Follow these simple steps to enjoy a full season of crystal-clear water that will make your neighbours jealous!
Step 1: Opening
First things first. A great pool season starts with properly opening your pool in the spring. It’s recommended to get it done as soon as the water is all thawed out. Once the filter is connected, fill up the pool and start the pump to get the water moving around.
Remove as much dirt and debris as possible using the vacuum (vacuum head attached to the telescopic pole connected to the skimmer using a hose). If you have a sand filter, you’ll have to set your filter to the drain position to vacuum.
Add water, as needed. It’s important to let the system run for at least 4 hours before taking a water sample for testing. If you can’t do it right away, add some chlorine.
Your Sima specialist will advise you on the opening kit that’s best for you. The kits sold in our stores are 100% soluble and don’t leave a residue. Your water will be clear and blue within 24 to 48 hours.
Step 2: Balancing
Balancing is an important step to maintain water quality. Balancing pH, alkalinity and hardness is key to protecting your equipment, having great water for swimming and allowing your sanitizer to work properly. Once everything is balanced, adding stabilizer will help protect against chlorine evaporating because of the sun.
Step 3: Upkeep routine
There are several types of sanitizers for daily upkeep. The one you choose depends on your needs, how much you use your pool and your schedule. Granular chlorine must be added every night, while pucks can be added two or three times a week. To make sure your water stays clear, stick to your sanitizing routine and do a home water test every morning.
All-in-one weekly kits (Kool Kit) are great for maintaining water quality. They’re made to make your life easier. Another good thing about them is that they maintain a steady level of product in the water. And if you go on holidays, your water won’t turn on you!
Have your water tested once a month by your Sima specialist. Don’t forget to bring a list of the products you already have and the quantities. It’s also important to keep your pool clean. Use a special brush to wash the sides of the pool. The dirt will go through the filter and algae won’t build up.
Step 4: Filtration and circulation
Water filtration and circulation are essential. It’s not recommended to completely shut off the pump because the products need to circulate to work properly. Also, make sure to do a backwash from time to time to ensure an optimal performance for your filter, and to clean out the filter cartridge if you have one.
Step 5: Closing
When the pool season comes to an end, the last step is closing the pool. Make sure to do it as late as possible. Thanksgiving weekend is usually a good time. If you close your pool too early, you could have trouble balancing your water come spring. Also, if it rains, the water level will be too high, which can cause problems during the winter months. Have your water tested to make sure it’s well balanced and use the closing kit recommended by your Sima specialist. It’s also a good idea to use a cleaning treatment for your sand or cartridge to remove any dirt or grease.