Chemicals Needed for Pool Start Ups Stain & Scale Preventer Granular Shock Chlorine Chlorine Tablets pH Increaser and/or pH Decreaser Alkalinity and/or Calcium Increaser Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer) Algaecide and Clarifiers if needed
Full Answer
What chemicals do you need to start a pool?
The Perfect Chemical Balance for a Pool Start Up. To decide what chemicals you need to use to start up your pool, you need to know what you’re working with. This is a good target for pool water. pH – 7.2-7.6; Alkalinity – 80-120 ppm; Calcium Hardness – 180-220 ppm; Cyanuric Acid – 30-50 ppm; Chlorine – 1-3 ppm
What should you do after you fill your above-ground pool?
"Check the chlorine and the pH, or the bromine," Hlavsa says, when asked about what you should focus on after their above-ground pool is filled. "The chlorine is what kills or inactivates the germs in the water, and the CDC recommends one to ten parts per million.
What kind of water do you use to fill a pool?
City Water This is usually the best and most convenient water to use to fill your pool. It just involves hooking up your water hose and placing the other end directly into your pool. However, it’s not always the cheapest choice.
Can you use calcium hypochlorite to clean pool water?
Calcium hypochlorite quickly releases free chlorine into the water and is the best product for shocking. Follow the instructions on the container to make sure you add enough. Because this product can be harsh for swimmers, it's best to revert to sodium hypochlorite (pool chlorine or bleach) for routine sanitizing.
What chemicals do I need to add to a freshly filled above ground pool?
Once the pool is opened and the floor and walls have been brushed the first chemical you should add is chlorine to shock it. It's recommended you add a gallon of liquid chlorine or pound of granular chlorine for every 5,000 gallons of water in the pool. You can also add more chlorine at the end of the opening process.
What do you do when you fill your first above ground pool?
What Do You Do After an Above Ground Pool Is Filled With Water?Step 1: Learn about how to prevent drowning and pool chemical injuries. ... Step 2: Turn on the filter. ... Step 3: Vacuum and skim off debris. ... Step 4: Test the water, and then test it again. ... Step 5: Enjoy your pool, but safely!
Should I shock my pool when I first fill it up?
At first you'll add chlorine in what's called “shock” levels – an extra heavy dose to start your pool off. A shock dose coupled with extra circulation will ensure that all the water gets treated properly in the beginning.
What chemicals do I add when opening my pool?
4:165:24Which Chemicals Do You Need To OPEN A POOL? | Swim UniversityYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf your pool water is cloudy you'll want to double shock your pool. And that means adding two poundsMoreIf your pool water is cloudy you'll want to double shock your pool. And that means adding two pounds of chlorine shock for every 10 000 gallons of water. If you open up your pool to really green water
How much chlorine do I add to my pool for the first time?
If you're adding chlorine for the first time, add the amount of product required to achieve a free available chlorine level of 2 to 3 ppm. The instructions will let you know how much to use to raise levels by 1 ppm per 10,000 gallons (38,000 L) of water.
Do I add chlorine or stabilizer first?
Stabilizer is cyanuric acid. It's important that you get this right BEFORE adjusting the chlorine levels.
Should I add chlorine while filling pool?
The best practice for owners of new above-ground pools will be to allow them to filter out during normal use, and then they should also follow up by adding chlorine tablets directly into the water at least once per week.
How do I shock my pool for the first time?
1:152:16How To SHOCK a Swimming POOL | Swim University - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo let's pour the shock inside the pool. So that's it all you want to do is you want to pre-dissolveMoreSo let's pour the shock inside the pool. So that's it all you want to do is you want to pre-dissolve each bag in a bucket of water that means water first then put in the shock mix it up with a stick.
How do you open an above ground pool for the first time?
0:356:38How to OPEN An ABOVE GROUND POOL in 11 Steps | Swim UniversityYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipCover find a large clear area in your yard. And spread your pool cover flat wash your cover withMoreCover find a large clear area in your yard. And spread your pool cover flat wash your cover with water cover cleaner or car wash soap. And a scrub brush or rubber broom scrub it thoroughly.
What to do if pool test shows alkalinity?
If your pool’s initial test shows an incorrect amount of alkalinity, then you need to add some chemicals to fix it. It doesn’t matter if it was too high or too low, chemicals are going to be needed. This should be the first chemical that you add to your pool during start-up.
What to do if your pool pH is too high?
If your alkalinity is too high, then you will need to use pH decreaser to lower it. This will affect the overall pH level in your pool, so it is best to do this before adjusting that level. This should avoid causing more problems.
Why does my pool build up over time?
Most pools should have very little of this in them at start up. This builds up over time because of the chlorine added . The stabilizers are in the chemicals that you add to your pool water. These accumulate in your pool and affect the water.
Why is pH important in a pool?
Your pH level is really important for keeping your pool in good working order. If this is off, then your chlorine won’t be working properly which can lead to unsafe water and too much chlorine.
Why is my pool water acidic?
It increases the pH level of your pool water! If your pH level is too low, then you need to add this to your pool. Otherwise, your water is too acidic. Not only is this not great for swimming in, but it can become corrosive. If your pH level is too low for too long, this can impact the rest of your pool’s maintenance.
Does calcium affect pool pH?
Calcium Adjusting Chemicals for Pool Start Up. After addressing your pool’s alkalinity and pH level, you need to asses the calcium levels in your pool. Calcium isn’t typically a concern for ongoing pool maintenance. However, it does need to be assessed regularly, and this includes pool start up.
Do you need stabilizer for free chlorine?
Stabilizer. You only need to add this chemical if you’re using free chlorine. However, quite a lot of people do use this type of chlorine for pool start up. You should add Stabilizer to bring your level up to 30 ppm to protect free chlorine that you’ve added into your pool.
What is the best chemical to use for a pool?
Sanitising Your Pool. The next start-up chemical you will need is sanitiser, the most common of which is chlorine . Chlorine comes in many easy-to-use forms – solid tablets, liquid and granules – and is available from several retail outlets.
How long after you start a pool should you add chemicals?
IMPORTANT NOTE: ALWAYS ADD THE CHEMICAL TO THE WATER, NEVER WATER TO THE CHEMICAL. The first couple of weeks after starting up your pool is the time to make sure everything is running right. You will need to check your water readings more often in the beginning.
Why do you shock a pool?
Keep swimmers out of the pool while shocking, as chlorine at elevated levels can irritate mucous membranes and cause general discomfort.
How to prevent a bowl ring in a pool?
Based on temperature and type of finish, fill the pool to the middle of the skimmer or specified water level without interruption and as rapidly as possible with clean water, to help prevent a bowl ring. Be sure to place the hose in the deepest area with a clean rag on the end to prevent damage to the surface material.
What is the pH of a pool?
pH directly affects a whole variety of factors, and a good pH falls within a narrow band of 7.2 – 7.6. Follow the recommended amount (based on your pool volume size), add the amount you need and then re-test after the one full turnover (usually 12 hours).
When to start filtration system for pool?
Start the filtration system immediately when the pool is filled to the middle of the skimmer or specified water level. Your local water supply may be acidic, murky, extremely hard or even cloudy. Once your pool is full, test the water using your test kit or test strips to get a good idea of what you’ll be working with.
Can you use algaecide on algae?
Lastly, make sure you add some algaecide for good measure. Most people think algaecide is only for when you see algae. However, it should also be used as a preventative treatment. Use an algaecide before you have a need for it, and keep the nasties at bay.
How often should I run my filtration system?
Run your filtration system constantly for the next few days and thereafter at least 8-12 hours per day or as needed to maintain sparkling clean water. Test daily and maintain sanitizer and balance levels. Your on-going maintenance will depend on the method of sanitation you have chosen.
What is the best way to kill algae?
While there are many ways to kill algae and bacteria, we especially like the mineral purifier method. Instead of high levels of chlorine, cyanuric acid or other harsh chemicals, mineral purifiers utilize copper and silver or copper and zinc to kill algae and bacteria.
Can you mix chemicals before retesting?
Never mix different chemicals and always allow for complete circulation before re-testing. Follow directions on your test kit or bring us a water sample for testing and analysis. While pool is filling, add a chelating, sequestering agent such as Sparkle Conchelate per label directions for initial dose.
When to add chlorine shock?
Add chlorine shock when the sun is not directly overhead. Add algaecides last, after chlorine level drops below 3 ppm. See our Pool Start-Up Kits for all the chemicals needed. Once the pool is opened, you will need to circulate, filter, clean and treat the pool water - every day.
How to add stain and scale to pool?
Add Stain & Scale chemical first, especially for new plaster. Add one chemical at a time, using a pool brush to distribute. Run filter pump while adding chemicals to circulate. Re-test the pool water after 8 hours of filter run time. Add chlorine shock when the sun is not directly overhead.
What to do if your TA is above 120?
If your TA is above 120 ppm, use pH Decreaser to reduce levels within range. pH Adjustments: When pH is too low, your chlorine works very well, but when it dips below 7.0, the water becomes acidic and slightly corrosive.
What is granular chlorine?
Granular chlorine (pool shock) is most often used to quickly raise the chlorine to levels high enough to oxidize (destroy) any contaminants, pathogens and combined chlorine molecules. Follow label directions for dosage and treatment guidelines for freshly filled pools.
How to find the water balance of a pool?
To find out the water balance of your source water, just use a pool test kit or test strips. Be sure that your kit or strips are fresh, last years supply may produce inaccurate results.
Does tap water stain pool?
That depends on the water balance of your source water - some tap water makes excellent pool water, while other sources need major adjustment, for water balance that works well with chlorine and won't stain, scale, fade or corrode your soft and shiny pool surfaces.
Can you use a garden hose to fill a pool?
Most people opt for the garden hose pool filling method, often using two hoses where possible. If your water is from a well, or if your source water contains silty dirt, minerals and metals, or high levels of chloramines or phosphates, you can filter the water as you fill the pool. Pleatco's pool fill pre-filter handles up to 40,000 gallons, ...
What is the best water to fill a pool?
City Water. This is usually the best and most convenient water to use to fill your pool. It just involves hooking up your water hose and placing the other end directly into your pool. However, it’s not always the cheapest choice. City or municipal water bills can be quite high and the bigger your pool, the higher the cost.
What happens if you can't get to your pool?
If they make the trip out and can’t reach your pool, you’ll probably still be charged at least part of the fee. Next, make sure your pool is as clean as you can get it. No sense wasting time fighting off contaminants after it’s full. You’ll have plenty of time to do that the rest of the summer.
How to figure out how much water a pool holds?
If you decide to go this route, it’s best to figure out how much water your pool holds by checking out your owner’s manual or calling the manufacturer. Then, call your city water department and ask them for an estimate.
Should I fill my pool with city water?
And in areas where city water is your only choice for filling your pool, I highly suggest that you don’t fill your pool without first finding out the cost. If you can swing the cost, city water is the best choice for your pool because it’s already balanced and safe for consumption. Not that you’ll be drinking your whole pool, ...
Is it hard to find water for a pool?
Finding water for your pool isn’t usually a difficult task . The choice you make will just depend on what’s available to you. And if you have multiple options, it might boil down to which one’s the cheapest.
Can well water go dry?
Secondly, wells can go dry. It happens all the time. And filling up a swimming pool will use a huge amount of your supply. If you already use well water on your property, you probably already know the risks, but it’s still something to consider if you hadn’t thought of it before.
Can you drink your pool?
Not that you’ll be drinking your whole pool, but if it’s safe for consumption, it’s safe for swimming . You still might have to add some chlorine to begin with, but you won’t be fighting all the contaminants you might find in other sources.
What to do if pool pump fails?
If the pump fails to start, check that the power supply is good and the GFCI outlet is not tripped. Next, check that the shaft and impeller spins freely.
What to check before opening Leslies pool?
Before shocking your above ground pool or using a Leslies’s Pool Opening Kit, it is important to test and adjust the water levels for pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, and cyanuric acid (chlorine stabilizer).
Can you shock an above ground pool?
After the pool is balanced, particularly the pH and cyanuric acid levels, it’s time to shock the pool. Above ground pools can use chlorine or non-chlorine shock. But for heavy algae removal or first time start-ups, chlorine shock is best. Be sure to pre-dissolve it in a bucket before adding to the pool.
Can you fill an above ground pool with water?
Once the filtration system is put back together, you can fill your above ground pool up to mid-skimmer level to continue the opening or start-up process. As the pool fills and the filter system is flooded with water, look for any water leaks in the filter hoses, valves, pump, and filter equipment. Take a slow walk around to look for any wet areas ...
What to check before filling a pool?
Before first filling a pool or adding substantial amounts of fresh water to the pool, either test the water using a good quality test kit or have it tested for pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness and stain producing metals.
When to add sequestering agent to pool?
In cases where the pool is being completely filled , be certain to add a good sequestering agent as soon as the filling process begins. If the pool is already full, add the sequestering agent before any other steps are followed. This will tie up and inactivate any stain producing metals that may be in the fill or pool water.
How to prevent leaves falling in pool?
2. In cases where the pool is being reopened and was covered all winter, remove the cover carefully so as to avoid having any leaves or other debris fall into the pool. Sweep up and remove as much material as possible that may have accumulated in the pool during the off-season. 3.
What is the basic maintenance of an above ground pool?
Above ground pools, like in-ground pools, need basic care and maintenance. Mainly, cleaning, filtering, water testing, chemical levels, and protecting the structure. Above ground pool care and maintenance is just as much work as cleaning your in-ground pool. Tools are all the same as are the technics behind them.
What to use to catch debris from pool floor?
Your wall skimmer will catch most of the floating debris, but it can easily get overwhelmed with a small wind storm. A bag type of leaf rake will work best if you have lots of leaves to catch and it can also handle scooping debris from the pool floor.
How much chlorine should I use in a pool pump?
It is recommended that you keep at least 1.0 ppm (parts per million) chlorine around the clock to prevent algae and bacteria from developing.
Why is my pool water cloudy?
This is especially true in the summer when the hot summer sun causes the chlorine to break down rapidly . No one likes a green murky pool, so be sure to turn up the time on your pool pump during the summer months.
How often should I check my chlorine level?
Besides testing your chlorine level, check pH and Total Alkalinity once or twice a week as well. Add pool pH or alkalinity when the levels are too low or too high.
What can damage a pool liner?
Your pool equipment is made to be tough as it is meant to be kept outdoors in the elements all year long, but falling tree limbs and flooding can cause major damage to your equipment.
How often should I test my water?
When starting out, you may need to test your water as often as a few times per week, to be certain that your chlorine level is consistent and to determine if you need to adjust your chemicals. You can either use test strips or a test kit to test your water.
