How to Open Your Pool for the Season

February 21, 2024 , Mitch Meyer

Welcome back, pool lovers! As the sun starts to work its magic and the temperatures rise, it's time to dust off those swim trunks and get ready to make a splash. If your swimming pool has been hibernating over the winter, fear not! We've got your back with a 6-step guide to bring it back to life and make it the coolest spot in the neighborhood.

Note: these steps are for chlorine pools, both in-ground and above-ground.

Step 1: Uncover the Treasure

First things first, it's time to unveil your pool for all to see. If you've been diligent enough to cover your pool during the winter, give yourself a high-five! Before taking the cover off, clear it of any water and waste. If there’s a lot of work to do here, consider using a pool cover pump or sump pump, and a leaf blower. Then, when the coast is clear, remove that cover gently and store it away for the next chilly season. Admire the clarity or steel yourself for what lies beneath – either way, the adventure begins!

Step 2: Skim and Scoop

Mother Nature might have left a little gift in your pool over the winter – leaves, twigs, and the occasional wayward raccoon toy. Grab your trusty pool skimmer and scoop up the debris like a pro. A cleaner canvas means less work down the line, and you’ll be ready to make a splash in no time. If your water level has dropped, don't forget to fill your pool to normal.

Step 3: Total Alkalinity

No, we're not asking you to dip a toe just yet! Use a reliable pool water testing kit to check the Total Alkalinity (TA) level. TA stabilizes your pH, making it much easier to keep pH in check and prevent the burning eyes that accompany a rise in acidity. TA levels of 100-150 parts per million (ppm) are recommended, so follow the instructions on our Alkalinity Multiplier to raise your water’s level.

Step 4: pH BOOST

Next we’re onto the aforementioned pH! With our partner in crime, Total Alkalinity in check, pH levels are prime for the balancing. Again relying on our water test results, adjust pH by adding sodium carbonate like our pH BOOSTER. You’ll want to shoot for a pH level of 7.4-7.6, so follow the product instructions for more specifics on how much to add. Over halfway home now!

Step 5: Shock Alert!

Once the basics are in check, it's time for a shock treatment – for your pool, not your nerves! A pool shock, or superchlorination, helps break down contaminants, bacteria, and algae that might have taken residence over the winter. Simply put, your pool’s chlorine level is much too low for safe swimming. Nothing some shock can’t take care of!

After the sun has set at night, it’s time for a double dose of shock. Add 2 pounds of pool shock for every 10,000 gallons of pool water. This will ensure the shock has time to take effect and increase your chlorine levels before the sunlight burns it off. You’re shooting for a chlorine level between 1.0-3.0 ppm, then you’ll be safe to swim ‘til your heart’s content! If you’re a bit low, try adding chlorine tablets directly.

Step 6: Retest Just in Case

Now that your aquatic oasis is sparkling clean and clear, you’re ready to dive in! Just one last thing; retest your chemical levels to double check. As a reminder, what you’re looking for is:

Total Alkalinity: 100-150ppm
pH: 7.4-7.6
Chlorine: 1.0-3.0ppm

As long as your pool is within these ranges, you’re all set! If anything is off, just add a bit more of the relevant chemical and follow the detailed instructions on the product label.

Happy Swimming!

And there you have it – your very own pool reawakening! With a bit of elbow grease and a splash of chemistry, you'll be doing cannonballs and perfecting your synchronized swimming routine in no time. Cheers to another pool season filled with sun-soaked memories and the unmistakable scent of sunscreen in the air. Dive in and make a splash, you pool connoisseur, you!