04/15/2016
With summer right around the corner, here are a few tips for getting your pool ready for opening day!
Step 1 - Remove Leaves and Winter Debris
You may encounter fall and winter residual leaves, dirt, and general weather buildup on and around the pool. Before removing the cover, blow any leaves or debris off the pool cover and the surrounding deck or patio.
If you notice water sitting on the cover, use a pump to remove that standing water and prevent it from working its way into the pool.
Step 2 - Remove the Pool Cover
Once you remove the cover, take the time to clean and dry it properly before storing. If you have the space, spread out the cover and spray it off with the highest pressure your hose allows. Let the cover dry. Then before folding and storing it, sprinkle a light layer of talcum power over it to prevent binding or sticking while it's stored. The cooler the storage, the better.
Step 3 - Check the Water Level
Check the skimmer water level. For the pump to function properly, the water needs to be in the middle of the skimmer opening for proper circulation. Add water accordingly. While waiting for the pool to fill, check and test all handrails, ladders, diving boards, and slides for loose bolts or other potentially unsafe conditions.
Step 4 - Clean and Prepare the Pump
Check to see that all equipment is in working condition. Check hoses, pumps, and filters according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Start the circulation system and allow it to run for 8 to 12 hours.
Step 5 - Balance your chemicals
Time for some chemistry, based on your pool pro's analysis.
PH levels between 7.2 to 7.4. The pH level dictates how much chlorine turns into hypochlorous acid in the water. Use soda ash to increase pH; muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate to decrease.
Total alkalinity from 80 to 120. Alkalinity is a pH buffer—pH levels will be consistent if the alkalinity level is correct. Use sodium bicarbonate to increase alkalinity, muriatic acid to decrease it.
Calcium hardness from 150 ppm to 250 ppm (parts per million). This is directly dependent on the hardness of the water. The softer the water, the more calcium it will absorb from its environment. "If you don't put [calcium] in the water, it will take it from the grout in the tiles. Adjust the calcium hardness by using calcium chloride.
Chlorine from 1 ppm to 3 ppm. A popular product for backyard in-ground pools are cyanuric-based tablets (the ones that look like large white hockey pucks). Cyanuric acid inhibits the sun's ability to burn off chlorine. A little protection from the sun for your pool water.
You can put the tablets in your skimmer baskets, but their low acid content means they'll eat metal—a problem if your pool has a metal filter system or a heater with a copper heat exchanger. Get a plastic chlorinator, which attaches to the filter system. Get a pro to hook this up.
Step 6 - Take Inventory of Supplies and Safety Measures
Check all support and safety items related to pool safety. Do you have a first aid kit fully stocked and within easy reach? Is your cleaning equipment in working order? Is the gate and latch secure to prevent accidental access or to secure the pool when you are away on vacation or business?
