Opening Your Pool

By following a short list of startup measures, you’ll ensure your pool is swim ready.  However, make sure you contact your local pool professional for additional information on your region's particular details.

• If the pool is covered, you''ll need to eliminate debris and water from the cover. Use a quality cover cleaner to clean, deodorize, and protect it. Then put it in a cool, dry place for long-term storage.
• Use your leaf-cleaner to clean out leaves and other debris from the bottom of your pool. Empty the skimmer and pump strainer baskets.
• Fill your pool until it's halfway up the skimmer.  This is the recommended level. 
• Inspect all of your equipment for installation and operation.  This includes your pump, filter, heater, diving board, ladders and chlorinator.
• Bring a sample of your pool water to an authorized dealer so he/she can give you a complete analysis. Then follow the instructions the dealer gives you and balance your pool water.
• Shock your pool and eliminate organic waste.
• Add an initial dose of an algaecide to prevent algae.
• To sanitize your pool, use a stabilizer.  An example of this would be chlorinated tablets in a floater, skimmer, or automatic chlorinator.
• Run the filter system for a minimum of two hours. While your filter is running, brush the walls and vacuum the pool bottom.

(Note: The surface of a newly plastered pool should harden for a period of several weeks before being brushed or vacuumed.)