Blog The Ultimate Checklist for Opening Your Pool in the Spring Jun 26, 2025

As the chilly grip of winter fades and the vibrant blooms of spring start to emerge, pool owners begin to dream of sun-soaked afternoons by the water. Opening your pool after a long winter is an exciting first step toward enjoying those lazy summer days. However, to ensure a smooth and healthy swimming season, there's a checklist you'll want to follow. Here at Fox Ridge Pools, we know how important it is for our customers to start the season off right. Let’s dive into what you need to do to get your pool ready.

The first step in opening your pool is removing any winter debris that has accumulated. As tempting as it might be to jump right into the cleaning process, removing leaves and other debris from your cover is essential. Carefully clear the surface before taking off the cover to prevent unwanted materials from falling into the water. Once the cover is removed, clean it thoroughly before storing it away until next winter. This small step can significantly extend its lifespan and ensure you're ready for next year's hibernation.

Next, examine your pool structure and equipment. Look for any signs of damage that the cold weather might have inflicted. Check the liners, tiles, and any visible pipes or fixtures for cracks or other issues. Address these repairs early to prevent them from worsening over time. If you’re unsure or notice something unusual, contacting Fox Ridge Pools for a professional inspection could save time and costly repairs.

Once you've ensured everything is intact, it's time to clean. Begin by brushing the pool walls and floor to loosen any build-up from non-circulating water. Then, vacuum the pool to remove any particles. This is crucial in maintaining clear water and preventing algae growth. You might also want to utilize a pool skimmer to manually remove any lingering debris.

Reconnecting your pool equipment is the next critical step. Reattach hoses, pumps, and other essential fittings. You may need to consult your pool's manual or call a technician if you're unsure about how to correctly set up these systems. After everything is connected, start your pump and filter system to ensure they function properly. Running your filter for at least eight hours daily during the initial opening phase is a good practice to circulate the water thoroughly.

Balancing your water’s chemistry is key for a clean, safe swimming environment. Check the pool's pH and alkalinity levels, adjusting as necessary. A balanced pH level should be between 7.2 and 7.8. Failure to maintain these levels can lead to corrosion or irritations. Chlorine is also vital in killing bacteria. Use a water testing kit to measure levels accurately, and adjust the chemicals to reach an ideal range.

Lastly, shock your pool. This step involves adding a large dose of chlorine to eliminate any bacteria that may have developed. Follow up with regular water testing to ensure your pool remains healthy throughout the season. Weekly shock treatments are recommended to maintain cleanliness and clarity.

Opening your pool for the season involves careful planning and attention to detail. By following these steps, you ensure your pool is ready for a summer of fun and relaxation. Remember, if you need assistance or prefer to leave it to the professionals, Fox Ridge Pools is always ready to lend a helping hand. Here’s to a fantastic swimming season ahead!