As the weather warms up and the days get longer, it’s time to think about getting your pool ready for the summer. Having a pool in the summer is a great way for the family to cool off and becomes a focal point for the backyard.

Opening your summer pool properly helps to ensure that it’s clean and has the correct chemical balance to keep your family safe. While getting your pool ready for the summer is relatively easy, you want to follow these steps.

Clean Around the Pool

Getting your pool ready for the summer

Image via Flickr by wallygrom

Over the winter, debris can build up around the pool and on the pool cover. Take a broom and sweep up leaves, twigs, and debris. If there is stuff on top of the pool cover, use a mesh net to scoop it up.

Clean and Remove the Pool Cover

If water has accumulated on the top of the pool cover, you may need to use a cover pump to remove the water. Simply place the pump on the cover and let it do the work of removing the water. Place the end of the hose away from the foundation of the pool to help prevent erosion. Next, remove the cover. Consider enlisting a family member to help you carefully fold and store the pool cover for later use.

Add Water to the Proper Level

Over the months, water from the pool will have evaporated and you’ll need to add additional water to keep it at the proper level. If you’re unsure what the correct level is, consult with a professional pool technician.

Make Sure All the Pool Equipment Works

With this step, you want to inspect all the lines, hoses, filters, pumps, and skimmers. Clean out the baskets and skim out any leaves or debris from the pool. You’ll need to remove any winterizing plugs from your return lines. Inspect the equipment and, if needed, replace the parts or have them professionally repaired.

Run the Filtration System

Start this process by priming the pump. If you have an air relief valve, open it to release any trapped air. Run the filter for at least two hours. After running the filter, clean or back wash it.

Test Chemical Levels

While you can test the water yourself, consider having a professional pool service technician do this. Having the right chemical balance is crucial for having a clean and safe pool for your swimming enjoyment.

Have the technician come to your home and test the water or take a sample to their store. They’ll test the water for mineral content, alkalinity, pH, and chlorine levels. If you decide to test the chemical levels yourself, consult with your pool service so you get the correct testing equipment. They can also explain the range and levels of each chemical component.

Whether you’re testing the pool water yourself on a weekly schedule or having the pool service do it, these are the three key components to check:

Alkalinity

Alkalinity in the pool helps stabilize the pH and chlorine levels. Having the right alkaline levels can save you frustration in balancing both the pH and chlorine. The ideal range for alkalinity in your pool is between 80 to 120 parts per million.

pH

The right pH of your pool is essential for safety and an enjoyable swim. If the pH is too high, it can cause skin irritations and corrode metal parts. If it’s too low, it can inactivate the chlorine and may damage vinyl supply lines. When testing the pH, look for a range between 7.2 and 7.6.

Chlorine

Adding pool chlorine kills germs like E.coli and salmonella that can make you and your family sick. The ideal range of chlorine in the pool should range between 2 and 4 parts per million.

Scrub the Sides and Vacuum

Once you’ve adjusted the chemicals, take your brush and thoroughly scrub the sides and bottom of the pool. Use the vacuum to suck up dirt and debris from the bottom of the pool. Run the skimmer to pick up excess debris.

Run and Clean the Filter Again

Run the pool filtration system again after cleaning the pool. After running the system for several hours, clean or back flush the filters.

Shock the Pool

Before allowing anyone into the summer pool, shock it to remove any lingering bacteria or algae. Shocking, also referred to as superchlorination, also helps clear up cloudy water. Consult with your pool service for the proper pool shocking chemicals and how to use them.

Top off With Water

If needed, add more water to the right level and test the chemicals once more. If necessary, run and clean the filters. Then, let the family enjoy the summer pool.

Keep Your Pool Maintained Throughout the Summer

It’s important to keep your pool maintained throughout the summer to keep it clean and chemically balanced. Maintaining a pool takes a lot of time and work. If you have a busy schedule, consider hiring a professional pool service.

Pool technicians have the knowledge of what types of chemicals are needed to balance the pH, alkalinity, and chlorine. They also know how to clean and back flush the filters and what type of equipment to use for various pool cleaning tasks. The technicians already have the pool cleaning and pool maintenance equipment and chemicals, so you won’t have to buy and store them. Hiring a pool service helps to free up your time so you have more time to enjoy your pool.

Manning Pool Service Can Help

Getting your pool ready for the summer may seem daunting. There are several things that you as the homeowner can do to open your pool for the summer like clearing away the debris. However, when you need a precise chemical analysis, pool equipment repairs, or general maintenance, consider hiring our team at Manning Pool Service. Feel free to contact us today so we can help you get your pool ready for summer fun.