It may not seem like it right now, but warmer weather is just around the corner, and as a pool owner, you understand the importance of getting the pool ready sooner rather than later. While many people think that the process is as simple as just putting clean water back into the pool, it is actually much more involved than that. Highlighted here are just a few of the steps that you need to take to ensure that your pool is up and running by Memorial Day.
Get Rid Of Dirt And Grime
The Northeast experiences particularly rough winters that often include a lot of snow, ice and rain. It isn’t unusual, then, to have a lot of buildup in the pool area. Leave the cover on and use a blower to get rid of any debris that is in the area. If there is water on the cover, get rid of it using a pump or a siphon. Taking a few extra minutes to ensure that the job is done properly will ultimately make the rest of the work easier.
Clean The Pool Well
Blowing off the area around the pool is a good start, but there is a lot more that needs to be done to get the pool ready to open. Put the filtration system back together (making sure to clean the filter), get rid of any plugs and give the baskets some attention as well.
Take Care Of The Cover
Take the cover off of the pool and set it to one side. If the water level in the pool is lower than expected, add to it to get it back where you want it. Next, turn your attention to the cover. It needs to be cleaned well before you store it. Car wash soap usually does the trick, although you’ll need to spend some time on it to make sure that you get the cover good and clean.
Allow the cover to dry thoroughly before you fold it up. The last thing you want is for any moisture to be on it before you store it for the summer. Once the cover is dry, put it in a plastic container for storage purposes. Doing so will keep it safe, not only from the elements, but also from bugs and rodents. Find a place for the storage bin inside your home or shed.
Get A Professional Involved
It is always a good idea to get your water tested by a professional before you open the pool for the season. In many cases, you can have this done for free. The test provides valuable information, telling you about the chlorine levels, overall alkalinity, mineral content and pH levels. The professional can then advise you on what needs to be tweaked to ensure the pool is safe and operates properly. Take that advice and balance your chemicals accordingly.
As soon as the weather starts to warm up, think about getting your pool ready for the summer season. Starting early ensures that you get as much swimming time as possible, and you avoid issues with algae and fungi. Don’t rush the process, though, as it is essential to clean the pool well so that it is safe for swimmers and stays in good working order.
Let our pool care professionals help you get your pool on track for the summer. Call us today to find out more.