Pool Season Appears to be Coming Sooner than Normal

It was a fairly mild winter. Sure, we had our cold streaks, but it never really got that cold for a long period of time.

We are considerably behind our average number of freezes, as we have had 17 days where it reached 32 degrees and we average 33 days. And it goes without saying that we are below the average snowfall of 1.7”. Although we might still have another freeze, it is not real likely as the last average freeze is March 13^th. All of this means that the pool season appears to be coming sooner than normal.

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 rapidly approaching 60 degrees, it is important to get started now.

Following are some tips to be sure that you get started off on the right foot:

1. Begin the season by testing your water. You can do this yourself or bring your pool water by our retail store and we will perform a computerized water analysis. 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. Remember that much like an automobile, maintenance is much less expensive than costly repairs due to lack of maintenance. Due to the fairly harsh winter that we had, some pools experienced freeze damage. If you notice a leak, missing tiles, or other problems, have them addressed before they cause more problems.
4. 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 let us know.
5. Perform a safety inspection on your pool.
   • Safety equipment—Do you have a safety buoy and/or life hook?
   • Fencing—Are your fences and gates in good working order and up to code?
   • Deck equipment—Have you visually inspected and tightened bolts on the pool equipment—such as ladders & diving boards?
   • Electrical inspection—Have you had an electrician check to be sure that your pool is safe?
     1. Are bond wires connected?
     2. Are the ground fault interrupters functioning properly?
   • 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, give our Service Department a call at (940) 891-0500 and we will come do the work for you.

Enjoy this great spring weather!