Summer is here and the heat is on.  It's the perfect time to dive into that glistening pool and cool off.  But wait!  Did you properly open your pool this spring?  If you did, you are on the right track.  If you didn't, Wally Warrantech has a few tips that will help you open your pool the right way and some suggestions for ongoing maintenance to keep your pool equipment running strong all summer long.  So let's get started!

Opening Your Pool

To start off, make sure that everything is clean and working properly.  Clean out the filter and if necessary, replace the filter cartridge and the sand or media, depending on the type of filter you have.  Also, remember to clean out the leaf basket on the pump.

Be sure to keep an pen and paper handy so you can make a list of any parts that are broken.  Also, write down the make and model number of your filter and pump so that if you do have to go to the store, you can quickly get any parts you may need.

Once everything is cleaned up, it is time to sanitize the pool.  Chlorine is the most popular choice, but there are many different types of sanitizers available.  Also, remember to shock your pool as part of the opening.  This makes sure that any algae or bacteria are killed before you go paddling about.  The amounts of shocks, chlorines and other sanitizers will differ depending on location, pool size, frequency of use etc.  Check the label on the product or ask a local pool company for advice.

Now that the equipment is clean and the water is sanitized, you should be pretty much good to go.  Just in case, here is a list of all of the things that should be done to properly open a pool:

Drain water and remove leaves from top of pool cover (if applicable)

Inspect and clean filter and pump.

Fill the pool with the cover on (if applicable)

Shock the pool, scrub the sides and the bottom

Filter continuously for a couple days, back-washing as needed to keep the filter clean.  Scrub as needed to remove left over algae build-up.

Shut the pump off to allow any dead algae to settle overnight.  Vacuum the next day and begin filtering again.  Vacuum any waste to avoid reintroducing algae back into the pool.

Adust the chlorine levels to maintain 1.0 ppm and pH to 7.2-7.6.  Add clarifier.  Keep filtering for 24 hours.

Add algaecide and monitor pool every couple of day for chlorine use, pH level and clarity.  Remember to only add chlorine at night.  Adjust filtering times to keep the pool clear.  Ideally, you should filter the pool for 8-10 hours a day all summer long.

Regular Maintenance

The following things should be done weekly to maintain your pool:

Completely backwash the filter.

Test the water for Chlorine, pH and Alkalinity.

Add Chlorine as required.

Vacuum the pool floor and walls as needed.

Shock the pool if necessary.

Check and adjust the water level.  Water should be half way up the skimmers.

It is also a good idea to have a pool company come out and evaluate the pool system about once a month during the season.  This way, they can make sure that everything is running to its specifications and test the water for any abnormalities.

If you have a home warranty through Warrantech, it is even easier to locate a reputable pool company.  Just call 1-800-723-1496 and one of our courteous representatives will be happy to recommend a company in your area.