5 Tips to Help You Get Your Pool Ready

Although we had a few cold spells, it really hasn’t been a memorable winter. We have had quite a bit of rain over the past several months. Fortunately (or unfortunately depending on your perspective) the cold spells and the precipitation didn’t occur at the same time, so it appears that we will make it through another winter without any snow. Therefore, it goes without saying that we are below the average snowfall of 1.7”. Now that we are into late March, it is unlikely that we will have another freeze (our average last freeze is March 13^th and our latest freeze on record is April 13^th) as the weather continues to warm up.

What does this mean to pool owners? It means that now is the time to begin preparing your swimming pool for the summer. Algae grows best between pH levels of 7 and 9 and algae growth really begins to increase at water temperatures of 60 degrees. With pool water pH levels being in that pH range, and with pool water temperatures in the Denton area in the low 60’s, it is important to get started now.

Following are 5 tips to help you get your pool ready:

1. It is so important to get an early start in the area of water chemistry, therefore begin the season by testing your pool water. You can do this yourself or have us perform the water analysis—simply bring some water from your pool into our Retail Store. Many problems that happen when your pool water warms up can be prevented now with the proper water analysis and proper chemical treatment.
2. Start the season with a clean filter. It is recommended that you use a filter cleaner/degrease in order to ensure peak filtration. The filter should be thoroughly cleaned now as you are opening your pool, and then during regular 6-month intervals or more if needed.
3. Check for freeze damage. Although most pool owners avoided any freeze damage, some did experience freeze damage during the February 3^rd-5^th freezing weather. Freeze damage would typically show up by a leak or possibly missing tiles. If you do notice a leak, missing tiles, or other problems, have them addressed before they cause more problems.
4. Much like an automobile, maintenance is much less expensive than repairs due to lack of maintenance. Commit to a regular weekly pool maintenance program that includes water testing, cleaning skimmer & pump baskets, brushing the pool and the tile, backwashing the filter as needed, adding chemicals as necessary, and rinsing off the coping and the deck. If you need more education in the area of pool care, don’t hesitate to ask your pool professional.
5. Perform a safety inspection on your pool.
   1. Safety equipment—Do you have a safety buoy and/or life hook?
   2. Fencing—Are your fences and gates in good working order and up to code?
   3. Deck equipment—Have you visually inspected and tightened bolts on the pool equipment—such as ladders & diving boards?
   4. Electrical inspection—
      1. Have you had an electrician check to be sure that your pool is safe?
      2. Are bond wires connected?
      3. Are the ground fault interrupters functioning properly?
6. CPR—Do you know CPR, or is it time to take a class?

Above all, remember that pools should be a source of fun and relaxation, and they can be if get an early start and then follow the basics of pool care.

If you need help getting your pool ready for this summer, give us a call at (940) 384-7665.

Enjoy this great spring weather!