If you have an in-ground pool, you know how important it is to open the structure properly for the season. That will give you the opportunity to make sure it’s in good shape and prepare it for the busy months ahead. Here are a few maintenance tips to keep in mind.

How to Properly Open Your Pool This Summer

1. Clear the Pool Thoroughly

Pull up debris from the pool cover with a leaf net, then pump away any water that might have settled on the surface. Detach the cover carefully, then fold it up when it’s dry so that it’s ready to use when you close the pool. If there’s any debris in the pool, use the leaf net to retrieve it.

2. Add Water to the Right Level

Now, it’s time to replace water that evaporated. You can use your garden hose with a pre-filter to prevent metals from entering the water. Make sure that you fill it until it reaches the appropriate operating point. For most pools, that’s approximately the center of the skimmer’s opening.

3. Remove the Protective Plugs

Winterizing plugs are designed to prevent the in-ground pool’s vital components from freezing during the off-season. Remove these from all of the parts, including the filter, heater, pool cleaners, and pump. Then replace them with the proper drain plugs.

4. Clean the Filter Properly

Inspect the cartridges for signs of damage, and assess the condition of the O-rings to confirm that the seal is tight. After you backwash the filter, check the pressure gauge; it should measure the same as it normally does. If it’s too high, make sure the filter isn’t dirty. If it’s too low, have a swimming pool contractor check the pump for a possible leak.

5. Minimize the Metal Content

During the off-season, metal content may increase in your pool water—even if you used a pre-filter on your hose when refilling. You can use a sequestering product to separate these metals and prevent them from causing unsightly stains.

6. Check the Water’s Chemistry

After you’ve turned on the pool and let it run for several hours, it’s time to check the water’s chemistry. The pH balance should fall somewhere between 7.4 and 7.6, and chlorine levels shouldn’t top 4.0 parts per million (ppm). Finally, the total alkalinity should run anywhere from 80 to 120 ppm.
 

If you’re ready to open your in-ground pool for the season, turn to The Pool Guys in Troy, MO. These swimming pool contractors offer expert opening services to make sure that your water is right where it’s supposed to be—and ready to enjoy all season long. Visit them online to find out more about their services, including pool design and construction. Call (636) 462-7665 to schedule an appointment.