Few things say, “Spring is here!” like a crystal clear, inviting swimming pool in your backyard. Transforming your pool from a frigid, debris-laden marsh into a sparkling oasis isn’t as magical as a snow-to-cherry-blossom transition at the change of the season.
Luckily, with some dedication and elbow grease, your pool will be ready for cannonballs in no time. This guide will take you through a step-by-step de-winterization process that every pool owner should have up their sleeve.
Assessing the Winter Damage
First things first: How badly did winter treat your beloved splash haven? Begin by taking a good look at your pool. Does it resemble a haunted swamp more than a resort spa? The good news is that the grimmer it looks, your transformation will be more dramatic.
Common winter after-effects may include discolored murky water, stray debris swirling like an underwater tornado, and evidence of ice damage on your tiles or pool equipment. Don’t be too surprised if you find some sneaky wildlife, like frogs or water bugs, who decide your pool is their vacation house.
Some visual cues may be hard to notice from the edge. That’s where some swim gear can come to your rescue. Dive in with some snorkeling equipment if the water is safe, or use pool floats.
Aside from their obvious roles as Insta-worthy accessories and relaxation tools, pool floats can also be useful in gauging your pool’s water composition. They reveal variations in water color, surface debris, and waterline filth when floating around. What’s not to love about an inflatable unicorn or a car-shaped raft inspecting your pool for you?
Cleaning and Prepping Your Pool
Alright, bring your rubber gloves and your steely resolve — it’s time to pull up your sleeves and get into the deep cleaning process. Say goodbye to grim and grime with these tips for preparing your pool for sunny days and floating pool party fun.
Removing Debris
Skim the surface. Then, if the debris at the bottom of the pool looks like a miniature version of the Great Barrier Reef, reach for a pool vacuum. Remember, patience is the key during this stage. Transforming your pond-like pool into a cleaner version of itself is all about chipping away at it one leaf, twig, and pebble at a time.
Scrubbing and Cleaning
Once debris-free, it’s time to bring out the big guns: scrub brushes. Your pool might need a literal brush-off after being closed for months. Start by scrubbing all surfaces, floors, walls, and especially the waterline, which can often harbor nasty scum.
Look for pool-safe cleaning products. You don’t want yourself or your fun dolphin float to be swimming in a sea of harmful solvents.
Checking Pool Filters
Next on the spring-cleaning list are the filters. Disassemble and clean them thoroughly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Gunked-up filters can prolong the cleaning process and render the pool unsafe for swimmers. Plus, your charming pool floats deserve better than bobbing around in a film of algae.
Checking Pool Chemistry
Dealing with pool chemicals can be slightly unnerving, but mastering the basics can go a long way. Start by checking the pH level. The ideal swimming pool pH lies between 7.2 and 7.8.
Next, scrutinize your pool’s alkalinity. This range should sit between 80 and 120 ppm. Think of alkalinity as your pool’s buffer zone. Keeping it in check stops the pH from hitting a dramatic peak or valley.
Chlorine is the disinfectant you can rely on. Accurate chlorine levels — between one and three ppm — ensure that any invisible bacteria or algae are dealt with before they create problems. After winter’s hiatus, a good shock to the system will clean up the pool quickly and efficiently.
Setting Up Your Pool for Spring
With a sparkling pool — and rebalanced chemistry — it’s time to dust off your pool accessories and gear up to embrace the warmer days. Start up your pool equipment, check every pump and filter, and make sure that they are running smoothly.
Arrange your poolside loungers, and sun-protective umbrellas, and, of course, let your pool floats out of their winter hibernation. Your robotic shark, the gigantic doughnut, and that neon flamingo have also been waiting for their water adventures!
For the spring season, you’ll want to set a maintenance schedule. Regular check-ups prevent minor issues from turning into major problems. Everyone enjoys a clearer, well-maintained swimming pool, including your pool floats.
Taking the Spring Plunge With Confidence
You’ve successfully braved the lively world of post-winter pool maintenance. These steps might sometimes be chaotic and frustrating, but the results are oh-so-satisfying. Just imagine basking in the sun on a comfy pool float, lazily drifting along on crystal clear waters that you mastered.
Every pool fan knows that a clear pool is a happy pool, but a happy pool owner makes everything better. So pop on that sunscreen, put on your favorite summer playlist, and dive in like that pool’s been waiting for you all winter. You’ve earned it!
Published by: Aly Cinco
