10 Essential Steps to Opening Your Inground Pool for the Season

As the warmer months approach, it’s time to prepare your inground pool for the upcoming swimming season. A systematic approach ensures that your pool is clean, safe, and ready for summer fun. In this article, we’ll guide you through 10 essential steps to open your inground pool, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

  1. Remove the Pool Cover

Start by carefully removing the pool cover, avoiding debris or water from entering the pool. Clean the cover thoroughly, let it dry, and store it in a cool, dry place until needed again.

  1. Inspect and Reinstall Pool Accessories

Examine pool accessories like ladders, handrails, and diving boards for damage or wear. Reinstall these items, ensuring they are securely fastened and safe for use.

  1. Reconnect Pool Equipment


Reconnect your pool’s pump, filter, and heater, following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Ensure that all connections are tight and free of leaks. If you’ve stored the pool equipment indoors, move it back outside and reconnect it as needed.

  1. Fill the Pool

Using a garden hose, fill the pool to the appropriate water level, typically halfway up the skimmer opening.

  1. Test and Balance Water Chemistry

Test your pool water for pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels. Adjust the water chemistry as needed, using appropriate chemicals to achieve the recommended balance: pH 7.4-7.6, alkalinity 80-120 ppm, calcium hardness 200-400 ppm, and free chlorine 2-4 ppm.

  1. Prime the Pump and Start the Filtration System

Turn the multiport valve to the “filter” setting and prime the pool pump by filling it with water. Turn on the pump and allow it to run, ensuring that the filtration system is functioning correctly. Circulate the water for at least 8-12 hours to thoroughly mix the chemicals and filter out any impurities.

  1. Vacuum and Brush the Pool

Using a pool vacuum, clean the pool’s bottom and sides to remove debris, algae, and other contaminants. Follow up by brushing the pool’s walls, steps, and corners with a pool brush to dislodge any remaining dirt or algae.

  1. Shock the Pool

“Shocking” the pool involves adding a high dose of chlorine to eliminate bacteria, algae, and other organic contaminants. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the shock product, ensuring the proper dosage based on your pool’s volume. Allow the pump and filter to run overnight to circulate the shock treatment.

  1. Check and Clean the Pool Filter

Inspect your pool filter, whether it’s a sand, cartridge, or DE filter, and clean or replace it as needed. A clean filter is essential for maintaining water quality throughout the swimming season.

  1. Install Pool Safety Equipment

Before diving into the pool season, ensure all safety equipment, such as pool alarms, fences, and self-closing gates, is in good working order. This step is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring a safe swimming environment for everyone.

Conclusion

Opening your inground pool for the season requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following these 10 essential steps, you can ensure a clean, safe, and enjoyable pool experience for the entire summer. Regular maintenance and periodic water testing will keep your pool in top condition, allowing you and your family to make the most of those sunny days ahead.