A Guide to Preparing Your Outdoor Swimming Pool for the Spring

Hopefully your swimming pool was suitably prepared for winter, and inspected regularly during the closed season to ensure there are no surprises when the time comes to recommission. Even so it is worth checking that all the plant, including the heating system, is fully functional at the point of commissioning so you know it will work correctly when the time comes to use that plant or begin heating.

Inspect and Clean the Pool

Begin by thoroughly inspecting your pool for any signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or worn-out equipment. Addressing these issues early can prevent further damage and ensure the safety of swimmers. Next, remove any debris, leaves, and dirt that may have accumulated over the winter months. Skim the surface of the water and vacuum the pool bottom to achieve a clean and inviting environment. Filtration should be reinstated to constant to begin with, but no heat should be introduced to the water until the chemistry and clarity are correct.

Test and Balance the Water Chemistry

Proper water chemistry is crucial for maintaining a safe and comfortable swimming environment. Use a pool testing kit to check the pH, Free chlorine, combined Chlorine, alkalinity, Total Dissolved Solids Value, and calcium hardness levels of the water. Adjust these levels as needed to ensure they fall within the recommended ranges. Balanced water chemistry not only protects swimmers from skin and eye irritation, but it also helps prevent the growth of algae and bacteria and can prolong the life of mechanical parts and grout.

Shock the Pool

Depending on the water quality or frequency of winter care visits throughout the closed season, it may be necessary to introduce a concentrated dose of chlorine to kill bacteria, algae, and other contaminants that may be lurking in the water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate shock treatment based on the size of your pool and current water conditions.

Check your filter

You should also consider having the filter media changed if it hasn’t been changed in a few years. It was always standard practice to use filter sand within your sand filter and this typically needs changing every 5 years on an outdoor pool. It may surprise you to know that the sand filter can represent 95% of your complete pool surface area and therefore any contamination of your filter can have a major impact on the quality and safety of your pool water.

Guncast now strongly recommends the use of glass AFM in place of traditional filter sand due to the incredible benefits that AFM provides, not only from a cleanliness, safety and clarity perspective, but also financial and environmental. Our service team will happily discuss this further with you and provide a quote for your consideration.

Inspect and Maintain the Pool Deck and Surroundings

Don’t forget to assess the condition of your pool deck and surrounding area. Repair any cracks or uneven surfaces to prevent tripping hazards. Additionally, trim back overhanging branches and foliage to minimise debris falling into the pool. Consider pressure washing the deck to remove dirt and grime accumulated during the off-season, restoring its appearance, cleanliness and safety.

Check Safety Features and Equipment

Safety should always be a top priority when it comes to pool ownership. Inspect and test all safety features, such as pool covers, fences, gates, and alarms, to ensure they are in good working order. Keep life-saving equipment, such as lifebuoys and reaching poles, easily accessible near the pool area. In some cases, consider installing or updating safety signage with clear instructions for pool usage and emergency procedures.

Pool Cover pits

If you’ve an automatic pool cover then it is likely that there is a pit or underwater enclosure to house the opened cover. These will build up significant organic debris over the previous summer and winter and if left uncleaned will represent a significant demand on your chlorine and lead to increased chemical consumption and decrease in cleanliness and water quality. Guncast recommend these pits are cleaned out at least annually and springtime is the best time to do this.

Plan for Regular Maintenance

Once your pool is open for the summer, establish a routine maintenance schedule to keep it in peak condition throughout the season. This schedule should include tasks such as skimming the surface, vacuuming the pool bottom, brushing the walls and tiles, and monitoring water chemistry. Consistent maintenance not only preserves the beauty and functionality of your pool but also extends its lifespan.

If you want peace of mind that your pool is off to the best start this summer, then the service department can gladly handle everything involved in opening your outdoor pool. Guncast have a team of highly skilled swimming pool maintenance engineers that offer one-off, regular or emergency maintenance visits. We can also provide fully insured, commercially trained divers to carry out any required maintenance, refurbishment, and other underwater or confined space operations that require qualified and experienced specialists.

Once these steps are completed, you can now sit back, relax, and enjoy a summer filled with endless poolside fun. By taking the time to properly prepare your outdoor swimming pool, you can create a safe, clean, and inviting oasis for family and friends to enjoy. So, grab your swimsuit and sunscreen— it’s nearly summer and time to enjoy your swimming pool.