Every year around March, customers start coming in asking the same question: what do I need to do to get my pool ready for summer? Here is the checklist we give out at the store.
Step 1: Inspect your equipment.
Before you do anything with the water, look at your equipment. Check the pump for leaks. Look at the o-rings and gaskets. Are they cracked or dried out? Listen for unusual noises when the pump runs. Inspect your filter housing. If anything looks off, bring the part into the store and we will help you replace it.
Step 2: Clean the filter.
If you have a cartridge filter, pull it out and give it a thorough cleaning. If it is more than two years old and looks worn, this is a good time to replace it. For DE filters, do a full breakdown and clean the grids. For sand filters, do a backwash and consider replacing the sand if it has been more than five years.
Step 3: Bring in a water sample.
This is the most important step. After the cooler months, your water chemistry has probably drifted. Bring a sample to our store and we will run a full panel: chlorine, pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, CYA, and metals. We will give you a specific plan to get everything back in range.
Step 4: Shock the pool.
Once your chemistry is close to balanced, give the pool a good shock treatment. This kills any bacteria or algae that built up over the winter months. Run the pump continuously for 24 hours after shocking.
Step 5: Brush and vacuum.
Give the walls, steps, and floor a thorough brushing. This knocks off any algae or calcium deposits. Then vacuum everything up. If you have an automatic cleaner, let it run a full cycle too.
Step 6: Increase pump run time.
As temperatures rise, your pool needs more circulation. Bump up your pump run time by a few hours. If you have a variable speed pump, increase the daily run or add a higher-speed cycle during the hottest part of the day.
Step 7: Stock up on supplies.
Make sure you have chlorine, pH adjusters, algaecide, and a test kit on hand. Summer means heavier use and faster chemical consumption. It is better to have everything ready than to run out on a hot Saturday when your pool is full of kids.
That is the whole routine. Start this process a few weeks before you plan to open the pool for the season and you will be in great shape. And as always, we are here if you need help with any of it.
