FREE Pool Opening Class
Learn the Pool Opening Process
Opening a pool can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and equipment, it doesn’t have to be. Classic Pool Spa and Hearth has everything you need to get your pool open, up, and running in no time. We provide free computer-analyzed complimentary water testing so that you know exactly what chemicals are needed for your specific pool.
Saturday, May 13th 2023
10:00 AM
20945 SW Tualatin Valley Hwy, Beaverton, OR 97003
17300 SE 82nd Drive, Clackamas, OR 97045
Our pool experts will be on hand during our Pool Opening event at both east and west Portland area locations. Bring a sample of your pool water and all your questions. We have been putting fun in Portland area backyards since 1979.
Visit one of our locations today and let us help get your pool open and ready for the summer.
The process of opening a pool for the summer can be challenging. It can be difficult to determine where to start and what has to be done before your pool for clean clear and ready for swimming.
Free Computerized Pool Water Testing
Classic Pool Spa and Hearth has got you covered! We offer free computer-analyzed complimentary water testing so you can rest assured knowing your pool is safe for swimming. Our experts will help guide you through every step of opening your pool, from inspecting any damage that may have occurred over winter, cleaning debris out of the bottom of the pool if needed, assembling equipment and attaching hoses, vacuuming dead algae out onto the ground after adding shock treatment and algaecide treatment – we’ve got it all covered! With our help, opening up your pool this summer will be easy breezy!
DIY Pool Opening
How to Open Your Pool and Hot Tub
Begin by removing any standing water off your pool cover so that it doesn’t spill back into the pool. Carefully remove your pool cover. Sweep the cover and lay it out to dry. Spray water the cover down and clean with TSP or a comparable cover cleaner. Once completely dry, fold and store the cover in a clean, dry place out of sunlight. Inspect the entire pool carefully for damage that may have taken place during the off-season. Especially leaks or tears in the vinyl liner or breaks and cracks in the plaster or tiles. If needed, clean the waterline with a surface cleaner that is appropriate to your pool surface type. If there are stains, consult a pool expert from Classic Pool Spa and Hearth to explore remedies. After inspection and any surface cleaning that needs to be done, add water until the level reaches about halfway up the skimmer opening. Remove any debris with a leaf net or leaf-type vacuum.
Pool Opening Equipment
Assemble your equipment. Attach hoses, and re-install plugs in your pumps, filters, and heaters. Replace the lid on your hair and lint pot. Close the bleeder valve on your heater. Return eyeball fittings, skimmer, and skimmer baskets to the appropriate location.
Remove any plugs from returns and skimmers. Fill equipment with water, open valves, and start the system (not the heater). NOTE: If the pool has not been covered and has debris in the bottom, use a leaf-type vacuum to remove debris. DO NOT attempt to vacuum debris through the filtration system!
Check for leaks in the equipment. O-rings, gaskets, and pump seals may need to be replaced or lubed.
Pool and Spa Filters
If the filter was not cleaned at the end of the previous season, clean using a filter cleaner in order to remove hardened deposits which can hamper filter performance. Follow directions for sand or cartridge filters on the bottle. Brush the pool walls and floor. If your pool water is clean proceed.
Vacuum the pool. Run the circulation system for 6 to 8 hours. Then bring a water sample to either East or West-side Classic Pool Spa and Hearth location for free computer-analyzed complimentary water testing. Hint: Make a list of the chemicals you have, including approximate amounts of each. This will save you a trip! Following the instructions on the printout will help to ensure your pool and hot tub is sparkling clean with clear water.
Complimentary Free Pool Water Testing
Before treating for algae, be sure there is no metal content in the water because the treatment may cause metals to stain the pool. You can do this by bringing a pint of water into one of our locations for free computerized water analysis.
The most precise way to test the water in your pool is with digital computerized testing, preferred by national pool and spa pros. The most cutting-edge and accurate wet chemistry measurement is provided by our specialized professional computerized water testing equipment. The pH should be between 7.2 and 7.8 ppm, and a desirable chlorine level is between 1.0 and 4.0 ppm (parts per million). We offer accurate testing as a free service because it can make a huge impact.
Pool Opening Chemicals
Shock the pool with Super Chlorinator (1lb. per 10,000 gallons) and an algaecide treatment (see label for manufacturer’s instructions). Add during the evening hours in order to achieve the best results. The pump and filter should be running, the filter should be on by-pass mode.
Immediately after adding chemicals, brush the pool walls and floor. Elbow grease goes a long way to helping your water become clean and clear. A settling (flocculating) agent can then be used to help remove the dead algae. Add a settling agent, circulate the pump for four hours, and shut the pump off overnight. Be sure to add additional water to the pool so the pump does not run dry.
With the filter on the waste position vacuum dead algae out onto the ground. Clean filters, brushes, all equipment and accessories, swimsuits, etc, to prevent algae from reoccurring.
Pool Opening Service, Maintenance, and Repair
In the event that you decide you would prefer to hire out the task of opening your pool or hot tub this season, our team of repair and maintenance Technicians is available and scheduling now.
With our help, you won’t have to worry about algae or metal staining ruining your perfect swimming experience this summer. Our experts will make sure that all of the necessary steps are taken so that your pool is sparkling clean with clear water when it’s ready for use.
Pool Opening Safety Tips
- Wear gloves and eye protection when handling pool chemicals.
- Keep chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
- Never mix chemicals together or add them at the same time.
- Read and follow the labels carefully.
Maintaining pool safety is essential to ensure a fun and safe swimming experience for you and your family. By prioritizing pool safety measures and following proper pool maintenance protocol, you can reduce the risk of pool-related injuries and fatalities. Remember to always supervise young children and make sure everyone who uses your pool knows basic swimming and safety techniques.
Resources for Pool Opening Safety
Consumer Product Safety Commission Pool Safety
National Drowning Prevention Alliance