Swimming Pool Chemicals
Now that warm weather is approching, it’s time to think about opening the pool for the season. The first thing you must do is remove the pool cover. If there are leaves or other debris on the pool cover, use your leaf net to remove them. Then pump off any standing water if you have a solid pool cover. Note: if your pool cover has a hole in it, you will be pumping water out of the pool. This can lead to draining the pool if you do not watch for this. After removing the pool cover, be sure to clean it, let it dry, and store for the season.
You will need to add water, bringing the level up to its normal operating level. Remove any freeze plugs, Gizzmo’s, and other items installed to protect against freezing.
You should have cleaned your filter thoroughly when you closed the pool for the winter. If not, you should do it now. Now, start your filter system up, being sure to prime the pump before starting the motor. Be sure to purge all the air from the plumbing and equipment. Warning: Air will be compressed during this procedure. Be sure to release any built up pressure before opening your filter, pump, or chemical feeder. Check for any leaks.
Now, let’s assess the pool itself. Hopefully, you had a solid cover on and the water is as clear and blue as when you closed it. If not, you will want to remove any large debris with your leaf net, leaf rake, or leaf eater. Any dirt, sand, algae, or other small debris should be vacuumed to waste. After cleaning the pool, it’s time to check the water chemistry.
DO NOT begin by throwing a bunch of chlorine or other chemicals into the water. Adding chlorine and other chemicals in certain circumstances can damage and/or stain your pool surface. Allow the water to circulate at least 8-12 hours, so that the water that was added has time to mix with the water in the pool. Now test it thoroughly, then add the necessary chemicals in the proper sequence to balance the water chemistry. We would suggest taking a water sample to your local pool professional to have it tested for pH, Total Alkalinity, Calcium Hardness, etc. Be sure to follow the procedure they describe to avoid damage to your pool’s surface.
Now, install your handrails,ladders, etc. being sure to inspect them for wear and damage. If you apply car wax to the stainless steel rails, it will help protect them from corrosion. The diving board should be free of stress cracks and the surface should have a non-skid surface. If the board has any stress cracks, it should be replaced. If the surface has been worn smooth, you can use a refinishing kit to correct this. The tile line can be cleaned with baking soda and a sponge if you do not have any pool tile cleaner. Do not use any household cleaners (especially abrasives) to clean the tile. You do not want to swim in these chemicals.
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