When Can I Open My Swimming Pool in Texas?

As summer approaches, you may start thinking about opening your swimming pool. Here in Texas, we begin to reach ideal pool temperatures in April and sometimes as early as mid-March. Once temperatures start to hit 70 degrees F consistently, it is time to get your swimming pool ready to open for the season.

Is There an Ideal Time to Open My Swimming Pool?

While you can open your pool anytime the temperatures are high enough, there are benefits to opening it early in the season. By opening your pool as soon as temperatures are consistently above 70 degrees F, you are more likely to avoid algae growth. Once temperatures rise, algae are likely to begin growing in your pool if it has not been properly opened.

Algae are notoriously difficult to get rid of, particularly once an overgrowth has begun. Consider opening your pool as early as possible to avoid having a green pool this summer.

By opening your pool early, you also allow yourself time to get any unexpected maintenance and repair items out of the way. If you find that your pumps aren’t functioning correctly or need to replace your filter, you will still have plenty of time to get those tasks done before you are ready to use your pool. 

The other benefit to opening your pool early is that it will be ready for use before the overbearing heat of summer arrives. This means you will not only have your pool ready on-demand this summer, but you get a more extended pool season as well.

What Do I Need to Open My Pool?

Opening your pool for the summer shouldn’t be a daunting task as long as you have the right supplies. Plan ahead and make sure you have what you need before you are ready to get your pool going for the season.

If you drained your pool for the winter, you should start by removing the cover and giving it a good clean. Next, clean and scrub the pool liner to ensure any dirt or growth has been eliminated. This is also a good time to clear out any filters or pumps if you haven’t already. Once your pool is clean and prepped, you can start filling your pool with water.

If you did not drain your pool (which isn’t always necessary in Texas), you will start by cleaning the water, checking filters and pumps, and jumping straight to adding the essential pool balancing and shock chemicals. 

Regardless of where your water source is from, you will need to add balancing chemicals to adjust the pH, water hardness, and total alkalinity. After adding chemicals, be sure to use test strips to verify that you have all of your levels correct. This is also a good time to add shock to your pool to discourage any growth and keep your water clear. 

Finally, you should do final tests on your pumps and equipment to make sure they are ready to perform all summer. Stocking up on the pool chemicals you will need for the season should be done at this point to ensure you don’t run out and have them on hand as needed. Visit Bonnie & Clydes Pools and Spas for all of your pool chemical needs.  

Opening your pool for the summer can be an exciting time. For many, this is the kick-off to a long-awaited summer season. Make sure the process goes smoothly by opening at the best time, purchasing the correct supplies ahead of time, and contacting Bonnie & Clydes Pools and Spas with any questions. Come in and see us today for all of your swimming pool opening needs!