Opening Your Pool After Winter

Opening Your Domestic Pool After Winter – Quick-Start Checklist

1. Remove Winter Debris

  • Drain water from the winter cover.

  • Remove leaves and debris carefully.

Pool cover removal:

  • Above-ground pools: Roll to one end and lift over top rails.

  • Inground pools: Covers may vary — lift carefully to avoid debris falling in.

  • Tip: 2+ people makes the task safer and easier.


2. Reconnect Equipment

  • Rejoin and tighten all pipework connections to pump, filter, and heater.


3. Top Up the Pool Water

  • Fill the pool to about 1 inch above normal operating level.

Adjust water level depending on filter type:

  • Sand/DE filters: Lower to normal level by backwashing and rinsing.

  • Cartridge filters: Fill to normal operating level only; no backwashing needed.


4. Check & Balance Water Chemistry

  • Chlorine pools: Test and adjust pH 7.2–7.6.

  • Poolsan (non-chlorine) pools: Test and adjust pH 7.0–7.4.


5. Shock or Sanitize

  • Chlorine pools: Shock dose with granules or liquid shock.

  • Poolsan pools: Test copper level and add Poolsan liquid as per kit instructions.


6. Refit Pool Equipment

  • Reinstall ladder, solar cover, and reel/roller system.


7. Check Operational Settings

  • Ensure time clock and heater are set correctly for the season.


Notes:

  • Water level may vary slightly depending on pool type and filtration system.

  • Always follow manufacturer guidance for chemical dosing and equipment handling.

Opening Your Domestic Pool After Winter – Quick Reference

Step Action / Guidance Notes / Tips
1. Remove Winter Debris Drain cover water and remove leaves/debris Take care not to let debris fall into the pool
2. Remove Winter Cover Above-ground: roll to one end and lift over rails
Inground: lift carefully, cover may differ
2+ people recommended for safety
3. Reconnect Equipment Rejoin and tighten pipework to pump, filter, and heater Check all fittings are secure
4. Top Up Pool Water Fill ~1 inch above normal level Adjust depending on filter type
Filter Adjustment Sand/DE: lower to normal by backwashing
Cartridge: fill to normal only
Prevents overfilling and filter damage
5. Check & Balance Water Chemistry Chlorine: pH 7.2–7.6
Poolsan: pH 7.0–7.4
Ensures effective sanitation and protects equipment
6. Shock / Sanitize Chlorine: shock dose with granules or liquid
Poolsan: test copper & add Poolsan liquid as instructed
Follow manufacturer guidance carefully
7. Refit Equipment Ladder, solar cover, reel/roller system Ensure everything is properly installed
8. Check Operational Settings Set time clock and heater for the season Confirm correct seasonal program
Notes Water levels may vary slightly by pool type and filtration system Always follow manufacturer chemical instructions