Pool Opening Checklist

Every step in order, with boxes to tick as you go. The reasons behind each step, and how much shock or acid your pool needs, are in the pool opening guide.

Prints on one page. Choose “Save as PDF” to keep a copy.

Pool opening checklist

Date ____________________Pool size (gal) ____________________

Cover and water

  • Pump standing water off the cover
  • Clear leaves and debris off the cover
  • Remove the cover, clean it, dry it fully before storing
  • Top up the water to mid-skimmerWater must be above every suction opening before the pump runs.

Equipment

  • Remove winterizing plugs from skimmers and returns
  • Put pump and filter drain plugs back in
  • Reinstall ladders, rails, return fittings
  • Check the heater is clear of debris and anything that could burn
  • Open all suction and return valves
  • Fill the pump's strainer pot with waterNever run the pump dry.
  • Secure the pump lid and filter lid or clamp
  • Stand clear of pump and filter; open air relief, start pump, close relief when water sprays
  • Check the pad for drips and leaks
  • Write down the clean filter pressure: ______ psiClean the filter when it reads 8–10 psi higher.

Clean and balance

  • Check test kit and chemicals aren't expired
  • Skim, brush walls and floor, vacuumVacuum to waste if there's a lot of debris or algae.
  • Test chlorine, pH, alkalinity, calcium, stabilizer
  • Adjust alkalinity first
  • Then adjust pH (7.4–7.6)
  • Shock the poolOne chemical at a time, pump running. Never mix acid and chlorine. Goggles and gloves.
  • Run the filter continuously until the water is clear

Before the first swim

  • Bottom and main drain clearly visible
  • Free chlorine at least 1 ppm (2 with stabilizer) and at or below the label's swim limit
  • Drain covers in place and undamaged
  • Fence and self-closing, self-latching gates working
  • Door alarms working
  • Pick a Water Watcher for every swim with kids
Notes (chemicals used, readings, parts to replace)

Pool Opening Checklist · SplashSense · www.splashsense.com/printables/pool-opening-checklist

More printables