Once the cold season starts, one of the most important in winter pool maintenance is to use the right cover for protection. When the time comes that the temperature is higher and you can use the pool again, you need to open above ground pool and make it ready for a refreshing dip!
If you want to learn how to open an above ground pool, read on and learn from the insights we’ll be sharing!
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Open an Above Ground Pool
The thought of opening above ground pools can intimidate most people. However, it is pretty much an easy task. A little time and effort will go a long way. You don’t need to pay the pros to carry out the job since you can do it yourself. Take note of the steps briefly mentioned below.
Remove the Pool Cover
The first and most obvious thing to do is to remove the pool cover. Depending on the size of the above ground pool that you have, you can either do this by yourself or ask for a helping hand if the cover is too big or heavy. To make things easier, it will also be good if you have a pool cover reel.
Before removing the cover, get rid of the dirt and debris on the surface, including leaves. A skimmer net or a soft broom can help. You can also use a cover pump to drain any excess water that is on the top of the cover.
After removing the cover, lay it down in a flat and open space. Use soap and water to clean the cover. A pressure washer will also work if you have to remove tough stains. You can also manually scrub the cover using warm water and mild soap. Rinse the cover and dry. This is important to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Once it is dry, fold the cover and store it in a cold and dark place until it is ready to be unveiled the next time you have to winterize a pool.
Inspect the Pool
Now that you have taken off and safely stored the cover, time for a quick inspection. This is the chance to see any potential problem and have it repaired before filling the pool with water. Be as attentive as possible to spot issues and solve them as soon as possible.
Depending on the construction of the pool, the material might have fared during the time it wasn’t used, and this can make it prone to leaks. Check for leaks and cracks. See to it that the above ground pool liner is in perfect condition.
Fill the Pool with Water
Once everything is ready, it is now time to fill the above ground pool with water. You can skip this step if you did not drain the pool before having it covered. Otherwise, fill it with the right amount of water. Do not over-fill.
You will need a hose to fill your swimming pool with water. Hook it up to the nearest water supply. This will take quite a while depending on the size of the above ground pool and the pressure of the water.
To fill the above ground pool, you can use city or municipal water, well water, and water from the fire department, among others. Whatever you choose, the most important is to use pool test kits to evaluate the quality of the water and adjust it as needed.
You might also like: How To Take Down Above Ground Pool
Fix Pool Equipment and Accessories
The next step in opening the above-ground pool is to add the equipment and accessories you will need to get the pool ready for use. Reinstall the deck equipment that you have removed. Return the above ground pool ladder, which will make it easy to get in and out of the swimming pool.
The filter is another important part that you should install before using the pool. Before installation, backwashing the filter is a must. This will remove the blockage, which will improve the efficiency of the filter. The type of pool filter that you have will also dictate what is best to choose.
The pool skimmer is another important part of the pool that you have to replace. Do this before you replace the water in the pool. Once the skimmer is in place, connect it to the pool pump and filter. Connect the chlorinator and heater, among other important tools that you will need to keep the above ground pool up and running.
As you install equipment in the above ground pool, inspect them individually, making sure that there are no visible damages. Watch out for cracks, rust, and corrosion. Get rid of damaged equipment to avoid compromising your comfort and safety.
Adjust the Chemicals
Before you can finally use the pool, you need to add certain chemicals. New water in the pool may look clean, but you need to add and adjust its chemical make-up to make sure that it is sanitized and that it will last longer. In some cases, some people do not empty their pool before having it covered. In this instance, it is more important to test pool water and adjust chemicals as needed.
One of the most important is to balance the alkalinity in the pool water, which should be 80 to 120 parts per million. To lower alkaline in the water, you can use muriatic acid. On the other hand, to raise alkaline, you can use baking soda. If the alkalinity is not balanced, the pool water will look cloudy.
Lowering and increasing pH levels is also important to open above ground pool. Ideally, it should range from 7.2 to 7.8. The imbalance of the pool’s pH level can irritate. Muriatic acid and soda ash will help adjust the pool’s pH.
After balancing, the next thing you need to learn is how to shock a pool. To do this the right way, you will need the best pool shock. For every 10,000 gallons of water, the rule of thumb is to use two pounds of shock.
Once you are done adjusting the chemicals and shocking the pool, give it at least a day before you give the pool a go. This is more than enough time for the shock to take effect and chlorine to be at a safer level.
FAQs
Got questions about how to open a pool? We’ll answer some of them before we conclude this short guide.
Q: How do you open an above ground pool for the first time?
To open an above ground pool for the first time, start by getting rid of the cover. Next, inspect the pool for potential damages, especially leaks. Add water to the pool, clean, and adjust the pool’s chemistry. Once everything is ready, you are ready to take a plunge!
Q: What chemicals do you use to open above ground pool?
To open an above ground pool, some of the chemicals that you will use include chlorine, cyanuric acid, muriatic acid, granular acid, and bromine, among others. These chemicals will help in sanitizing pool water and making it clearer. Some chemicals also help to adjust hardness and alkalinity.
Q: How much does it cost to open an above ground pool?
Opening an above ground pool will cost $175 to $225 depending on the company that you will be working with. The service typically includes removal of the cover, shocking, de-winterizing, and adjusting the chemical makeup of the pool water as needed.
Q: When should you open your above ground pool?
The best time to open your above ground pool is once the temperature reaches 70 degrees Fahrenheit. At this point, it is hot enough to be on the pool and this can also be an indication that the cold season has officially ended.
Q: How do I open my above ground pool for the season?
To open your above ground pool for the season, start by removing the cover. Clean the pool and inspect for any problem, especially leaks. Once it is filled with clean water, adjust the chemistry and wait at least a day before using your above ground pool.
Globo Surf Overview
Knowing how to open an above ground pool is a must to get your swimming pool ready for a dip after winter! From the proper removal of the cover to adjusting the chemical levels, follow the steps mentioned to do it like a pro.
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