EMERALD POOL & PATIO EUGENE & BEND, OREGON Serving Oregon Since 1955

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POOL TIPS #3

START-UP AND WATER CARE TIPS FOR OPENING YOUR POOL

Warm weather is here and starting up your pool the right way can mean the difference between a summer of fun and a summer of headaches! Follow these important (and easy) steps to ensure a smooth, carefree pool opening in the spring. And remember, Emerald Pool & Patio is always ready to assist with information tailored to your specific pool care needs.

1.  Remove pool cover (skip this step for new pools)

Drain off any accumulated water on the cover away from your pool. Once removed, clean with a product like our BioGuard Stow-A-Way® to prevent sticking and odors. Store in a dry place, free of debris and protected from the sun and weather.

2.  Fill your pool

Your pool should be filled to the middle of the skimmer opening to allow for proper circulation.

3.  Check your pump, skimmer basket & filter

4.  Get your water tested

Be sure to circulate pool water 24 to 48 hours before taking a water sample. Using a clean plastic container (or better still, one that your dealer provides), scoop about one quart of water from elbow-depth. Seal the container and take it to your local Emerald Pool & Patio store for testing and analysis.

Our computerized water analysis system provides accurate results almost instantly. You receive personalized instructions for starting the pool. Help keep your water perfectly balanced by bringing in a water sample at least once every month during the pool season.

5.  Test sanitizer & pH levels

You can test sanitizer and pH levels yourself using a BioGuard 1200V Test Kit or Test Strips to check free chlorine, total bromine residuals and pH levels and Total Alkalinity. Use the following chart to determine proper levels.

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE:

Routine maintenance is the best way to maintain your pool. And with one of Emerald Pool & Patio's easy-to- use 3-step pool care programs, it's as easy as 1-2-3! We even have non-chlorine system-options with products such as the BioGuard SoftSwim® Program or Baqucil line of chlorine-free products if you prefer pool care that doesn't use chlorine to sanitize!

QUESTION: When should I open my pool for the summer? 
ANSWER: Pool opening should begin when overnight temperatures remain above freezing and daytime temperatures remain above 60 degrees. When you are ready, we recommend these easy steps:
 
1. Remove pool cover and drain any accumulated water away from pool.
 
2. Fill your pool to the middle of the skimmer opening to allow for proper circulation.
 
3. Check your pump, skimmer basket and filter.
 
4.Circulate pool water 24 to 48 hours, and then take a water sample to any of our 9 locations for testing and analysis. Our computerized water analysis system provides accurate results almost instantly. You receive personalized instructions for starting the pool.
 
5. Test sanitizer & pH routinely.
 
6. Routine maintenance is the best way to keep your pool sparkling.
 
We can help you choose the right products that will get you and your family enjoying the pool in time for that first warm and sunny day.

VACATION PREPARATION:

While on vacation, debris and bacteria can collect in your pool and upset the water balance. Consider a "vacation plan" to prevent problems so you can come home to a clear pool and not a messy surprise.

1. Contact your Emerald Pool & Patio store in Eugene or Bend, Oregon,  for a vacation maintenance plan.

2. Clean your pool thoroughly, brushing and vacuuming walls and floors.

3. Test pool water and make sure it's properly balanced. Anything that's out of balance-total alkalinity, pH, calcium hardness-will likely get worse when left unattended.

4. Run your pump at least eight hours a day to help prevent algae and bacteria growth. (Either set your timer or ask a neighbor to turn it on and off).

5. Upon returning, have Emerald Pool & Patio perform a water analysis to ensure that your pool is properly balanced and ready for swimming.

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION