Getting Your Swimming Pool Set for Summer

Even in the sunny San Diego area, pools can go unused during the cooler months of the year. As summer approaches, it’s tempting to pull your pool’s cover off, quickly eye the water, and go for a dip. But before you do some laps or get your floaties and other accessories out, there are some things to cross off your pool readiness to-do list first. The San Diego pool and spa pros from San Diego Pools offer the following tips on what to do to get your swimming pool ready for summertime fun and enjoyment.

Test the Water

Get started with your summertime pool prep efforts by testing the water. You can do this with a DIY kit that supplies test strips you stick in the water. Simply match the color on the strip to what’s on the box to see if your water’s pH is within an acceptable range. You can also have a local pool company test your swimming pool water if you prefer more precise results.

Inspect & Clean Key Parts

Next, get your pool ready for summer by inspecting and cleaning all the key parts that help it function properly. Before you get started, a skimmer can be used to remove any visible debris on top of the water. As for the parts to inspect and/or clean, this list includes:

• Your pool’s filter
• The pump
• Any additional mechanical accessories you may have, like a pool heater
• Your pool’s ladder or steps for stability

Vacuum the Bottom

There can still be dirt and debris on the bottom of your pool even if it didn’t go unused for all that long. An effective way to clean your pool floor is with a vacuum designed specifically for this purpose. Pressure and suction vacuums use pressure or water flow from the filtration system. Another option is a robotic vacuum, which works independently.

Top It Off

The water level in a swimming pool can go down during long periods of non-use. If your level is a bit low, top your pool off and get it back to the water level that’s normal for your pool. As a general rule, the surface should be about 3 inches below the edge.

Wait for Water in Your Pool to Be Clear

It’s not out of the ordinary for your pool’s water to be a bit murky or cloudy if it hasn’t been used for a while. Remedy this situation by running and cleaning the filter daily until you can clearly see the pool floor. You may need to add some more chlorine to help with the process. Just remember to retest your pool’s water before you start using it again if you add extra chlorine.

Don’t Empty Your Pool to Get It Ready

One thing you don’t want to do to get your swimming pool ready for summertime is drain it all the way down and fill it up again. Doing so, at least with an in-ground pool, could create enough pressure to lift the pool out of the ground. If you really think completely replacing the water is necessary, have it done professionally.

If you’re ready to transform your home into the perfect summertime oasis with a pool, call on the experienced pros at San Diego Pools. We’re the swimming pool builder San Diego families have trusted for more than forty years to turn their dreams into reality. Give us a call today at 888-707-7786 to learn how our innovative designs and high-quality custom construction can be ideal for you and your family.