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Summer is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to get your pool ready for the 2023 swimming season! Opening a pool doesn’t have to be intimidating or expensive.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to open a pool for the upcoming swimming season. From balancing the water to setting up the pool equipment, you’ll learn everything you need to know about how to open a pool for the 2023 season. Let’s get started!
How to Open a Pool for Swimming Season
Test your water
Before you open your pool for the 2023 swimming season, it’s important to test your water to ensure it is safe and healthy for swimmers. Start by testing the pH level, which should fall between 7.2 and 7.6. You can purchase test strips at any pool supply store. Additionally, you should test for total alkalinity, calcium hardness, and chlorine levels.
All three should fall between 80–140 ppm, 180–220 ppm, and 1-3 ppm respectively. If any of these levels are outside of the acceptable range, you should add the appropriate chemicals to adjust the levels. If the water is murky or has an unpleasant odor, it may be necessary to shock your pool before proceeding.
Most Commonly Used Pool Chemicals
– Chlorine: Used to disinfect and kill germs, bacteria, and algae.
– Algaecide: Used to prevent and eliminate algae.
– Shock: Used to break down any organic contaminants in the water.
– Phosphate Remover: Used to remove phosphates that can cause algae growth.
– Clarifier: Used to clarify the water, making it look clearer and brighter.
– pH Up/pH Down: Used to adjust the pH levels in the water.
If at any time you’re not comfortable with the steps we’ve provided about how to open a pool and you’re located on Long Island, don’t hesitate to give us a call at Gold Coast Swimming Pools today. We’re located in Glen Cove and can be reached at (516) 759-3000.
Clean your filter
One of the most important steps in prepping your pool for the 2023 swimming season is cleaning your filter. It’s essential to ensure your filter is clean before you start using it, as a dirty filter can cause an array of problems. To properly clean your filter, you’ll need to do the following:
• Remove the filter from its housing and disassemble it. Make sure you’re wearing protective gear such as goggles, gloves, and a face mask when handling the filter.
• Thoroughly rinse the filter’s parts with a garden hose. Make sure to pay close attention to any crevices or areas where debris may be stuck.
• If there are any tough areas that aren’t coming off easily, use a soft brush and a filter-safe cleaner to help loosen them.
• Once you’ve finished cleaning all the pieces, reassemble them according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
• Place the filter back into its housing, making sure it’s securely attached.
• Turn on the pump and run it for a few minutes to ensure that it’s working properly.
By taking the time to properly clean or replace your filter before using it, you’ll be able to ensure your pool is safe and ready for the swimming season.
Shock your pool
Adding chlorine shock to your pool is an important step in the pool opening process. Shocking your pool will help kill any bacteria or algae that may be present in the water. It is important to shock the pool at least once during the season to help keep your pool clean and safe for swimming.
Before you shock your pool, it is important to test the pH levels in your pool. The ideal pH level for your pool should be between 7.2 and 7.8. If the pH level is not within this range, use a pool pH increaser or decreaser to adjust the pH level before shocking.
Once your pH levels are in the desired range, you can shock your pool. Start by adding a bag of chlorine shock directly into the pool water. Allow the chlorine shock to mix in the water for 24-48 hours. During this time, it is important to keep the pump running to help circulate the water and distribute the chlorine evenly throughout the pool.
After 24-48 hours, test the chlorine levels in your pool. The chlorine levels should be between 1-3 ppm. If the chlorine level is not within this range, add another bag of chlorine shock to your pool. Repeat this process until your chlorine levels reach between 1-3 ppm.
Once you have reached the desired chlorine level, it is important to test and maintain the pH levels in your pool on a regular basis. This will ensure your pool remains clean and safe for swimming throughout the season.
Add algaecide
Algaecide is an important part of maintaining a safe, clean swimming pool. It helps to control and prevent the growth of algae that can be harmful to swimmers. Adding algaecide is the fourth step in opening your pool for the season.
When adding algaecide, use the recommended dosage for your size and type of pool as indicated by the manufacturer’s instructions. You may need to adjust the dosage depending on your local conditions and how much algae growth you have in your pool. It is best to wait a few days after shocking before adding algaecide, so it has time to do its job without interference from other chemicals.
To add algaecide, start by filling a bucket with water from the pool and add the appropriate amount of algaecide. Using a brush or stir stick, mix the algaecide thoroughly. Once mixed, pour the algaecide solution into different areas of the pool, away from the skimmers. Make sure to spread the solution out evenly throughout the water to get the best results.
After adding algaecide, run the filter pump for 24-48 hours to ensure it is distributed throughout the water. It is important to monitor your pool’s chlorine levels after adding algaecide, as it can reduce chlorine levels over time. If necessary, shock your pool again if the chlorine level drops too low.
Algaecide should be used regularly throughout the swimming season to help keep algae growth at bay. Following these steps will help you open your pool for the swimming season safely and effectively.
Balance your pH levels
Balancing the pH level of your pool is an important step in preparing it for the swimming season. The ideal pH level of a swimming pool should be between 7.2 and 7.6. Maintaining this range will keep your pool sanitary and comfortable for swimmers.
Testing your pool’s pH levels is simple. Use a pool testing kit to check the pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels in your pool water. This can be done with a drop-based test or a continuous digital monitor. To make the test more accurate, check multiple spots in the pool.
If the results indicate that your pH levels are off, it’s time to take corrective measures. If the pH level is too high, you’ll need to add a pH decreaser, which usually comes in the form of a liquid or dry acid product. Follow the instructions on the product to add the correct amount of product to your pool. It’s best to use a skimmer or a sock to distribute the product evenly throughout the pool. Make sure to wear gloves and safety goggles when handling chemicals.
To raise pH levels, use a pH increaser or alkalinity increaser. These products come in liquid or dry form. Again, make sure to read the instructions carefully and wear protective gear when handling them. Adding too much of either product can cause damage to the pool equipment and surfaces, so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely.
Wait at least 24 hours after adding either type of product before checking your pH levels again. Then, use the testing kit to check if the pH levels are within the acceptable range. If not, adjust as needed by adding more of the appropriate product until the pH is balanced correctly.
By following these steps and regularly checking and adjusting your pH levels, you can make sure your pool is ready for friends and family to enjoy.
Run your pump
One of the most important steps in preparing your pool for swimming season is running your pump. This ensures that your pool’s water is being circulated and that all the chemicals you’ve added are mixed and evenly distributed throughout. The best way to run your pump is to set it up so it runs at least 8 hours a day, preferably in two four-hour cycles during the day. This will help ensure that your pool water is properly filtered and balanced throughout the day.
When running your pump, it’s important to keep an eye on your filter pressure gauge. If the pressure increases over 10 psi, this could indicate that the filter needs cleaning or backwashing. If the pressure continues to increase and the filter doesn’t seem to be doing its job, it may be time to replace it.
You should also check the pool pump strainer basket for any debris or leaves that may have collected over the winter months. It’s important to clear these out before running your pump as they can clog up the plumbing system if left unattended.
Finally, once you’re done running your pump for the day, remember to turn it off. Running your pump all day every day can waste energy and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the pump motor.
Conclusion
Opening a pool for the 2023 swimming season may seem like a daunting task, but following these steps will help ensure you get the most out of your pool. With the right supplies and regular maintenance, you can enjoy your pool all summer long. If you’re still unsure about how to open a pool and need help along the way, consider reaching out to Gold Coast Swimming Pools located in Glen Cove, Long Island. We offer a variety of pool maintenance and repair services and stock a wide selection of pool covers, chemicals, and other supplies needed to keep your pool in tip-top shape. For more information, call (516) 759-3000.