Before opening your backyard swimming pool, there are several tasks that need to be completed in order to have a smooth start to the swimming season.
As you begin to gear up for the impending swim season, it’s important to ensure that your backyard swimming pool is, in fact, ready for action. Opening your pool can be a time-consuming process, but with a little know-how and some careful preparation, you can easily streamline the process and have your pool swim-ready in record time.
Read along below as we outline the essential tasks you should complete before opening your backyard swimming pool—and ensure a smooth and efficient start to the swim season.
Test Your Pool Pump
Your pool pump is a crucial component of your swimming pool, responsible for circulating water and keeping it clean and clear. Before opening your pool, it’s important to test your pool pump to make sure it’s in good working condition. Remove winter plugs from inside the pool, set multiport valves to “filter,” reattach the pump’s drain plug if it was removed, and replace the pool pump basket and skimmer basket. Power on your pool pump and let it run for 30 minutes, checking for any leaks or unusual behavior. If your pump doesn’t start right away, you may need to prime it by unscrewing the pump lid, pouring in a five-gallon bucket of pool water or using a hose to fill the plumbing line from the pool skimmer to the pump, and then powering on the pump.
…And Test Your Pool Heater
If you have a pool heater, it’s essential to test it before opening your pool. With your pool pump running, power on your pool heater and check the starting pool temperature being displayed. Wait two or three hours, then check for an increase in temperature (ideally indicating that the heat pump is working as expected). And hey, why not take this opportunity to inspect your pool heater for any debris or damage to the vents, pump housing, or display board? If you encounter any issues with your pool heater, such as strange noises or, well, it just not wanting to turn on… it’s time to consider contacting a pool repair company for the assist.
Inspect Your Filter and PSI
As your pool water warms up and circulates, it’s important to inspect your filter and pressure gauge. Your pressure gauge should read close to the clean reading for your pool, typically between 5 and 15 psi. If it’s out of range, it may indicate that your pump is overworking, likely due to an issue with your filter. To troubleshoot high PSI, power down your pump, relieve pressure in the filter by turning the pressure release valve counter-clockwise, remove your filter’s drain plug, and unscrew the filter lid/filter head. Check the filter’s middle O-ring for wear then clean/refill/replace your sand filter, cartridge filter, and/or DE filter as needed. If the issue yet persists, -once again, it’s best to contact a pool repair company for further assistance.
Clean and Inspect Your Pool Deck
While most of the attention is focused on the pool and pool system, it’s important not to neglect your pool deck. Your pool deck receives just as much foot traffic as your pool, if not more, and requires regular maintenance to keep it in good condition. Before opening your pool, inspect your pool deck for any cracks, movement, stains, or discoloration. Check for any bugs or wasp nests that may have taken up residence on your pool deck, and inspect the condition of your patio or pool furniture. Clean up any leaves, twigs, or debris that may have accumulated on your pool deck, and consider pressure washing or resealing your deck for added protection and durability.
Closing (Opening) Thoughts
Incorporating these tasks into your pool opening routine will help you save time and ensure that your pool is ready for swimming as soon as possible—and isn’t as much of a chore as it may seem on a cursory reading. By staying vigilant and addressing any issues early on, it’s highly likely that you’ll prevent further damage and be all set for another perfect pool season. Just remember, before you dive back in, do take the time to complete these essential tasks—and get your backyard swim zone ready for a summer of fun in the sun, pool people!
Do You Have More Questions About Spas? Ask Sunrise Premiere Pool Builders LLC
If you still have questions about how to build a brand new swimming pool, Sunrise Premiere Pool Builders LLC is here to help you. At Sunrise Pools, we can build and install your pool, spa, or hot tub and provide you with pool chemicals, services, and more. If you have questions, feel free to give us a call at 410-349-3852. To see more from us and for tips and tricks, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.