Opening Your Pool

Tallman Pool’s Spring Pool Opening Guide for Mild-Winter Climates

When your pool has been partially winterized—meaning it stayed full of water, the equipment wasn’t fully shut down, and the plumbing wasn’t blown out—spring opening is simple. A little cleaning, a little balance, and you’re ready for swimming season.

This guide walks you through every step.

1. Clear Away Winter Debris

Start by giving the pool a quick refresh:

• Remove leaves and debris from the water
• Empty skimmer and pump baskets
• Brush the steps, walls, and waterline

A clean surface helps chemicals work more effectively.

2. Restore the Water Level:

Top off the pool until the water reaches the middle of the skimmer opening.

Winter evaporation can lower the level several inches, and proper water height is essential for priming the pump.

3. Restart the Equipment

Once the water level is correct:

• Prime the pump
• Turn on the filtration system
• Check for strong return flow
• Inspect for leaks around the pump, filter, and heater

If the pump struggles to prime, add water to the pump basket and try again.

4. Test and Balance the Water

Cold weather slows chlorine, so spring water often needs adjustment.

Balance in this order:

• Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
• pH: 7.2–7.4
• Calcium Hardness: <120ppm
• Chlorine: 1–3 ppm

If the pool has been unused for months, consider:

• A shock treatment- Use only non-Chlorine shock(MPS) or Liquid Chlorine
• A phosphate remover if algae is starting
• A metal sequestrant if you have iron or well water

5. Run the Pump Continuously for 24 Hours

This helps circulate chemicals evenly and clears out any winter contaminants.

After the first day, return to your normal pump schedule.

6. Clean or Backwash the Filter

Your filter likely collected debris during the winter.

• Cartridge filters: remove and rinse
• Sand filters: backwash and rinse
• DE filters: backwash and recharge with fresh DE

A clean filter dramatically improves water clarity.

7. Add a Spring Algaecide (Optional but Helpful)

A preventative algaecide gives you a head start before warm weather arrives.

8. Inspect the Pool and Equipment

Take a moment to check:

• The pool shell for stains or hairline cracks
• The pump lid o-ring
• Heater operation
• Pool lights and GFCI outlets

Catching small issues early prevents summer headaches.

9. Check the Water Inspection Port

Make sure to inspect your water inspection port for any groundwater.

*Pump out port if needed

Ready for Swimming Season

Reopening a partially winterized pool is quick and stress-free.

With clean water, balanced chemistry, and a freshly running system, your Tallman pool is ready for warm weather and long afternoons outside.