Well, summer is here and it’s time to enjoy the outdoors, backyard barbecues and pool parties. Having a pool at home is the ultimate centerpiece for summer fun, and whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or new to the experience, it’s important to follow the right steps to get your pool ready for swimming.

 

1.Properly Clean Pool

If your pool has been sitting dormant for a few months since the end of the last swim season, it’s important you take time to fully clean your pool and equipment to ensure your pool is ready for action:

  • Remove the pool cover and any debris in and around the pool.
  • Clean out the pump basket and the skimmer basket to ensure proper water flow
  • Remove any plugs that were placed in the skimmer or return lines when you were closing it up at the end of last season.

 

2. Focus on the Water Quality

  • Make sure your pool filter is clean.  It may be necessary to replace filter elements or cartridges
  • Top off the water. The surface should be about halfway up the skimmer opening
  • Get your water professionally tested. Take a sample of your pool water to a swimming pool store; they will test it to make sure it is safe to swim in. Pool stores or dealers will often provide this service free of charge. The staff can let you know which chemicals need to be adjusted to make sure your water quality is perfect.

 

3. Carefully Inspect Your Equipment

  • Take time to inspect your equipment to ensure it’s well-maintained and in good service condition.
  • Look at your heater, filter, and pump to make sure nothing needs repair or replacement. 
  • Plumbing should be tight and free of leaks.

 

4. Create a Pool Cleaning Schedule

  • If you’ve chosen to maintain your pool yourself, make sure you set a schedule for cleaning and checking chemicals. 
  • Clean at least once a week, removing debris and dirt. 
  • Perform a chemical check two to three times a week, or more, if necessary, based on chemical readings.  Stick to your schedule!  It’s easier to keep a pool looking good than it is to fix problems once they occur.

 

5. Keep it Easy and Simple

If your equipment inspection reveals the need for a new heater, consider the smart, sleek AVIA with NiTek from Raypak. This unit will maximize your time so you can relax and enjoy your warm pool this summer without a worry from your heater. With wi-fi enabled controls and the smart Raymote app, you can manage your heater from any internet enabled device, like your phone or tablet.  Raymote allows you to turn the AVIA on or off, set temperatures, even get messages from the heater when there’s a problem.

 

Welcome to summer and enjoy your pool!