How to Open Your Swimming Pool Yourself

Before removing the pool cover, clear debris so it doesn't end up in the pool.

Open your own swimming pool this year to save yourself money. If you usually depend on a pool professional to get your family in the swim, dive in and clear, clean, inspect and treat the pool to save money and learn more about how to maintain your swimming pool. Once the pool is clear, sparkling and tempting to children, change the batteries and test your pool alarm, if you have one, and make sure gates lock securely.

Things You'll Need

• Pool chemicals.
• Pool water test kit.

Instructions

1. Remove the pool cover. Drain any water that has collected in the cover. Use a leaf blower or a broom to clear away leaves and branches. If you have a safety cover, you need a removal tool to remove each spring-loaded tie down screw.

2. Reconnect the pool equipment. If you turned off the power breaker to the pool pump and heater, reset the circuit. Reattach the filtration hoses and open all valves. Place the filter cartridge or clean sand into your filter. Follow manufacturer's guidelines to prepare your pump, filter and heater for the swimming season. Lubricate all o-rings with water-based lubricant, free the skimmer basket and remove all winterizing plugs.

3. Add water until 3/4 of the skimmer is covered. If you pay for city or municipal water, call the billing department to ask if they offer a pool fill-up discount. Most water departments charge wastewater fees based on your water usage. Since pool water evaporates and does not have to go through the municipal water treatment system, they may offer a once-a-year reprieve on your bill for a pool fill up.

4. Clean the pool once it is filled. Make sure you properly prime the pump before starting and use a pool vacuum and allow the skimmer to work for a few hours. Chemicals are much more effective if the pool is clear of debris.

5. Adjust the water pH and alkalinity levels. The pH level must be between 7.2 and 7.6. If the pH reading is not correct, try using a pH increaser or pH reducer. To keep your pool's pH from fluctuating, maintain an alkalinity level of 80 to120 parts per million.

6. Shock your pool to treat and oxidize your pool water. Most pool shock chemicals require application at a rate of 1 pound per 10,000 gallons.

7. Allow the chlorine or bromine level to reach a normal range. The chlorine level must read between 1 and 3 ppm and bromine must be between 2 and 4 ppm Consider adding clarifier to make the water more clear. Prevent algae with an algaecide and get help maintaining the chlorine level with a stabilizer.

Tips & Warnings

• To extend the life of your pool cover, remove dirt with a mild soap and rinse with your garden hose. Prior to storing the pool cover, let it dry completely.

References

• Prescott News; Get That Pool Ready For Summer; Rosie Romero