Pool Opening Checklist - NJ

Those who closed their pools the proper way last fall will find that opening their pool will be a lot easier. However, this doesn’t mean you can skip steps or take it lightly. There are many steps that need to be taken, in the right order, for the pool opening to be a success. Look to Central Jersey Pools to assist you with this whole process. Check out these tips to make sure you open the pool the right way.

1. Do an inventory check of your pool supplies and chemicals. When you take the time to go through your stockpile, you know precisely what you already have and what you still need to pick up for the coming season. Don’t forget to inspect those expiration dates and throw out any old supplies. Also, check that you have enough test strips and kits on hand.

2. Clean off the pool cover to get twigs and leaves off. Vacuum or pump off any standing water. This will help prevent sticks, rocks and acorns from puncturing holes in the cover during this process. Simply use a pool rake or leaf net for this task.

3. Clean up the decking and patio areas while you’re at it.

4. Take off the cover carefully, laying it out flat on the driveway, patio or other large area. To get off any dirt, use a mixture of mild detergent and warm water. Make sure you rinse and let it dry completely. This is also a good time to patch up any tears or holes you see.

5. Store the cover off the floor in a cool, dark spot so that no rodents, bugs, mice or moisture can ruin it.

6. Take out any winterizing plugs.

7. Add water to get back to a normal water level.

8. Inspect the skimmer for cracks.

9. Secure your basket strainers, then fire up the filtration system. Remove any debris that could be clogging the lines. Backwash the filter if needed.

10. Vacuum the pool floor, wiping down the sides with a brush.

11. Test the water, but make sure you’ve given the old and new water time to mix for a day or so. Central Jersey Pools would be happy to take a water sample to test for elements like alkalinity, pH and chlorine levels.

12. Run the filter continuously for the next couple of days, particularly if the levels are off. Re-test for balance.

13. Condition and shock the pool, adding algaecide to prevent growth.

14. Add all handrails, entry systems, slides and stairs.

15. See what accessories you have and what new ones you need to get such as flotation devices, rafts and toys. Check to see if you have enough life vests on hand for the kids.

Last step? Have fun in your pool! Part of being a responsible pool owner means you have to do the proper maintenance on it all season long. Opening the pool is just the first step. Let Central Jersey Pools help you stay on top of the regular maintenance so you can attend to more important things. Give us a call to tackle this job so you can rest easy and enjoy your pool thoroughly this summer.