Believe it or not, Spring Break is just around the corner. The kids will be out of school, the Texas weather will warm up, and the first thing they’ll want to do is jump in the pool. 

But is your pool ready for them? 

After a few months of cooler temperatures and sporadic use, your pool might need a little TLC before it’s ready for the “cannonball” test. Don’t wait until the kids are standing on the edge in their swimsuits to find out the heater isn’t working or the water is cloudy. Use this quick checklist to get your backyard swim-ready now. 

The Great Debris Clean-Up 

Winter winds have likely deposited a fair share of leaves, twigs, and pollen into your water. 

• Skim and Vacuum: Start by removing all floating debris, then thoroughly vacuum the floor. Organic matter (leaves) eats up your chlorine, making it harder to balance the water later. 

• Empty the Baskets: Check your skimmer baskets and the pump basket. If these are clogged, your water circulation suffers, and your equipment works overtime. 

Equipment Health Check 

If your equipment has been running on “freeze protect” mode or sitting idle, give it a full inspection. 

• Check the Flow: Turn on your pumps and check the water flow. If the pressure gauge on your filter is running high (usually 8-10 psi above clean starting pressure), it’s time to backwash or clean your filter cartridges. 

• Inspect for Leaks: Look around your equipment pad for any puddles or dripping pipes. 

• Re-assemble (If needed): If you had to drain your equipment during a harsh freeze or power outage, ensure all drain plugs (on the heater manifold, pump pot, and filter) are reinstalled tightly and that the air relief valves are closed before starting the system. 

• Power Up: Ensure all breakers are turned on completely, and the system is cycling correctly. 

Balance the Water Chemistry 

Clear water doesn’t always mean clean water. Temperature fluctuations can throw off your chemistry. 

• Test Everything: Don’t just check for chlorine. Test your pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. 

• Shock It: If the pool has been dormant, giving it a shock treatment is a good way to kill off any lingering bacteria or algae spores that might bloom once the sun hits the water. 

• Salt Cells: If you have a saltwater pool, inspect the salt cell for calcium buildup and clean it if necessary. Remember, salt cells often won’t produce chlorine until the water temperature rises above ~60°F. 

Safety Sweep 

Before the chaos of Spring Break begins, do a quick safety audit. 

• Gates and Fences: Ensure all gates self-latch and self-close properly. 

• Drain Covers: Check that the main drain covers at the bottom of the pool are secure and not cracked. 

Beat the Rush 

The first week of warm weather is the busiest time for pool service companies. If you spot an issue, like a heater that won’t fire or a pump that’s making a strange noise. Call for service today. 

Taking an hour this weekend to run through this checklist ensures that when the final school bell rings, your only job is to grab a towel and enjoy the break.