Guide to Preparing a Pool for the Summer

Summer is quickly approaching, meaning that the swimming pool season is nearly here. Preparing a pool for the summer can be a long, arduous task, but there are some simple and relatively easy ways to make pool prep less of a burden.

1. If the pool is covered during the fall and winter months, do not even consider removing the cover until most, if not all, of the pollen, male pine cones, and other spring breeding mechanisms have stopped falling out of the trees. This will save so much time and energy because otherwise you will keep cleaning the pool again and again, and it will never seem to get any cleaner.

2. Use one of the many sweeper extensions available to clean the bottom and sides of the pool. Sometimes, this is easier to do from inside the pool.

3. Do not turn on the filter until the pool has been thoroughly skimmed. It is too hard on most filter models to handle a post-winter cleaning until most of the surface grime and litter has been removed. It is better to expend a bit of energy than it is to replace a broken and pricey filter.

4. Check the liner of the pool and the framework (if above ground) for any wear and tear. The pool might need to be drained and repaired if there is any extensive damage.

5. Take a water sample to be tested at your local pool supply store before adding any chemicals. There are also tests available that can be performed at home, but the experts at the store can test the water and suggest products that will correct any wavering numbers.

6. Clean the around around the pool to keep the water from being polluted. In above ground pools, clean the outside to make sure the whole area looks presentable. A dirty deck with eventually mean a dirty pool, and messes can hide potential problems.

7. Thoroughly clean the ladder(s) or steps. There are few feelings more disgusting than a grimy pool ladder, and the ladder is too often neglected during pre-summer cleaning.

8.Clean the filter system thoroughly before beginning to use it. Otherwise, the filter will be as effective as cleaning a floor with a dirty mop.

9. Do a safety inspection of all ladders. A badly attached or snapped ladder can pose a serious safety hazard for someone entering or leaving a pool.

10. Be very patient. It can take some time to get a pool running, but you can shop around for air mattresses and flotation devices in the meantime.

Pools are meant to be fun, so do not let the task of preparing a pool suck all the fun out of summer. There are many important steps, but the most important thing of all is to enjoy your investment.