Spring is officially here, and that means that summer is right around the corner.
If you live in South Louisiana, like us, then that means you have enjoyed summer-like weather for weeks now. This summer weather gives us the envy for an early pool opening, so here are 10 steps to get your pool ready for the summer swim season.
Remove, clean, and store your pool cover. (Note: in South Louisiana some residents do not cover their pool for the winter)
Over the winter months, pool covers can accumulate a lot of dirt and grime. So, first, make sure your pool cover is clean. Once clean and dried, ensure the cover is properly stored away for when it’s needed again at the end of the summer.
Fill your pool up
Fill your pool to adjust the water surface level to halfway up the skimmer openings and tile line. Monitor the water level over the following week, adding pool water as necessary to maintain the correct water level. If needed, be sure you inspect your auto-fill and ensure it is working properly.
Clean out debris
Even when covered, debris can sneak into your pool during the off-season. Remove any leaves and other debris that might have gotten into the water when your pool was not in use.
Inspect and clean your pool filter
In spite of performing this task at the end of the last pool season, now is the time to make sure you start the season with a clean filter. Check the media cartridges or grids for cracks or holes. If you have a sand filter, change the sand if needed – recommended every 5 years. Add new D.E. (diatomaceous earth) after backwashing and before filter startup. Inspect all O-rings to ensure they properly seal. Inspect the filter gauge to make sure it is still working.
Reinstall plugs
Replace all of your winterizing plugs. Reinstall your drain plugs for the pump, heater and filter. Use Teflon tape or another thread sealant to prevent pump air leaks or filter drips.
Prime your pool pump and filter
Eliminate any air in the plumbing lines by adding water to the suction lines with a garden hose. Open the filter gauge pressure relief and mark or document your starting PSI. Inspect your controller for the correct time, hours of operation, and programs for variable speed or variable flow pumps. After the filtration system is operational, inspect all components in the equipment area for leaks. Open all suction and return lines, utilize the multi-port valve and clean out any debris in the line by discarding to the waste position. Prior to operating the pool, remember to return the multi-port valve to the filter position.
Treat and balance your pool water
Use your preferred test kit to make sure your pool water chemistry is appropriately balanced. Maintaining the proper balance is crucial to keeping your pool water healthy. There are various types of pool test kits you can choose from, such as test strips, liquid reagent kits and digital testers.
Shock your pool water
Use a chlorine shock to thoroughly disinfect your pool water. If your pool has algae, use an additional algaecide to eradicate it. Prior to shocking, be sure to brush the algae from the pool walls.
Get your pool cleaning equipment ready
Check and inspect your pool cleaning equipment. A basic tool kit should include a telescopic pole, a skimmer net, a vacuum head and hose, a nylon and wire brush, and a vacuum plate.
Get your pool chemicals ready
Make sure you have the correct chemicals available for balancing the water and keeping your pool disinfected, balanced and algae-free. Some chemicals you might consider are cal-Hypo or sodium chloride shock, muriatic acid, sodium bisulfate (dry acid), sodium bicarbonate, soda ash, calcium chloride, and algaecide.
Grab your swimsuits!
If your pool was designed and built by Bask Pools + Outdoors, then we know that you can hardly wait to dive back in once summer arrives! Whether you plan to kick back and relax under your custom stone grotto, or you want to swim up your personal poolside bar and grab a drink, our custom pool architects in Lafayette made sure you were covered when constructing your backyard oasis.
By following the steps in this blog, you can ensure that your pool will be as ready for summer swim sessions as you are. However, why would you spend your spring messing around with pumps, filters, and pool chemicals if you didn’t have to? Instead, you can simply call the experts at Bask Pools + Outdoors, where we offer comprehensive pool maintenance services to homeowners in Lafayette. We’ll handle all the prep work needed to have your pool ready by the first day of summer. All you have to do is contain your excitement!
Well, what are you waiting for? Bask Pools + Outdoors makes pool ownership easy and fun, so contact us today to prepare your pool for swim season!