As the snow melts and temperatures rise, it’s time to prepare your pool for another summer of fun. New Hampshire’s harsh winters can leave pools with debris, chemical imbalances, and winter damage, making it essential to know how to open a pool properly. By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll ensure your pool is ready for crystal-clear water and worry-free swimming.
Step 1: When to Open a Pool in New Hampshire
Timing is everything when it comes to pool open a pool. The best time to open a pool in NH is late April to early May, depending on the weather. If you wait too long, warmer temperatures can promote algae growth, leading to cloudy green water that requires extra chemicals to fix. A good rule of thumb is to open your pool when daytime temperatures consistently reach 50°F or higher.
Why Open Early?
✔ Prevents algae from taking over the water
✔ Saves money on excessive chemicals to clear up cloudy water
✔ Gives you more time to enjoy the pool when summer arrives
Step 2: How to Remove and Store a Pool Cover
If you use a solid or mesh winter cover, take these precautions to avoid dumping debris into the pool:
- Remove leaves and standing water with a pool cover pump or a soft broom.
- Slowly and carefully remove the cover to prevent any leftover debris from falling in.
- Clean and dry the cover before storing it in a cool, dry place to prevent mildew and damage.
Step 3: How to Inspect and Reassemble Pool Equipment
Before starting your pool system, check that everything is in working order:
✔ Reconnect the pump, filter, heater, and other equipment if they were winterized.
✔ Check for cracks or leaks in pipes, skimmers, and fittings caused by freezing temperatures.
✔ Reinstall ladders, handrails, and diving boards securely.
✔ Inspect the filter and clean or replace cartridges and DE grids as needed.
Step 4: How to Refill and Circulate Pool Water
Winter evaporation may have lowered your pool’s water level. Use a garden hose to refill the pool until it reaches the correct level (about halfway up the skimmer). Once full:
✔ Turn on the filtration system and allow the water to circulate for 24–48 hours.
✔ Check for air bubbles in the pump, which may indicate an air leak.
✔ If using a heater, wait until water is properly balanced before turning it on.
Step 5: How to Test and Balance Pool Water Chemistry
New Hampshire’s winters can alter water chemistry due to snowmelt, rain, and debris. Testing and balancing your pool water is crucial. Use a reliable test kit to check the following levels:
✔ pH (7.2–7.6) – Prevents corrosion and irritation.
✔ Alkalinity (80–120 ppm) – Stabilizes pH levels.
✔ Chlorine (1-3 ppm) – Kills bacteria and keeps water safe.
✔ Calcium Hardness (200–400 ppm) – Prevents scaling and equipment damage.
Pro Tip: Bring a water sample to Paquette Pools & Spas for free in-store water testing to get precise results and product recommendations.
Step 6: How to Shock a Pool When Opening
Even if the water looks clear, shocking the pool helps kill bacteria, break down contaminants, and prevent algae growth. Follow these steps:
Choose the right shock treatment:
- Chlorine shock: Ideal for removing bacteria and algae (use in the evening for best results).
- Non-chlorine shock: Good for regular maintenance without adding chlorine levels.
✔ Follow dosage instructions based on pool size.
✔ Run the pump for 24 hours after shocking to distribute chemicals evenly.
✔ Wait 24-48 hours before swimming and test water levels again before use.
Step 7: How to Clean a Pool After Opening
After the pool has circulated, it’s time for deep cleaning:
✔Skim the surface to remove leaves and debris.
✔ Brush the pool walls and floor to loosen dirt and algae buildup.
✔ Vacuum the pool manually or with an automatic cleaner to remove fine debris.
✔ Check and empty the skimmer and pump baskets regularly.
Step 8: Final Pool Safety Check & Pool Accessories
Before you start swimming, do a final safety inspection:
✔ Check your pool fence and gate to ensure they meet safety regulations.
✔ Inspect pool lights and electrical components for any issues.
✔ Make sure ladders, railings, and diving boards are securely fastened.
✔ Stock up on essential supplies like chlorine, test kits, and skimmer nets.
How to Open a Pool with Ease
A proper pool opening saves time, money, and frustration throughout the summer. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your pool is clean, balanced, and ready for fun.
Need Professional Pool Opening Services?
Let the experts at Paquette Pools & Spas handle the work for you! We provide water testing and a wide range of pool supplies to keep your pool in top shape all season long.
📍 Visit us in Hooksett, NH or call us at (603) 622-4941 today!
