Wondering how to get your pool ready for summer? This guide covers all the key steps before you open your pool for summer: cleaning your pool, checking equipment, and balancing water chemistry. Follow along as we dive deeper into the details of how to get your pool ready for the summer, and contact KustomScapes & Pools, LLC. to get the oasis of your dreams!
Preparing the Pool Area
Before addressing how to open a pool for the season, tidy up the surrounding area. Remove debris from the patio, plant beds, and pool deck to keep dirt and leaves out of the pool, ensuring a clean and safe environment. Using a soft broom or garden hose can effectively clear away debris and keep the area neat. Remember to sweep and hose down the pool deck and patio regularly. This simple task not only maintains cleanliness but also enhances the overall appearance of your backyard oasis. Maintaining a clean pool area prevents unwanted dirt from contaminating your pool water.
Inspecting and Cleaning Your Pool
Once the pool cover is off, it’s time to inspect your swimming pool for any damage or wear that might have occurred during the off-season. Look for cracks, tears, or other issues on the pool walls and floor. Also, check the skimmer baskets and other equipment for signs of damage that may have covered the surfaces.
Start by scrubbing the pool walls and steps with a stiff brush to dislodge any algae or dirt buildup.
Vacuum the pool bottom to remove debris from corners and crevices.
Use a leaf skimmer to remove leaves and floating debris before deeper cleaning.
Routinely check and clean your pool’s skimmer and pump baskets. This helps keep the pool water clean and reduces strain on the equipment. Vacuum the pool floor and walls with a pool vacuum to remove dirt, sand, and algae, ensuring a clean swimming environment.
Removing and Storing the Pool Cover
Begin preparing your inground pool for summer by draining standing water from the cover with a pool cover pump and removing debris. Clean the cover with car wash soap or a pool cover cleaner, treating any stains as needed. Let it dry completely to prevent mold. Then, fold it neatly and store it in a cool, dry place to protect it for next season.
Filling Your Pool
After reinstalling the equipment, fill your pool. Fill the pool with a garden hose until it reaches the normal operating level, typically around the middle of the skimmer openings. Monitor the pool as it fills to check for any leaks or issues with the pool liner or walls. While adding water, ensure the water level remains consistent and doesn’t drop due to leaks. Maintaining the water level is essential for the pool’s structural integrity and the proper functioning of the pump and filter. To maintain the right balance, remember to add water as needed.
Key Takeaways: Getting Your Inground Pool Ready for Summer
Having an inground pool is the ultimate luxury, but it also requires a bit of preparatory work before the fun can begin. Luckily, our experts know just how to get your pool ready for summer.
Take Care of Your Pool Cover: The first step is to remove your pool cover and ensure it is free of debris before storing it in a dry place.
Pristine Pool Water: If your pool is already filled, you can clean the water by using a pool vacuum to catch any unwanted debris.
Focus On Your Filter: Performing an inspection of your pool filter is one of the most important steps in how to get your pool ready for the summer. Be sure to check the gauges and cartridges. You should also check your pool pump and confirm it is running smoothly.
Put it to the Test: Now’s the time to literally test the waters! Check the chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and calcium levels of your pool water to ensure it is safe for swimming. If you need some professional help to determine the levels of your pool water, speak with our team, and we’ll be happy to assist you!
Shock Your Water: Shocking your water is an important step in how to get your pool ready for the summer. It involves putting a high dosage of chlorine in the water to kill off harmful bacteria, algae, or unwanted particles that could have been sitting in there during the fall and winter seasons.
Checking and Priming the Pool Pump
Before using your pool pump, check for leaks or wear to ensure it's in good working order. Prime it by turning off the power, clearing the lid, filling the pump with water, sealing the lid, and turning it back on. It should prime within 1–20 seconds; if not, check for air leaks. Maintain proper water levels and clean the pump and filter regularly for optimal performance.
Testing and Balancing Pool Water Chemistry
Balancing your pool water chemistry maintains water quality. Test chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels to ensure safe swimming. Frequent testing keeps water clear and safe. Adjust total alkalinity to 80-120 ppm to prevent corrosion. Maintain free chlorine levels between 1-3 ppm for effective sanitation. Maintain cyanuric acid levels between 35-60 ppm to stabilize chlorine. After making these adjustments, wait at least six hours before retesting the water to ensure accurate results. Pre-dissolving pool shock in water before adding it to the pool helps ensure even distribution. Regular testing and chemical adjustments keep the pool water balanced and safe.
Shocking the Pool Water
Shocking the pool kills bacteria and algae, keeping the water safe and clear. Use a high dose of chlorine or non-chlorine shock, wearing goggles and gloves, and ensure no one is swimming. Wait the recommended time before reentering. Regular shocking, especially after heavy use or rain, helps maintain a safe and enjoyable pool all season.
Running the Filtration System
Your pool’s filtration system is key to clear, clean water. Run it for 24–48 hours after opening the pool and after shocking. Monitor water flow in the skimmer and return lines, and check for leaks around the pump, filter, and plumbing. Backwash the filter regularly to maintain efficiency and ensure a clean, inviting pool.
Final Water Test and Adjustments
After running the filtration system, it’s essential to conduct a final water test using pool test kits to ensure all chemical levels are balanced and the water is safe for swimming. This step confirms that the shocking treatment was adequate and that the filter run has made the water clear and inviting. Ensure the pH level is between 7.4 and 7.6, and adjust chemical levels as needed. This final check ensures your pool is ready for a summer full of fun and relaxation.
Maintaining Your Pool During the Season
Regular pool maintenance during the swimming season keeps the pool ready and enjoyable. To keep the water safe and clear, test it at least two to three times a week. Shock the pool regularly, especially after heavy use or rain, to maintain clear water and prevent contamination. Adding chemicals to balance the water protects surfaces and equipment, ensuring a safer swimming experience with pool chemicals. Properly maintaining pool equipment, such as the pump and filter, ensures they function efficiently throughout the season. Regular pool area cleaning prevents debris and algae buildup, keeping your backyard oasis inviting and ready for a swim.
Trusted Pool Maintenance
Don’t feel like handling all the pool maintenance yourself? No problem—we’ve got you covered. We’re proud to offer custom maintenance packages tailored to your needs, so you can enjoy a clean, safe pool without the hassle. Our swimming pool maintenance services in Maryland include flexible options such as weekly, monthly, and yearly maintenance plans, as well as chemical treatments and pool opening and closing services. Whether you need routine upkeep or seasonal support, our expert team is here to help keep your pool in top shape.
Keep Your Pool Pristine
Preparing your pool for the summer involves several crucial steps, from clearing the pool area to balancing the water chemistry. By following this guide, you’ll ensure your pool is not only clean and safe but also a perfect spot for relaxation and fun. Regular maintenance from KustomScapes & Pools throughout the season will keep your pool in top shape and ready for spontaneous swims or planned pool parties. Dive in and enjoy your backyard oasis!
