Pool Opening Checklist

Clear and remove the coverPump off standing water and sweep debris first so it doesn’t fall in. Clean, dry and fold the cover before storing it.

Reinstall hardwareRemove winter plugs and skimmer ice protectors. Put back drain plugs on the pump, filter and heater, return fittings, ladders, rails and skimmer baskets; check diving board and rail anchors are tight.

Top up the waterFill to the middle of the skimmer opening.

Inspect equipmentCheck the pump lid O-ring (lubricate with a silicone-based O-ring lubricant), filter, heater, salt cell, timer and wiring. Test GFCI outlets.

Prime and start the pumpOpen valves, fill the pump basket with water, start it and check for leaks and air in the basket. Bleed air from the filter.

Clean the filterBackwash sand or DE filters (recharge DE), or rinse cartridges.

Brush and vacuumBrush walls, steps and floor; vacuum debris (to waste if it is heavy).

Test everythingFC, CC, pH, TA, CH, CYA, and salt if you have a generator. Use the test log.

Balance in orderAlkalinity, then pH, then calcium hardness, then stabilizer. Use the calculators and retest between big adjustments.

Shock and clearRaise FC to about 40% of your CYA (see the chlorine calculator), run the pump 24/7 and keep FC there until the water is clear, CC is 0.5 ppm or less and overnight FC loss is under 1 ppm.

Start the salt cellOnly once salt is in range and the water is clear.

Check safetyGate latches and alarms, drain covers intact and secure, safety rope and rescue equipment in place.

Settle into routineRun the pump daily and test FC and pH every day for the first week.

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