January
- Typically the water in your pool will be frozen. Don’t try to lower the water level. A drop in the water level will allow the ice to drop, possibly pulling out the return plugs or damaging light fixtures.
February
- Not much can be done at this time. Check the water (ice) level to see if anything has changed.
March
- The ice should be melting (hopefully). Check the water level. Lower the water to keep the safety cover dry.
- A “wet” cover will trap debris and allow the sun to warm the water and add to the algae growth.
- When using a “tarp” cover, the leaves on the cover should be scooped out and water removed from the cover. Make your life easier by purchasing a leaf net that will catch the leaves on your cover for you. If there are any holes in the cover, be sure that you don’t drain the pool.
April
- Keep the cover out of the water by tightening the straps and pumping a few inches of water out of your pool. Ice and snow weight stretches the cover out during the winter, and rain and snow melt will raise the water level beneath the cover.
May & June
- As we get close to the opening date allow the rain to raise the water to the operating level.
- If you are planning a later opening (late June or early July), you may want to add more liquid shock.
- Check the water level periodically so there are no surprises at the opening.
- Keep the cover as dry as possible.
- Add liquid shock again prior to opening your pool if it looks like it needs it.
Open the Pool
- Add a metal remover if tap water is added.
- Initial cleaning / remove any debris and balance the water.
- Check for leaks – gaskets and O-rings may need to be replaced.
- Have the pool heater serviced.
- Note starting filter pressure.
- Bring in a water sample after the pool has been circulating for 24 hours. (Free water testing at our >Retail Store!)
July & August – The Maintenance Phase
- Test the water balance in your pool at least once a week during the peak of the season. Additional tests may be needed if water is added.
- Test and maintain the free chlorine at 1.0-3.0 ppm.
- Empty skimmer and pump baskets as needed.
- Skim the pool surface often and vacuum once a week.
- Bring in a water sample to our >Retail Store for computer testing.
- Check the filter pressure and backwash as needed.
- Add a metal remover to prevent staining if tap water is added.
- Remove elements or cartridges and clean with Filter Cleaner Degreaser to remove any oils and grease that may have accumulated on your filter.
September
- Winterize your pool equipment and plumbing.
- Lower the water level 15” – 18” below the safety cover or 2″ below the skimmer if you are using a tarp cover.
- Close your pool.
October, November & December
- Maintain the water level below the tile line but no more than 18″ below the safety cover or 2” below the skimmer if you are using a tarp cover.
- Keep your safety cover tight so it remains out of the water.
- Remove debris from your tarp cover.
- Add liquid shock and algaecide.