How To Open A Salt Water Pool Archives

Follow our step-by-step guide to learn how to open your pool for the season.

Step 1. Clean/Store Pool Cover

Begin this process by removing the pool cover, then cleaning it and storing it away.
Ensure the pool cover is clean when the time comes to open the pool for the season.

Step 2. Fill Up The Pool

Fill the pool water level to midway up the tile line and skimmer openings.
Add water throughout the next few days to maintain the needed level, if necessary.
Inspect the auto-fill to make sure it is working properly.

Step 3. Clean Debris

Debris can and will accumulate in the pool area during the off-season.
Clean any debris in the area at this time.

Step 4. Inspect/Clean The Pool Filter

Start the season with a clean filter.
Check the media cartridges and grids to find any cracks or holes.
It is recommended to change the sand in your sand filter once every five years.
Add new D.E. after backwashing and before filter startup.
Make sure all O-rings are properly sealed.
Check to see if the filter gauge is in working condition currently.

Step 5. Reinstall Plugs

Replace all of the winterizing plugs.
Then reinstall all drain plugs for the pump, filter and heater.
Teflon tape should be used to prevent filter drips/pump air leaks.

Step 6. Prime Pool Pump And Filter

Using a garden hose, add water to the suction lines to eliminate any air in the plumbing lines.
Open the filter gauge pressure relief, recording the starting PSI.
Check the controller for the correct time, variable speed, hours of operation and flow pumps.
Inspect all components for leaks in the equipment area once the filtration system is operational.
Open all suction and return lines, utilizing the multi-port valve to clear any visible debris.
Prior to cleaning, return the multi-port valve to the filter position.

Step 7. Test/Balance The Water

Using a test kit, check if your pool water chemistry is balanced properly.
This is a very important step toward maintaining healthy pool water.

Step 8. Shock The Pool Water

Using either a chlorine or non-chlorine shock, disinfect the water thoroughly.
Use chlorine to eliminate any algae, if applicable.
Before shocking the water, make sure to brush the algae from the pool walls.

Step 9. Get Pool Cleaning Equipment Ready

Ready all pool equipment at this time, including the following items below.
Vacuum plate.
Skimmer net.
Vacuum head/hose.
Telescopic pole.
Leaf vacuum.
Nylon and wire brush.

Step 10. Get Necessary Pool Chemicals

Gather the following pool chemicals prior to opening for the season.
Algaecide.
Soda ash.
Sodium bisulfate.
Muriatic acid.
Sodium bicarbonate.
Calcium chloride.

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