When is the Best Time to Open My Pool?

It’s that time of the year! Spring is finally here! The weather is warming up, and the prime summer swim season is almost upon us. If this is your first season as a pool owner, or you just need an annual refresher, you may wonder when the best time is and what the best practices are for opening your pool. As a manufacturer of fiberglass pools, Thursday Pools does not install or maintain customers’ pools. However, we’re very familiar with pool-opening maintenance based on vast experience working with independent pool dealers, installers, and professionals across the country. 

 

 

The Best Time to Open Your Pool

 

Your pool opening and closing schedule will vary based on where you live. Once you’ve made it past the last dangers of a damaging freeze, it’s time to get ready. The sooner you open your fiberglass inground pool, the sooner you’ll have fun in the sun with all your family and friends.

 

How to Reopen a Fiberglass Pool

 

1. Check Your Water Level

What is the first thing you should do when opening a pool? You’ll need to check that your water level is up to the midway point on your skimmer before you remove your pool cover. Even with your pool tightly covered, your water level will likely lower over the winter. Groundwater levels are often at their highest in the spring, especially if you have a lot of snow in the winter. If groundwater pressure is unequalized, it can cause catastrophic damage to your fiberglass inground pool.

 

2. Remove Your Pool Cover

With your water level correct, pump off any water on the pool cover. Be sure to pump away from your pool so you aren’t just adding more groundwater around it. If you have a leaf blower, it might be helpful to blow off any leaves or other debris. After that, the process depends on which kind of pool cover you have:

 

• Automatic Pool Covers: Your pool opening will be easier if you have an automatic pool cover. Be sure to open it gradually with your touchpad, checking that your cover isn’t sticking or crooked in the tracks as you go. 
• Standard Winter Covers: Be sure to check your cover’s manufacturer’s instructions for proper removal practices. The cover will require cleaning and sanitation before storing it away for the fall’s pool closing. Removing your pool cover the wrong way can cause unwanted debris to fall into the pool and contaminate your water, adding to maintenance and cleaning needs.

 

 

3. Check Your Equipment

Once your water is at the proper level and your cover is off, you can turn on and check all your pool equipment. Pumps, filters, filter media, skimmer baskets, and lights sitting idle in the elements all winter might need tuning up or replacing. Before the summer swimming season fully kicks off is the best time to find out something needs attention. Most professional pool opening service providers will perform a complete check and alert you to any problem areas or necessary repairs. If all is working well, leave your pump on and let the water circulate for at least 12 hours.

 

 

4. Check Your Pool Water Chemistry

After your water has a chance to circulate, test the water chemistry for balance. Water balance can be more challenging at the start of the season. Whether or not you have a pool service pro open your pool, you might need help balancing your water after a long winter. Many swimming pool professionals provide computerized water analysis to test for water balance factors. It’s always a good idea to professionally test your pool water regularly to keep track of the most critical components for safe and healthy water. If you properly balance your water when opening your pool, you’ll have an easier time keeping your water chemistry in balance throughout the swim season. 

 

 

5. Give the Pool a Spring Cleaning

Ring in the new swim season by giving your pool’s surfaces a good scrub. Be sure to use a soft brush or sponge, and avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish. Next, it’s time to vacuum. Begin in the shallow end and work your way down the slope of the pool. Thoroughly clean around the steps and other crevices where debris can accumulate.

 

 

6. Inspect Your Safety Equipment and Pool Accessories

Take time in the spring to inspect, maintain, or replace safety equipment, pool accessories, and outdoor furniture so that you can relax with poolside peace of mind on opening day and all summer.

 

Looking for more information on opening your fiberglass pool and performing ongoing maintenance? Explore Thursday Pools’ Ultimate Fiberglass Pool Maintenance Guide for a thorough look at everything you need to know.

 

And if you’re ready for personalized advice, connect with a local independent Thursday Pools dealer near you.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Opening a Fiberglass Pool

 

1. When should I open my fiberglass pool in the spring?

Open your pool once the risk of hard freezes has passed. Opening early gives you more time to enjoy the season and makes water chemistry adjustments easier before the pool is in heavy use.

 

2. Do I need to refill my fiberglass pool before removing the cover?

Yes. If evaporation has lowered the water level over the winter, make sure it’s back to the midpoint of the skimmer before uncovering to protect the shell and ensure proper circulation.

 

3. How do I remove my pool cover without making a mess?

First, pump away standing water and clear debris with a blower or broom. Carefully follow your cover manufacturer’s instructions to avoid dumping dirty water and leaves into the pool.

 

4. What equipment should I check when reopening my pool?

Inspect your pump, filter, skimmer baskets, and lights for any signs of wear, leaks, or damage. If everything appears in good condition, start the system and let the pump run at least 12 hours to circulate the water. If you see problems, call a pool professional before operating the equipment.

 

5. Why is balancing water chemistry so important at pool opening?

Even if your pool was winterized correctly, chemistry shifts over months of inactivity. Testing and adjusting pH, chlorine, alkalinity, calcium, and CYA right away prevents staining or scaling and makes water easier to maintain all season.