How to Open Your Inground Pool in 13 Simple Steps: A Complete Guide from AQUASTRONG

As the weather warms up and the sun shines brighter, it’s the perfect time to get your inground pool ready for the season. While opening your pool might seem like a daunting task, it’s actually a simple process that, with the right tools and a little preparation, can be done in just a few steps. AQUASTRONG is here to guide you through the process of opening your inground pool, so you can enjoy clean, clear water all summer long.

1. Remove Debris from the Pool Cover

Before you do anything, it’s important to get rid of the debris that’s accumulated on top of your pool cover over the winter. Use a soft broom to sweep off any leaves or branches, and then use a pool cover pump to remove any standing water. This step will make it much easier to remove the cover without dragging debris into the pool.

Tip: Use an AQUASTRONG pool cover pump to get the job done quickly and efficiently. It’s important to understand the capabilities of your pump to avoid overloading it.

2. Take Off the Pool Cover

Now that the cover is free from debris and water, you can begin removing it. It helps to have an extra pair of hands for this job. Carefully fold the cover as you remove it to avoid dragging it over rough surfaces that could damage it.

Once the cover is removed, inspect it for any signs of damage. If it’s worn out or torn, it may be time to replace it before the next season.

3. Clean and Store the Pool Cover

With the cover off and folded, it’s time to clean it. Lay it out in a flat area to avoid getting cleaning products in the pool water. Use a mild pool cover cleaner or car wash soap and a soft broom to scrub the cover gently. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that could damage the fabric.

Once cleaned, rinse the cover thoroughly, dry it, and store it in a dry, pest-free area. Proper storage will help preserve your cover for future use.

4. Skim the Pool Surface

Before moving on to deeper cleaning tasks, use a skimmer to remove any floating debris that might have entered the pool during the cover removal. This will make it easier to focus on the rest of the cleaning process without worrying about large pieces clogging your filter system.

5. Remove Winterizing Plugs

If you winterized your pool with plugs to prevent water from freezing in the pipes, now’s the time to remove them. You should hear some bubbling sounds as water flows back into the pipes. Be sure to remove all the plugs from the skimmer and other equipment.

6. Reinstall Pool Equipment

Reinstall any equipment you removed for the winter, such as the pool ladder, diving board, or slide. If you removed any bolts or other small parts, lubricate them to ensure smooth functionality.

7. Add Water to the Pool

Your pool may have lost some water over the winter, so now it’s time to top it off. Use a garden hose to bring the water level back up to normal. A hose filter can help prevent contaminants and metals from entering your pool water.

8. Set Up and Run the Filter and Pump

With the water level adjusted, it’s time to get your filtration system up and running. Reinstall any plugs in the pump and filter and use AQUASTRONG’s high-quality gasket lubricant on the O-rings to protect them. Open your return valves, fill the pump basket with water, and turn on the system.

Tip: Make sure your pump is primed properly. If you notice a sudden spike in the pressure gauge, shut off the pump and check for blockages.

9. Prevent Metal Staining

Metal levels in your pool may rise after sitting stagnant over the winter. To avoid staining and scale buildup, add a metal sequestrant to your pool water. This will help prevent rust and staining caused by metals like iron and copper.

10. Balance Your Pool Water Chemistry

Once your filtration system is running, it’s time to balance the water chemistry. Test the water using AQUASTRONG’s pool test strips or bring a sample to a local pool supply store for a professional analysis. You may need to adjust the pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels to ensure safe and clean pool water.

11. Brush and Vacuum the Pool

It’s time to tackle any debris on the pool walls and floor. Use a pool brush to scrub the surfaces, helping to loosen any dirt or algae. Then, manually vacuum the pool to remove any sediment on the bottom.

12. Shock the Pool

Shocking your pool is one of the most important steps in opening it for the season. Pool shock helps to kill bacteria, algae spores, and other contaminants, ensuring that your pool water stays crystal clear. Double shocking your pool is highly recommended—use two pounds of shock for every 10,000 gallons of water.

Tip: Always wear protective gear when handling pool chemicals, including safety goggles and chemical-resistant gloves. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your pool or equipment.

13. Run the Filter System

Finally, leave your pool’s filtration system running for at least 24 hours. This will help mix the shock and filter out any remaining debris, bacteria, or dead algae. After a day of filtering, your pool should be sparkling clean and ready for a swim.

Safety First

Before you dive in, take a few final safety precautions:

• Rinse your pool deck to remove any spilled chemicals.
• Test the water again to ensure the chlorine levels and other chemical balances are correct.
• Inspect pool safety features like gates and alarms to make sure everything is functioning properly.
• Store your pool chemicals safely, out of reach of children and pets.

Conclusion

Opening your inground pool doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With AQUASTRONG’s helpful tips and quality products, you can easily prepare your pool for a fun, safe summer. By following these 13 steps, you’ll ensure that your pool is sparkling clean, chemically balanced, and ready for swimmers in no time.