It is not uncommon for new homeowners to find that they must now carry out chores that they are wholly unfamiliar with, such as taking care of a spa or an inground or above ground pool. The maintenance required may appear daunting to the uninitiated!
But don’t worry if this is the first time you’ve had to look after a pool: it’s not as hard as it seems! Here are some tips to get the pool working again every year when spring returns.
1. Get Ready as Soon as Possible
This process, commonly called “opening the pool,” must be carried out each spring as early as possible in the season. The reason for this haste is that bacteria will proliferate as the temperature rises. You will want to get to work before the water temperature reaches 21 °C. So, add this task to your to-do list around mid-April (or as soon as all the snow has melted)!
2. Get Your Tools Together
Assemble everything you need to get the job done. Stopping midway through because you are missing a piece of equipment is an unnecessary waste of time! You will require a hose, a pump to remove the water accumulated atop the winter cover, a leaf skimmer, cleaning products for the liner and stairs, rags and a brush, pool silicone sealant, and a water test kit. Having everything you need on hand will save you extra trips to the pool supply store. Additionally, you will need to give the water a choc chemical treatment. Purchase enough for pool maintenance throughout the summer.
3. Start by Cleaning
But where to begin? By cleaning!
- The first step is to remove the winter pool cover and scrub it down with soapy water. To avoid any odours, let it dry completely before putting away for summer.
- Then use the skimmer to scoop up all the leaves and other debris that has fallen into the pool.
- Scrub and wash the lining as well as around the pool’s perimeter.
- Clean the bottom of the pool with the pool vacuum, emptying the filter basket often during this step.
- Pour in the chemicals for the choc treatment. To obtain the correct combination, check which types you need for the pool model and system you own with your pool’s retailer.
4. Inspect the Pool to Uncover Any Issues
Once everything is spic and span, walk around the pool’s perimeter to make sure there are no leaks. Look for a lower than usual water level. You should likewise check that the lining is properly attached and in good condition, and that the equipment is in place and in working order. Examine the ladder, steps, lights, and diving board (if you have one) to ensure they are safe to use.
5. Backwashing
Once all these steps have been completed, it’s time for the backwash, which involves reversing the water flow direction. This is done to expel the waste that has accumulated in the pipes, sending the dirty water down the sewers. At this point there will be some water loss; get the water level back up through the centre of the filter. Let the pump run for as long as the water remains cloudy.
6. Analyze the Pool Water
Monitor your pool water’s alkalinity, pH, hardness, and chlorine levels using a home water test kit or by bringing a sample to your pool retailer. Maintain proper levels to prevent algae development in your water: this would certainly put a damper on a day of swimming!
By following these simple steps, you will be able to enjoy your residential pool all summer long. However, don’t forget that a pool or spa requires daily maintenance to keep it working properly and to ensure that the water remains healthy.