opening a saltwater pool your salt level may read as low if the water temperature is low. The lower the water temperature the higher the slat level needs to be for the salt cell to function properly.
Frank
January 6th, 2011 at 18:05
Don’t forget to have your pool filter cleaned (DE or Cartridge) if you didn’t do this before winter.
January 9th, 2011 at 22:23
Being in the swimming pool business for the past 18 years I couldn’t agree more with your advice!! I’ve never been one to use test strips and I believe using the traditional methods like liquid testers are the most accurate. Good article, good advice!
February 10th, 2011 at 14:34
Thank you for this check list. I want to start next week.
February 18th, 2011 at 11:01
Can you talk about the types of winter covers? and the good and bad
February 22nd, 2011 at 02:30
I have a miami pool service company and thankfully we do not have to deal with closing and opening pools but I like this list because it reminds me to set a time on the year to clean up the DE filters.
March 5th, 2011 at 16:25
To get rid of the white crust that forms on the pool tile you need to use an acid base product and some good old scrubbing. I use steel wool and it seems to work the best.
Pool Service Miami
March 18th, 2011 at 20:45
Thanks for the checklist, I’ll definitely be starting soon!
March 19th, 2011 at 18:40
Great blog.. it is important for pool owners to know how to properly maintain their pool.
March 20th, 2011 at 21:27
our pool filter won’t start. the timer switch doesn’t seem to work. suggestions and where to get a replacement timer. how to by-pass to make sure it’s just the timer. Thank you.
April 4th, 2011 at 17:40
If it’s still cold where you live, now is a great time to stock up on necessities like chemicals, mineral sticks and filters. Usually they’re still on sale during the winter.
April 15th, 2011 at 12:22
Thank goodness it’s unseasonably warm, I’m sick of this winter stuff! Thanks for the article! It’s always scary to pull that pool cover off after winter is over.
April 22nd, 2011 at 12:51
Thanks for the great checklist! It will really help when it’s time to open up our pool.
April 27th, 2011 at 10:34
I am new to pools. Just purchased a home with an above ground pool. It is a 15 x 30 oval with 4′ depth in all areas. My questions are: How do i calculate the amount of water in the pool (full)? My readings are: cya = 0, PH = 6.4, TA = 80,
chlorine = 1 and hardness = 200. I have some chemicals left over from a spa we used to have such as: balance pack and baking soda. Can anyone tell me how to adjust each one of these if needed? i also have the chlorine shock packages and 3″ chlorine tablets. Thanks for you help in advance..
May 8th, 2011 at 22:32
That’s very thorough! Many times people don’t take the time to do these things, but it’s definately a neccesity.
May 12th, 2011 at 13:45
I agree with Aquaman, all you need is a kit that tests, pH, alkalinity and chlorine. Test strips are not as reliable. Keep your media clean and make sure to check your filters!!
A little maintenance goes a long way with pools. It is 10x the work to bring a pool back to life than to keep it maintained on a regular basis!
Dallas Pool Remodeling
May 12th, 2011 at 13:52
I would be interested in writing a guest post for your blog what is your guest posting policy? Please let me know via e-mail
May 31st, 2011 at 15:28
Very good list, please accept my comment lol thanks!
June 7th, 2011 at 11:19
I think few people take the time to check their terminals, but that’s a really important element for the longevity of your equipment.
June 9th, 2011 at 01:41
Help! I just moved in to a rental property and discovered a in ground pool on the side of our house. Apparently the pool is has not been taken care of in 6 yrs. It has a cover and green water and appears to be holding water good seeing it always looks full. What steps to I need to do to restore the pool so it’s in working condition? Do I drain all the water and refill or what? Thanks!
June 14th, 2011 at 15:39
Awesome List, very comprehensive
Thanks
June 14th, 2011 at 20:43
We recently purchased a home with an inground cement pool – new liner installed last year – we are in process of trying to get up & running. We have a problem – we removed the winter liner & discovered that the tracking holding the winter cover was not secured every 8inches or so – now the tracking is wavy. Any ideas as to how we can now secure the tracking to the pool side & hopefully eliminate the wavyness along the edge of our pool??
help – thanks Kim
June 15th, 2011 at 06:10
your checklist is spot on! good job!
June 20th, 2011 at 14:31
If you are thinking of constructing swimming pool, then you should probably be reading through books to get ideas for your pool and meeting with respective contractors who can help you with your swimming pool. You can contact even me if you need any ideas
June 23rd, 2011 at 21:20
Well Great Guide You have their. Another thing people must know the safety precautions in the pool.. I agree with Kim Filters must be checked also every now and then. I also have a private pool made by Pioneer Pools in Christchurch pretty nice design and structure.
July 21st, 2011 at 07:51
Nice to know there are sites like this out there, it’s something we try to explain to all our clients. We’ll certianly be using this as a point of reference in the future for our customer base. Thanks.
July 26th, 2011 at 06:35
That is a great check list. Keep up the good stuff!
August 22nd, 2011 at 01:09
our pool at our last apartment was almost like a pond! but our new pool is much cleaner and nicer now. a check list like this is awesome! great work.
August 24th, 2011 at 13:19
We are considering installing a salt water pool, however, have been warned about the wear on the pool covers, etc. Can anyone please recommend pool covers that you think work well. We live in the Northeast/ New England area.
Thanks!
Dawn
August 30th, 2011 at 06:25
Wonderful post. Indeed I do explore the blogging world to find the latest on swimming pool industry, their designs and construction and I came across your blog post and found it is indeed noteworthy. I am now your regular subscriber and do wish you will be posting more good posts on swimming pools over the coming days. Thanks
September 1st, 2011 at 15:42
This is a great check list… May we re-post it at our website? I will give you credit and link.
September 19th, 2011 at 21:26
How about a article for helping people choose winter covers.
Ill chime in my experience…
Winter covers, winter covers, winter covers…
Winter covers come in various quality options. The standard 10 year, 12yr, 15yr and 20 yrs. They are all the same and come from the same place. Either made in the US or shipped from china which are thin as a peice of paper.
If you can take the time and patience to clean your cover each year then more power to you. Go for the higher / more expensive options.
For you lazy folks buy the cheapest one possible and replace it every year. Why sit and scrub for hours when its so much easier to buy a whole new one.
Hope this helps.. !
September 20th, 2011 at 14:42
I have some information that I think will appeal to your readers. What is the best way to make contact? Thanks!
September 26th, 2011 at 02:27
My goodness. I tried to clean my swimming pool myself and it was crazy hard! I had to regularly do it and was sure stressful. I thought about considering it as an exercise but was really too much for me. Professional pool cleaning services are simply practical to get. Thanks for sharing this.
November 7th, 2011 at 02:50
Great Content.
Thank you for share to me.