Mistakes people make when opening their pool for summer

The tasks associated with pool opening in Kanata for summer use can seem daunting. For this reason, many homeowners try to cut corners. While it may seem practical, you can experience unexpected problems later. These can be costly monetarily as well as loss of time during which you can enjoy the pool experience.

Mistakes people often make in pool opening in Kanata.

Timing

Generally, pools are readied for use in about May or early June, which is about the time you can swim comfortably. However, delaying the preparation and opening of the pool can be a mistake. The chlorine you added in the fall when you closed the pool for the season is long gone. As the air temperature warms the water to 60 degrees in April, this is the appropriate time to open up.

The cost of running your pool for a few extra weeks outweighs the cost of cleaning the alga that will form. Run the pump about 6 or 8 hours a day until the weather warms up sufficiently. 

Cover Removal and Storage

If you try to remove the cover without first emptying any accumulated water or debris, it will just send all that mess right into the pool water, and you will have more clean-up than you bargained for. It will take two people to remove the cover carefully, so you don’t release any leftover debris into the pool.

Once the cover is removed, spread it out over your lawn and hose it off to remove any residue. You may need to use a pool brush and pool cover cleaner to be sure all organic debris is removed. Rinse again with a hose, fold and store in a plastic container. Using the cleaner helps prevent any mildew from forming through the summer and will also make it easier to unfold in the fall. Storing in a covered plastic bin will keep it safe from rodents.

Leaf Removal

Inevitably a few leaves will escape the pool cover and land in the water. Remove them as soon as possible to prevent the water from turning green. The leaves can eat up the chlorine, and then there is less of the chemical to sanitize your pool water.

Brush

Algae is tricky. Even if you don’t see it, it can accumulate on the pool’s walls and floor. Brushing the entire surface of the pool will remove this slime by breaking it into smaller pieces for the chlorine to kill.

Check for Leaks

If you notice water where there should be none, you may have a problem. Check for cracks in the plumbing. If none are found, tighten any connections. If these two things are completed, and you still see a leak, lubricate the O ring or seal with silicone or replace it. Call for a pool specialist if you have done all these preliminaries and still have a leak.

Filter Pressure Gauge

This is the device that lets you know when the filter is full of debris. If you don’t clean the filter when it needs it, you can damage the entire pump and the filter itself. The filter pressure gauge is a rather flimsy gadget and usually needs replacement annually. Fortunately, it is very low cost.

Balance the Water

Take a sample of your water to a local retailer for testing. The sample should be taken one week after you have opened the pool. They will test the water and make any recommendations. A balanced water system will extend the life of your pool and its equipment.

Avoid mistakes when opening your pool for summer!

Pool opening in Kanata might not be as easy as it seems, but there is an easy way to avoid errors. By hiring ML Pool to open your swimming pool when summer comes, you’re guaranteed to have a clean and ready-to-use pool without any hassle. We have years of experience in opening swimming pools and can help you get your pool ready for the summer in no time. We offer a range of pool services in the Ottawa Valley, so we’re the company to call if you need help with pool maintenance or repairs.