How to Get Your Pool in Swimming Shape

by Gillian Markson | More from this Blogger

16 Jun 2006 04:15 PM

Swimmers around the world face the labor-intensive task of getting their swimming pools in shape after winter. Many opt to hire a company to take care of the work. However, if you prefer to save money and go at it alone, here are some how-to steps to help get you up and swimming in no time.

First of all, there are two ways to close a pool down in the Fall. One way is to drain all of the water. The second way is to simply cover the pool up. With both ways, the first step is to retract the pool covering, which needs do be done with at least two strong people. Before you retract the pool cover, it is important that you first sweep away all of the leaves and excess water so that the cover is light and easy to fold.

To retract the pool covering, simply unhook each section of the covering so that the cover just rests on top of the pool. Next, you and your partner need to begin on the same end of the pool. Lift the corner of the cover and pull it (it will be heavy) across the pool until it meets with the corners on the opposite end of the pool.

Next, begin at the fold and pull it to meet the two corners that you met in step one. Repeat this task until the entire pool cover is folded. The cover will be very heavy and difficult to transport to storage. Usually, to move the cover, you will need to help of several strong people and a truck or cart.

Once the pool cover is away, you can proceed with the next steps towards opening your pool. If you have drained your pool for the winter, then your task is simple. All you need to do is remove the leaves and water build-up from the bottom of the pool. We recommend taking a hose and power-washing the walls of the pool as well, as bacteria and mildew may have grown in places. Once the pool is in tip-top shape, simply fill it with water and throw some chlorine pellets into the deep end to stabilize the PH levels.

If you left the water in your pool over the winter, you have a much more labor-intensive task at hand. With the help of a few friends or family members, it is manageable in about one week.

Start by "shocking" your pool water by pouring an entire bucket of chlorine into the pool. After 3-4 days, your pool water will be crystal clear and you will be ready to move on two the next steps.

The next step requires stirring the water. Use a vacuum to remove the leaves and debris that will have accumulated in the bottom of the pool at the deep end. These leaves and debris will be thick, so it may take awhile to remove all of them.

Next, skim the surface of the water for any leaves or pieces of debris that floated to the top during vacuuming. After you have completed these steps, your pool will be on its way to becoming a summertime paradise. Sit back, relax and enjoy!

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