Spring is the perfect time to open your pool or hot tub after months of winter. At Ponds for People LeisureScapes, we’ve helped families across Waterloo, Kitchener, Cambridge, Guelph, and surrounding areas enjoy clean, safe, and sparkling pools for over 30 years. Follow our top 10 pool opening tips to prepare your backyard oasis for a summer full of fun.
1. Don’t Wait Too Long to Open Your Pool
Algae grows rapidly once temperatures rise above 15–20ºC. Begin your spring opening as soon as daily highs consistently reach this range to avoid a green, murky pool.
2. Remove Excess Water Before Taking Off the Pool Cover
Winter pool covers often collect rainwater, snowmelt, and debris. Use a submersible cover pump to remove excess water before lifting the cover. Always have a second person to help, and minimize debris falling into the pool. Minor debris can be vacuumed later.
3. Store Winterizing Accessories Properly
Proper care of your pool cover and winter accessories extends their lifespan. Clean and dry your cover to prevent mold and mildew, then store it loosely folded in a cool, dry location such as a basement, garage, or storage shed. Wherever you store your pool cover, watch out for mice! They can turn an expensive pool cover into swiss cheese over the summer.
4. Maintain Pool Equipment and Un-Winterize Plumbing
Reconnect all equipment, including:
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Pool filter and pump
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Heater
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Automatic pool cleaner
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In-line chlorinators
Lubricate o-rings and gaskets with silicone lubricant to ensure watertight performance. Remove winter plugs and refill the pool if needed. If antifreeze was used in plumbing, flush it out before turning on the system.
Upgrade your pool equipment: Visit our pool equipment store for energy-efficient pumps, filters, and accessories that improve performance and reduce maintenance time.
5. Use a Pool Opening Kit
A Pool Protect Opening Kit simplifies spring opening with all essential chemicals, including stain prevent, algaecide, and pool shock, saving you time and ensuring balanced water chemistry.
6. Treat Metals Early to Prevent Stains
Winter can cause copper, iron, and other metals to accumulate, leading to stains. Use Pool Protect Meta Stain Prevent early to neutralize metals and protect your pool walls and floor.
7. Balance Total Alkalinity First
Start your water testing with Total Alkalinity (TA) and pH:
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Total Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
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pH: 7.4–7.6
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Free Chlorine: 2.0–4.0 ppm
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Calcium Hardness: 200–400 ppm
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Cyanuric Acid: 30–60 ppm
Adjust TA first with Pool Protect Alkalinity Plus or Aqua Easy Acid, then correct pH, chlorine, and other chemistry levels. Always follow product instructions and keep the pump running for proper circulation.
8. Brush and Vacuum Thoroughly
Even with a winter tarp or lock-in cover, debris and algae may remain. Brush from the shallow end to deep end and vacuum to waste if possible. Run the filtration system overnight to prepare for chemical treatments.
9. Shock the Pool
Shocking your pool removes bacteria, algae, and winter contaminants. Aqua Super Shock is an excellent choice. Follow the product instructions for dosage, then allow circulation overnight.
10. Add Specialty Chemicals
After shocking, it’s time to start your normal weekly maintenance program. Check out our new Day and Night Kit for an easy program to keep your pool clear, healthy, and cost-efficient.
Bonus Tip: Professional Help from Ponds for People
Bring a water sample to our store for professional testing. Our experts provide a detailed report and step-by-step instructions, ensuring your pool is ready for summer fun.
Need hands-on help? Book a spring pool opening service with our seasoned technicians. From cleaning and chemical balancing to equipment checks, we can handle the hard work so you can enjoy a safe, sparkling pool all season.
Ponds for People LeisureScapes – your trusted Waterloo Region pool and hot tub experts. Visit our store or book a service today and make your backyard ready for an unforgettable summer.
