Opening Your Rhode Island Swimming Pool

 

Doing it the right way can mean the difference between a summer of fun and a summer of headaches! Follow these easy and important steps to ensure a smooth, carefree pool opening in the spring. And remember, your local BioGuard® Dealer is always ready to assist with information tailored to your specific pool care needs.

 

1. Remove pool cover

Drain off any accumulated water on the cover away from your pool. Once removed, clean with BioGuard Stow-Away® to prevent sticking and odors. Store in a dry place, free of debris and protected from the sun and weather.

 

2. Fill your pool

Your pool should be filled to the middle of the skimmer opening to allow for proper circulation.

 

3. Check your pump, skimmer basket and filter

After your circulation is running, add Pool Opening Complete.

 

4. Get your water tested

Be sure to circulate pool water 24 to 48 hours before taking a water sample. Use a clean plastic container, provided by your BioGuard Dealer, to scoop from elbow-depth (away from skimmers and returns) about one quart of water. Seal the container and take it to your BioGuard Dealer for testing and analysis.

BioGuard pioneered the idea of computerized water analysis. Over the past 25 years, we have used our resources to research, develop and refine the science of water analysis. Today ALEX, our computerized water analysis system, provides accurate results almost instantly. You will receive personalized instructions for starting your pool with step-by-step instructions.

 

5. Test sanitizer and pH

You can test sanitizer and pH yourself using the BioGuard 1200V Test Kit or BioGuard Test Strips to check free chlorine, total bromine residuals and pH levels and Total Alkalinity. Use the following chart to determine proper levels.

Free Chlorine residual: 1.0 to 4.0 ppm

Total Bromine residual: 1.0 to 4.0 ppm

pH: 7.4 to 7.6 is ideal range (7.2-7.6 is acceptable)

Total Alkalinity: 125 to 150 ppm (or 80 to 150 ppm for saltwater pools)

Calcium Hardness (plaster and SoftSwim® pools): 200 to 275 ppm

Calcium Hardness (all other types): 175 to 225 ppm

 

6. Routine maintenance

Routine maintenance is the best way to maintain your pool. And with BioGuard’s easy-to-use BioGuard 3-Step Care System, it’s as easy as 1-2-3! We even have a non-chlorine system, SoftSwim®, and salt-based systems including Mineral Springs® and SaltScapes®. We have you covered!

Blog originally appeared on: https://www.bioguard.com/pool-answers/pool-care-basics/opening-your-pool

 

ABOUT THE COMPANY

The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island is the leading full-service pool and spa company in Rhode Island. Their business had its beginnings in 1987 when co-owner Ron Leclerc began selling pool supplies out of the back of his Camaro. In 2001, Ron and his wife Debbie opened their 7,000 square foot facility in Coventry. This extensive and beautiful showroom is the result of years of hard work and represents a long-standing tradition of excellence and commitment to giving Rhode Islanders the best pool and spa service, advice, and products.

From installing vinyl liner inground swimming pools to selling gorgeous Dimension One hot tubs to offering free water-testing and professional service in their store, The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island is your place for everything pool and spa. They are a proud BioGuard Platinum Dealer and also offer a huge selection of other brands of swimming pool and hot tub supplies, including Loop-Loc Pool Safety Covers, above ground pools, and Hayward equipment. But, more than anything, The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island strives to give their customers a wonderful experience from beginning to end.

Visit The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island at 2200 Nooseneck Hill Road in Coventry or at splashtime.com or give them a call at (401) 392-1300. They serve all of Rhode Island, including Coventry, West Greenwich, East Greenwich, North Kingstown, South Kingstown, Exeter, Richmond, and Hopkinton.