Summer is just around the corner, and there’s nothing quite like the first swim of the season in a crystal-clear pool. But if you’ve opened your pool cover only to find murky water or debris, you know the importance of proper preparation.
At Cool Pools, we’ve helped hundreds of Treasure Valley families get their pools summer-ready. Here’s our complete guide to ensure your pool is safe, clean, and inviting all season long.
Step 1: Remove the Cover and Clean Up
Start by carefully removing your winter pool cover. Have a helper on hand — covers can be heavy and awkward. Clean the cover before storing it to prevent mold and mildew. Sweep or vacuum any debris that has collected on the pool floor.
Step 2: Inspect All Equipment
Before adding any water or chemicals, do a thorough inspection of:
- Pump: Check for cracks, leaks, or unusual noises
- Filter: Clean or replace cartridges; backwash DE or sand filters
- Heater: Inspect for corrosion or gas leaks
- Lights and electrical: Ensure all connections are safe and working
Pro tip: If you notice anything unusual, call a professional before you start filling the pool.
Step 3: Fill and Balance Water Chemistry
Once your equipment checks out, fill the pool to the proper level. Test the water and adjust:
- pH: 7.4 – 7.6 (ideal range)
- Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm
- Calcium Hardness: 200 – 400 ppm
- Chlorine: 1 – 3 ppm
- Cyanuric Acid: 30 – 50 ppm
Use a high-quality test kit and make adjustments gradually. Add chemicals one at a time, allowing the pump to circulate for several hours between additions.
Step 4: Shock the Pool
After balancing, shock the pool to eliminate any bacteria or algae that may have developed over winter. Use a calcium hypochlorite shock and follow the manufacturer’s dosage instructions. Run the pump continuously for 24 hours.
Step 5: Brush and Vacuum
Give your pool a thorough brushing — walls, steps, corners, and the waterline. This removes biofilm and algae that might still be clinging to surfaces. Vacuum the pool to remove debris.
Step 6: Run the System and Monitor
Now it’s time to let the system run. Check your water chemistry daily for the first week until everything stabilizes. Monitor the pump pressure and filter performance.
Need help? We offer full pool opening services. We’ll handle everything from cover removal to chemical balancing so you can just relax and enjoy your pool.