When and how to open up your swimming pool

With Spring finally here, it may seem a little early to think about opening up your outdoor pool. However, like with everything, it's best to be prepared.

While the process may seem overwhelming, it can be quite simple if you follow the right steps and keep on top of the maintenance. Here’s Penguin Leisure’s top tips on how you should re-open your private pool. 

Step 1: Prepare

The first and most crucial step is to prepare for the pool opening. This includes setting aside enough time, gathering all the necessary supplies, and understanding the necessary steps. Supplies you'll need include a leaf net, a pool vacuum, gloves, a hose to fill the pool, chemical test strips, and all the chemicals required to treat your pool.

Step 2: Check for Damage

Before proceeding, check your pool for any damages or cracks. Addressing these issues now will prevent any leaks or further problems later on.

Step 3: Clean the Pool Cover

Remove the pool winter cover and clean it thoroughly (if it has one). Use a soft bristle brush to sweep off any debris or buildup. You can also use a high-pressure hose to clean off any remaining debris. After cleaning, allow the cover to dry completely before storing it in a moisture and pest-free area.

Step 4: Clean the Pool

The next step is to clean the pool itself. Remove any debris from the surface of the pool using a leaf net, then vacuum the bottom of the pool to remove any remaining debris or buildup. This preliminary cleaning will make the next step more efficient.

Step 5: Re-install the Equipment

After cleaning, you can reinstall any equipment or accessories that were removed during winterisation. Clean each item before re-installing it into the pool. If you have new equipment, make sure to follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.

Step 6: Add the Chemicals

Adding chemicals is the most important step in the pool opening process. Fill your pool with water and add the necessary sanitation products. Allow these chemicals to circulate for 24 hours before testing their levels using test strips or a professional. Test for pH level, chlorine content, and more and then adjust as required. Brush the pool thoroughly to loosen any remaining debris, and run the filtration system to finish cleaning the pool.

If you require further assistance, help replacing damaged equipment or prefer to have a professional company handle the pool opening, contact us at Penguin Leisure for specialist help.

Has your pool been serviced in the past 12 months?

Regular servicing of your pool's machinery is crucial to ensure its proper functioning and longevity. Following a good servicing schedule can help you extend the lifespan of the equipment used to run your pool. Boilers and heat pumps, for instance, need to be serviced annually as per the manufacturer's instructions. If gas boilers are installed, they must be checked every year for leaks in compliance with gas regulations. If you notice any unusual occurrences, such as strange noises coming from the plant room or the pool not reaching the correct temperature, it's recommended to seek professional help and have the equipment inspected. Don’t lose time and enjoyment of your pool by skipping servicing as it may lead to bigger problems in the long term. 

Maintenance Tips:

Once your pool is open and ready for use, proper maintenance is necessary to keep it clean and safe. Regularly test the water quality and adjust chemicals as needed. Brush the sides and bottom of the pool on a weekly basis and vacuum it at least once a week. Keep an eye on the equipment to ensure it is functioning correctly and address any issues immediately.

By following these steps and helpful tips you can enjoy a clean and healthy pool all season long. Penguin Leisure offer stress-free swimming pool servicing and maintenance plans. Contact us today to learn more about how we can keep your pool in perfect condition. 

Happy swimming!