It’s hot out, and you know what that means – it’s officially pool season! But, before you jump in, it’s important to make sure your pool is summer-ready. 

But, what exactly are the steps you need to take before enjoying the first pool day of summer with your family? That’s what we’re here to tell you. Keep reading to find out how to get your pool ready for summer with this step-by-step guide. 

Remove Your Swimming Pool Cover

Swimming pool covers tend to accumulate standing water, leaves, and other debris throughout the fall and winter months. So, before removing your pool cover, you’ll want to clean it first. 

Use a leaf blower or shop vac to get rid of standing water, grass clippings, and leaves. If there is a significant amount of water weighing down your cover, use your pool pump to drain it. Next, collect any trash that might have been blown onto your pool cover and dispose of it properly. 

Clean Your Swimming Pool Cover 

Once you’ve cleared your pool cover of water and debris, it’s important to clean it before folding it and storing it away for the summer. You don’t want to skip this step, as neglecting to clean and dry your pool cover before storage can lead to fungal and bacterial growth.

Remove your pool cover from your pool and relocate it to an area of your yard where you can spread it out completely. Next, using a pool cover cleaner or another mild detergent like car wash soap or dish soap, scrub the cover evenly with a soft-bristle brush. 

Once you’ve cleaned both sides of the cover, give it time to dry out in the sun, making sure to flip it over to dry both sides evenly. After the cover has dried, fold it and store it in a dry place. 

Clean Your Pool

Don’t be alarmed if you notice algae or debris in your pool. This process to bring your pool back to swimming shape is straightforward.

First, use a skimmer to remove any debris that might have slipped past your pool cover. Then, break out the pool vacuum to remove algae buildup along the pool walls and bottom. 

Check Your Pool Filters

Your pool’s filters are vital for maintaining clean, bacteria-free water. Follow these steps to ensure your filters are healthy:

• Inspect your filters closely, checking o-rings and gauges to ensure they are functioning properly. 
• If your pool has sand filters, you’ll want to change the sand every five years. 
• Replace any damaged or cracked filters.
• Add new diatomaceous earth to your D.E. filter.

Adjust and Test Your Pool’s Water

It’s normal for a pool to lose a little water during the off-season. To make sure your pool’s chemical level is correct, you’ll need to add water to bring it back up to the correct level. 

Next, use a pool testing kit to check the chemical balance of your pool. Maintaining the correct pH, chlorine, calcium, and alkalinity levels in your pool is crucial for keeping your water healthy and safe to swim in. Once you’ve completed the test, adjust the chemical balance as needed. 

Shock Your Pool

Shocking is the final step in getting your pool ready for the summer. This process rids your pool of unwelcome bacteria and brings the water back to a clear, refreshing state. 

Whether you use a chlorine or non-chlorine shock, it’s important to read the product instructions carefully, as adding too much of any chemical can throw off your pool’s chemical balance and even irritate your skin and eyes. 

Once you’ve applied the shock treatment, remember to wait at least 24 hours before going for a swim. 

Does this sound like a lot of work? Do you need help getting your pool summer-ready? If your pool system requires repairs or maintenance, the professionals at Cox Pools are here to help. With over 65 years of experience, our Master Pools Guild-certified technicians respond promptly and complete their work to the highest standards in the industry. 

Contact Cox Pools today to schedule your pool maintenance in and around the Gulf Coast.