Opening Your Pool After Winter
Opening Your Domestic Pool After Winter – Quick-Start Checklist
1. Remove Winter Debris
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Drain water from the winter cover.
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Remove leaves and debris carefully.
Pool cover removal:
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Above-ground pools: Roll to one end and lift over top rails.
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Inground pools: Covers may vary — lift carefully to avoid debris falling in.
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Tip: 2+ people makes the task safer and easier.
2. Reconnect Equipment
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Rejoin and tighten all pipework connections to pump, filter, and heater.
3. Top Up the Pool Water
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Fill the pool to about 1 inch above normal operating level.
Adjust water level depending on filter type:
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Sand/DE filters: Lower to normal level by backwashing and rinsing.
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Cartridge filters: Fill to normal operating level only; no backwashing needed.
4. Check & Balance Water Chemistry
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Chlorine pools: Test and adjust pH 7.2–7.6.
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Poolsan (non-chlorine) pools: Test and adjust pH 7.0–7.4.
5. Shock or Sanitize
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Chlorine pools: Shock dose with granules or liquid shock.
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Poolsan pools: Test copper level and add Poolsan liquid as per kit instructions.
6. Refit Pool Equipment
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Reinstall ladder, solar cover, and reel/roller system.
7. Check Operational Settings
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Ensure time clock and heater are set correctly for the season.
Notes:
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Water level may vary slightly depending on pool type and filtration system.
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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 |