The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the temperature is finally climbing. All these signs of spring tell you it’s time to open your pool! You’re just a few steps away from another season of backyard fun, so let’s get started.

Step 1: Clean the Pool Area

Take a few minutes to freshen up the pool deck and surrounding area. After all, you don’t want to uncover your pool only to have stray leaves, pine needles, and twigs blown into the water.

Tidy up vegetation: Trees and bushes may have collected debris over the winter. Tidy them up to reduce the risk of trash ending up in your pool.
Sweep the deck and patio: Dust, dirt, and leaves have a way of piling up during the off-season. Sweep or power wash the area to create a clean, safe environment.
Check your pool accessories: Inspect ladders, diving boards, handrails, and deck furniture for winter damage. Tighten bolts, clean surfaces, and make repairs if necessary.

Step 2: Remove and Store the Pool Cover

Your winter safety pool cover performed well these past few months, but now it’s time to take it off and store it properly.

Clear off debris: Use a pool cover pump to remove standing water. Then, grab a soft broom or leaf blower to clear off leaves, dirt, and other debris.
Carefully remove the cover: With a helper, slowly pull the cover off, doing your best to prevent leftover debris from falling into the pool. Don’t worry if a little dirt gets in—you’ll be cleaning the pool soon anyway.
Clean the cover: Lay the cover flat, hose it down, and scrub away stubborn grime. Let it dry completely before folding it up. If you store it damp, you could end up with mold and mildew.
Store the cover properly: Fold it neatly, place it in a storage bag or container, and store it in a cool, dry place.

Step 3: Reconnect Pool Equipment

If you winterized your pool properly, you likely disconnected some equipment before closing it for the season. Now, it’s time to put everything back in place.

Reinstall drain plugs: If you removed drain plugs from the pump, filter, heater, or other equipment, put them back.
Reconnect hoses and pipes: Reattach all hoses, return lines, and plumbing connections.
Inspect for damage: Check all equipment for cracks, leaks, or wear and tear. Replace worn parts now to prevent headaches later.

Step 4: Remove Winterizing Plugs and Add Water

Prepare the skimmers, return lines, and the pool itself with a few critical steps.

Remove winterizing plugs: If you used winterizing plugs in the skimmers and return lines, take them out now.
Remove ice compensators: If you placed an ice compensator in your skimmer to prevent freezing damage, remove it.
Refill the pool: Your water level likely dropped over the winter. Use a garden hose to bring it back up to the middle of the skimmer or the center of your waterline tile.

Step 5: Turn On the Filtration System

Now that everything is reconnected and the water level is where it should be, it’s time to get the water circulating.

Prime the pump: If your pump doesn’t have water in it, it won’t be able to create suction. Fill the pump basket with water before turning it on.
Start the pump and filter: Once the pump is primed, switch it on and check for leaks, unusual noises, or irregular water flow.
Run the system: Let the filter run for at least 12 to 24 hours to circulate the water and begin clearing out contaminants.

Step 6: Clean the Pool

Even with the best pool cover, some debris probably found its way into the water. Now, it’s time to get it looking pristine.

Skim the surface: Remove leaves, twigs, and other floating debris with a skimmer net.
Brush the walls and floor: Algae and dirt like to cling to pool surfaces, especially after months of inactivity. Scrub everything with a pool brush to loosen the buildup.
Vacuum the pool: This step removes dirt and debris from the bottom of the pool. Complete the job using a manual vacuum or automatic pool cleaner.

Step 7: Test and Balance the Water

Properly balanced water prevents algae growth and keeps your pool safe for swimming.

Test the water: Check the pH and alkalinity using a pool testing kit.
Adjust chemical levels: If necessary, add chemicals to balance the water, starting with alkalinity. The total alkalinity should be between 80 and 120 ppm. Add dry acid if it’s too high or an alkalinity increaser if it’s too low. The pH level should be between 7.4 and 7.6. Add pH decreaser if it’s too high or pH increaser if it’s too low.
Shock the pool: A good shock treatment kills bacteria, algae, and other contaminants. Follow the product instructions for the correct amount based on your pool size. Let the water circulate for at least two hours.
Test the chlorine level: Ideally, it should be between 1 and 4 ppm. Slightly higher than this is okay, but lower is not. If the chlorine has still not reached at least 1 ppm, add more shock to get the level up.
Keep the pump running: The pool chemicals need time to finish their work. Let your pool filter run on high overnight to circulate everything properly.

Step 8: Add Specialty Pool Chemicals

Before officially opening your pool, use more chemicals to keep the water clean and inviting.

Add clarifiers: If the water is still cloudy after running the filter overnight, add clarifiers to clump tiny particles together and make your filter’s job easier. Run the circulation system for a few hours and clean the filter as needed to keep the water circulating well.
Perform algae control: Add a dose of algaecide the day after shocking the pool to prevent algae growth. Let the water circulate for at least two hours before moving on to the next step.
Add enzymes: Enzymes break down oils and organic contaminants to help chlorine work more efficiently. Let the pump run continuously for 48 hours after adding them.

Final Step: Get Ready to Swim!

The hard work is done, and your pool is open for the season! Now, it’s time to grab your floats, stock up on sunscreen, and enjoy a well-earned swim.

Need Help? Trust Aaron Pools and Spas

Opening your pool doesn’t have to be a hassle. Trust Aaron Pools and Spas for expert advice, premium supplies, or a custom-designed pool and patio. We have provided top-quality pool construction and products to the Boston area since 1972. Trust us as your one-stop shop for all your pool-related needs. Contact us today, and we’ll help you make this pool season the best one yet!

Spring Is Here! A Step-by-Step Guide to Opening Your Pool