5 Steps to Open Your Pool Without Overcomplicating It

Clean the cover and pool Skim debris off the winter cover, pump off standing water, then remove and store the cover dry. Reinstall plugs, fittings, and ladder, then fill the water to the correct level.

Vacuum, brush, and skim Clean the pool thoroughly until the water looks clear. Do this before adding any chemicals.

Balance alkalinity and pH first Test the water. Adjust alkalinity, then pH. Never shock before balancing—this is the most common mistake.

Shock the pool Use non-chlorine shock if you want to swim sooner. Run the filter for 24 hours, then test again.

Fix cloudiness or algae after shocking If the water is cloudy, keep filtering and add a clarifier. For algae, use algaecide after the shock. You can swim in two days.