After months of cold weather and snow, nothing feels more rewarding than opening your pool and preparing for a fresh season of relaxation, recreation, and backyard fun. But before you dive in, it’s essential to open your pool properly. Skipping crucial steps or rushing the process can lead to murky water, damaged equipment, or even costly repairs later in the season.

At Laguna Pools LLC, we believe a clean and efficient start sets the tone for a worry-free summer. Our Colorado spring weather can be unpredictable, which makes timing and preparation key. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or opening a new pool for the first time, this checklist will walk you through the essentials to ensure your water is sparkling and your system is running like clockwork.

Let’s get started with the first step: uncovering what’s beneath the cover.

Remove and Store Your Pool Cover

If you’ve used a winter pool cover to protect your investment, you’re already ahead of the game. But removing that cover takes care and attention to avoid turning your clean-up into a bigger chore than it needs to be.

How to Remove a Pool Cover Safely

Start by clearing off any standing water and debris with a cover pump and soft broom. Removing water ensures you won’t accidentally dump it into the pool as you lift the cover. A helper can make this easier and prevent dragging or tearing the material.

Once the water is off, slowly and evenly pull the cover back. Shake off any leftover debris away from the pool as you go.

Clean Before You Store

Don’t store a dirty or wet cover—it can develop mold, mildew, and odors by next fall. Hose it down thoroughly, scrub with a mild cleaner, and let it dry completely. Once dry, fold it neatly and store it in a sealed container or storage bag away from pests and moisture.

Avoid Common Pitfalls

  • Don’t drag the cover across the deck or lawn—this can wear it down prematurely.
  • Don’t skip cleaning—residue from leaves and chemicals can cause damage over time.
  • Don’t ignore damage—check for rips or UV damage so you can repair or replace it before next winter.

Removing and storing your pool cover the right way not only helps you start the season with clean water, but also extends the life of your cover—a win-win.

Inspect and Reconnect Pool Equipment

Once your pool is uncovered, it’s time to bring your equipment out of hibernation. If anything sat idle through the winter, it’s smart to inspect it closely for cracks, clogs, or corrosion before powering it on.

Checklist for Reconnecting Equipment

  • Pump: Make sure it’s dry, clean, and free of any rodent nests or debris.
  • Filter: Whether you have a cartridge, DE, or sand filter, check for wear and tear, and clean or replace parts as needed.
  • Heater: Examine hoses and fittings. Test for blockages before reconnecting to your pump system.
  • Valves, gauges, and fittings: Look for freeze damage or deterioration, especially in colder Colorado regions.

Take a moment to tighten all fittings, secure drain plugs, and lubricate o-rings with pool-safe lubricant to prevent leaks. If your pool has water features or automatic cleaners, reconnect those as well, checking for broken seals or blocked lines.

Priming the Pump

Once everything is reconnected, you’ll need to prime the pump—that means filling it with water to prevent it from running dry, which can damage the motor. Fill the pump basket and close the lid tightly.

Professional Tip: Know When to Call a Pool Tech

If anything looks questionable—or if your equipment doesn’t power on properly—don’t guess. Contact the professionals at Laguna Pools LLC. Our trained technicians can perform a full equipment inspection and make repairs before minor issues become expensive breakdowns.

Proper equipment setup now can prevent cloudy water, poor circulation, and the dreaded mid-season system failure. Take the time now to do it right—and set yourself up for a season of smooth sailing.

Clean Out Debris and Add Fresh Water

Once your equipment is reconnected, it’s time to address the pool itself. Even with a winter cover, chances are you’ll find leaves, dirt, or other debris that made their way in. Thorough cleaning at this stage is essential for clear, safe water.

Skim the Surface

Start with a skimmer net to remove leaves, twigs, and insects floating on the water’s surface. Pay extra attention to corners and around steps—areas where debris tends to collect.

Vacuum the Bottom

Use a manual pool vacuum or automatic pool cleaner to remove settled debris on the pool floor. If using a manual vacuum, be patient and work methodically from the shallow end to the deep end.

Scrub the Walls and Tile Line

Algae and dirt often cling to pool walls during the off-season. Use a nylon brush to scrub the sides, steps, and especially the waterline tile. This not only improves appearance but prevents algae growth and scale buildup.

Top Off the Water Level

If your water level dropped during the winter, now is the time to refill. Use a garden hose to bring the water level to the midpoint of the skimmer. Avoid overfilling, as this can interfere with skimming and circulation.

By removing physical contaminants and bringing your water up to the proper level, you give your filtration and chemical systems the clean slate they need to work efficiently.

Test and Balance Pool Chemistry

Once your pool is full and clean, the next step is to test and balance your water. Balanced pool chemistry is crucial not only for swimmer safety, but also for protecting your equipment and preventing problems like algae blooms, cloudy water, or skin irritation.

Use a Reliable Test Kit

We recommend using a liquid test kit or high-quality test strips to check for the following:

  • pH: Should fall between 7.2 and 7.6
  • Total Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
  • Chlorine (Free Available): 1–3 ppm
  • Calcium Hardness: 200–400 ppm
  • Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer): 30–50 ppm

Laguna Pools offers professional water testing for accurate results and treatment guidance—ideal for first-time pool owners or those unsure about chemical levels.

Balance One Step at a Time

Start by adjusting your total alkalinity, followed by pH, then sanitizer levels. Always add chemicals gradually and allow time for each adjustment to circulate fully before retesting. Follow manufacturer directions carefully and never mix chemicals.

Shock the Pool

After months of inactivity, your pool needs a shock treatment—a high dose of chlorine or other oxidizing agent that breaks down organic waste and kills bacteria. Run your filtration system for at least 24 hours after shocking, and wait until chlorine levels return to safe levels (1–3 ppm) before swimming.

Balancing your pool chemistry sets the stage for healthy, clear water—and keeps everything running efficiently throughout the season.

Start and Monitor Filtration System

With clean water and balanced chemistry, you’re ready to get your pool circulation system up and running. Proper circulation is what keeps your pool water from stagnating and helps distribute sanitizers evenly throughout the pool.

Start the Pump and Filter

Once your pump is primed, turn it on and check for:

  • Proper flow rate
  • Leaks around valves or unions
  • Unusual noises (squealing, rattling, etc.)

If everything sounds and looks normal, allow the system to run continuously for at least 24–48 hours. This extended circulation helps clear any remaining debris, distributes chemicals, and gives you a chance to observe your system’s performance.

Backwash (If Needed)

If you use a sand or DE filter, it’s a good time to backwash after the initial 24-hour circulation cycle. This helps remove fine particles and resets your filter media for optimal performance.

Monitor Pressure Gauges

Check the pressure gauge on your filter system. If it rises 8–10 PSI above the normal operating pressure, it may be time to clean or backwash the filter again.

Keep an Eye on Water Clarity

Even if your water looks clean at first, keep an eye on it over the next few days. If you notice cloudy spots, dead algae, or floating debris, your system may need more circulation or additional chemical balancing.

Check Pool Accessories and Safety Equipment

Once your water is balanced and your system is running smoothly, it’s time to inspect the finishing touches that make your pool fun, safe, and fully operational. Skipping this step could lead to safety hazards or interrupted pool time once the season is in full swing.

Examine Ladders, Railings, and Diving Boards

Hardware like ladders and handrails can become loose, rusted, or worn during winter. Check for:

  • Secure anchoring
  • Rust or corrosion
  • Sharp edges or cracks in plastic or rubber

Diving boards and slides should also be inspected for cracks and secure fittings. If the surface feels slippery or worn, consider resurfacing for safety.

Inspect Pool Lighting

If your pool features in-water or deck lighting, check each fixture:

  • Replace bulbs or batteries
  • Test electrical components before use
  • Make sure all GFCI outlets are functional

Lighting enhances both the safety and beauty of your pool—especially for evening swims—so don’t overlook these details.

Review Pool Alarms and Covers

If your home has young children or pets, pool alarms and safety covers offer essential protection. Test all alarm systems and repair or replace any that no longer function properly. Automatic pool covers should move smoothly and seal tightly; if not, call a technician for repair.

Check Fencing and Gates

Most municipalities in Colorado have specific regulations about pool fencing. Double-check that:

  • Gates latch and lock properly
  • Fence height complies with local codes
  • There are no gaps large enough for a child or pet to slip through

Safety gear isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your loved ones. Make any needed upgrades now to ensure peace of mind all summer long.

Schedule a Professional Pool Inspection or Maintenance Service

Even if you’re confident in your DIY pool skills, spring is the perfect time to schedule a professional inspection. A seasoned eye can spot issues that may be invisible to most homeowners—and prevent them from turning into expensive headaches later.

What a Professional Inspection Covers

When you book with Laguna Pools LLC, our spring pool inspections include:

  • A full review of your equipment: pumps, filters, heaters, and automation systems
  • Leak detection and pressure testing
  • Inspection of pool structure and decking
  • Water chemistry analysis and recommendations
  • Filter cleanings and initial vacuuming (if needed)

This kind of expert service ensures your system is working at peak performance from the get-go.

Save Time and Stress

Opening your pool yourself can be time-consuming, and if anything goes wrong, it could delay your season by days—or even weeks. Hiring Laguna Pools means your pool is ready for fun faster, without the stress of troubleshooting or trips to the pool supply store.

Preventative Maintenance Plans

Consider enrolling in one of our routine maintenance plans. These services include:

  • Weekly or bi-weekly cleanings
  • Consistent water testing and adjustments
  • Equipment checks and repairs

Our goal is to keep your pool crystal-clear all season long, so you can focus on swimming, not skimming.

Bonus Tips for Spring Pool Care

You’ve made it through the major steps of opening your pool—but maintaining that crystal-clear water throughout the spring takes a little ongoing attention. These bonus tips will help extend the benefits of a great start and keep your pool pristine as the season heats up.

Use a Pool Cover Between Swims

Even during swimming season, a pool cover is a useful tool. It prevents leaves, insects, and pollen from entering your pool and reduces evaporation—a major concern during dry Colorado springs. A solar cover can also help raise and retain water temperature naturally.

Watch for Algae Growth

Algae loves warmer temperatures and uncirculated water. Keep an eye out for:

  • Green or yellow tint in the water
  • Slippery pool walls or steps
  • Cloudy water or patches of discoloration

If you see early signs, shock the pool and brush surfaces immediately. Consistent circulation and chlorine levels are your best defense.

Maintain a Weekly Cleaning Schedule

A regular maintenance routine goes a long way:

  • Skim the surface daily or as needed
  • Brush walls and vacuum weekly
  • Backwash filter every 1–2 weeks (or as needed)
  • Test water at least once a week—twice during heavy use

Staying consistent with these habits will prevent most common pool issues and make your weekly upkeep much easier.

Mind the Weather

Colorado’s spring weather is unpredictable—sunny one day, freezing the next. After a snow or hailstorm, inspect your equipment and test your water chemistry. Sudden temperature shifts can affect chlorine levels and water clarity.

Enjoy Your Pool with Peace of Mind

Opening your pool for spring doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following this step-by-step checklist, you’ll not only save yourself time and frustration—you’ll also protect your investment and ensure a safe, sparkling start to the season.

Let’s recap the essentials:

  • Remove and store your cover the right way
  • Reconnect and inspect equipment before powering up
  • Clean out debris and restore water levels
  • Test and balance chemistry to protect swimmers and surfaces
  • Start the filtration system and monitor its performance
  • Check safety equipment and accessories for full functionality
  • Schedule professional maintenance with trusted pool experts

At Laguna Pools LLC, we help Colorado pool owners get ready for spring with expert care, reliable service, and personalized maintenance plans. Whether you need a full opening package or just a little help along the way, we’re here to make your pool season effortless and enjoyable.

Ready to open your pool the right way? Contact Laguna Pools LLC today to schedule your spring pool opening or maintenance service. Serving homeowners in: Denver, Aurora, Centennial, Littleton, Highlands Ranch, and surrounding areas with expert pool care across the Front Range.