Its Time To Check Your Pool Equipment And Add Ons
Now that you have removed the cover and cleaned up the mess, the next step is to fill the pool, check equipment and add chemicals, before you (and the kids) can dive in.
- The first things to do are to go find all the items you removed from the pool at shutdown. Clean as needed and replace. This will include reinstalling lights, eyeballs, ladders, handrails, skimmer baskets, etc. You may need to allow a day for all this work, depending on how fast you proceed and the extent of checking and cleaning, etc.
- The pump and related equipment should be checked over. Cleaned up if needed. And don’t forget to replace the winterizing frost plugs, carefully. Once down be ready to prime the pump also.
- Filers will need to be put back together. Hopefully, you left it clean before the winter started. If in doubt consult the owner’s manual for all the details so it’s back to gather in the correct way. Don’t forget to reinstall the filter tank drain cap, near its base.
- If you have a pool heater fitted this is a bit more complected to recommission. If in any doubt book a service technical (early as they will be very busy at this time) to come and check, clean, and restart for you. Best they come once your pool pump is up and running.
- Saltwater cells are generally removed for the winter and the reinstall should be quite straightforward. Just make sure you get the O rings replaced and lubricated (non-petroleum-based lube), the cell is affixed in the right direction ( of any arrows) and the wires reconnected to the controller. Note you will need to determine how much salt content is in the pool after the winter in order to add the correct amount on startup. Also, note that the pool water temperature will need to be high enough for the cell to function correctly.
- Pool lights will need to be carefully reaffixed as the plastic fitting and associated materials will be soft, after a few years of immersion. The screws (brass – bronze) are often part of the electrical bonding circuit so must be replaced with the same type, in order to carry out their electrical function. Take your time and be careful in reinstalling including the wires and do not damage any parts. Else replacements or whole new fittings will be needed.
- Pool ladders and handrails can be troublesome to re fix, especially if you are not so familiar with the techniques. Take your time and have the right tools to refasten the bolts etc.
