How to Open an Inground Pool Safely

How do you remove the winter pool cover safely?

Removing a winter pool cover without dumping a season of rotting leaves, mud, and stagnant water into your swimming pool takes patience. If you rush and let that dirty swamp spill over the edge, you turn a simple opening into days of extra brushing and chemical clearing. The exact method depends on whether you have a solid vinyl tarp held down by water bags or a mesh safety cover secured by deck springs.

1. Pump off all standing water: Place a submersible cover pump on the lowest sag of the cover. Let it drain until only damp debris remains. If you pull a cover that still holds puddles, the weight will drag the edges into the pool.
2. Clear the dry debris: Use a soft pool broom or a leaf rake to sweep off twigs, leaves, and pine needles. Work from the edges inward, then scoop the debris into a yard bag before unhooking anything.
3. Detach the anchors or weights: For solid tarps, drain the water tubes and slide them away from the deck. For safety covers, use an installation rod to slip the tension springs off their recessed deck anchors. Screw the brass deck anchors down flush with the concrete so nobody stubs a toe.
4. Fold the cover accordion-style: Stand on opposite ends of the pool with a helper. Grab the corners and fold the cover back and forth in three-foot folds, moving from the shallow end to the deep end. This keeps any leftover dirt trapped inside the folds rather than in your clear pool water.
5. Clean and store the material: Spread the cover out on the lawn or driveway. Scrub it with clean tap water and a soft brush, let it dry completely in the sun to prevent mold, sprinkle a small amount of talc or store it dry in a sturdy tote bag away from mice.

Which equipment plugs do you need to replace first?

Before you run fresh water into the system, you must seal every opening on your equipment pad and inside the pool basin. Winterizing plugs (rubber or plastic caps sealing pool pipe openings) keep water from freezing inside your lines during cold months. Now, those winterizing plugs must come out so water can travel, while equipment drain caps must go back in.

• Pool wall return plugs: Unscrew the rubber expansion plugs or plastic caps from the return jets inside the pool walls. Thread the directional eyeball fittings back into the ports, pointing them slightly downward and toward the wall to encourage circular water flow.
• Skimmer plugs and freeze guards: Reach deep into each skimmer basket opening and remove the foam rope, rubber plugs, or hollow plastic freeze bottles. Inspect the bottom threads to make sure nothing broke off in the pipe.
• Pump strainer drain plugs: Most pool pumps have two small drain plugs: one beneath the front strainer basket and one near the bottom of the motor housing. Replace these plugs, ensuring each rubber O-ring is soft and seated squarely in its groove.
• Filter tank drain cap: Screw the main bottom drain cap back onto the filter base. If your filter uses a threaded plug, wrap the threads with fresh thread-seal tape to stop pinhole drips.
• Heater and chlorinator plugs: Reinstall the small brass or plastic drain caps on your pool heater header, your inline tablet feeder, and any booster pump.
• Pressure gauge and sight glass: Screw the pressure gauge and air relief valve back into the top of the filter tank. Verify the needle rests at zero when the equipment is turned off.

If you notice cracked rubber seals while reinstalling these parts, apply a thin layer of pool-safe silicone lubricant. Never use petroleum jelly, which softens and ruins rubber gaskets over time. If your pump motor hums, trips the breaker, or refuses to spin after a long winter, you may need to check the motor shaft or know how to remove a pool pump motor without cutting pipes to replace worn internal parts before turning the power back on.

How do you fill and prime the pool pump?

Starting a pool pump dry will warp the mechanical shaft seal and melt the internal plastic basket in just a couple of minutes. Priming (filling the pump basket with water so it catches suction) gives the pump the liquid seal it needs to pull water from the pool and push it through the filter.

1. Raise the water level: Place a garden hose in the pool and fill the water until it reaches the exact midpoint of your skimmer door. If the water rests below the skimmer mouth, the pump will suck in air and lose its prime instantly.
2. Open the plumbing valves: Walk to the equipment pad and turn your suction valves so the skimmer and main drain lines are wide open. Set the return valves to open so water can freely enter the pool. If your filter has a multiport valve, turn the handle to "Filter."
3. Open the manual air relief valve: Turn the small valve on top of the filter tank counterclockwise. This lets trapped winter air escape as water enters the chamber.
4. Fill the pump strainer basket: Remove the clear pump lid. Use a bucket or a running garden hose to fill the basket housing completely to the brim with water.
5. Seal the pump lid securely: Wipe grit away from the lid O-ring, seat the lid on the pump body, and tighten the lock ring firmly by hand.
6. Power on the system: Turn on the electrical breaker at the main box, then flip the pump switch. Water will churn inside the clear lid. Watch the open air relief valve on your filter tank; it will hiss loudly with escaping air.
7. Close the valve when water sprays: As soon as a steady stream of water squirts out of the relief valve without spitting air bubbles, close the valve tight. Your pump is now fully primed and circulating.

Give the pump sixty to ninety seconds to catch full prime. If the water inside the clear pot drops away and the basket remains empty, shut the motor off immediately. Refill the basket with water, inspect the lid O-ring for air gaps, and repeat the sequence until continuous suction takes hold.

What order should you add opening chemicals in?

Dumping opening chemicals into your pool without a set order leads to cloudy water, wasted supplies, and potential surface stains. You must balance the base water chemistry before adding chlorine shock. Sanitizers work poorly when acidity or mineral balance is out of range.

1. Adjust total alkalinity: Measure your water chemistry using a reliable liquid dropper kit or measuring strips. Adjust your total alkalinity first to bring it between 80 and 120 parts per million. Use sodium bicarbonate to raise it, or muriatic acid to lower it. Alkalinity acts as a protective shield that keeps your pH from swinging wildly.
2. Balance the pH: Once alkalinity is stable, bring the pH into the safe zone between 7.2 and 7.6. If your pH sits too high, pool shock loses more than half of its sanitizing power. If it sits too low, the acidic water can corrode metal heat exchangers and irritate eyes.
3. Add cyanuric acid: Cyanuric acid (stabilizer that protects chlorine from burning off in sunlight) should sit between 30 and 50 parts per million. Without this stabilizer, direct spring sunshine can destroy your chlorine in just two hours. Dissolve granular stabilizer inside a clean sock hung over a return jet, or add liquid stabilizer directly to the skimmer.
4. Shock the pool: Add your startup shock after dusk so the sun does not degrade the chlorine before it attacks winter bacteria. Pre-dissolve calcium hypochlorite granules in a bucket of pool water, or broadcast sodium dichlor evenly across the deep end while the pump runs. If your pool has a concrete or gunite finish and shows winter mineral deposits, learn how to clean pool plaster without damaging the surface before applying heavy doses of granular shock directly on pool steps.
5. Add algaecide: Algaecide (liquid treatment that kills green algae blooms) should go in twelve to twenty-four hours after shocking. Adding algaecide and chlorine shock at the exact same moment can cause the two chemicals to cancel each other out. Pour the algaecide around the pool perimeter to kill off any lingering spores.
6. Add a clarifier if needed: Clarifier (treatment that clumps tiny dirt particles so the filter catches them) helps clear up residual milkiness once your free chlorine level drops below five parts per million. Only a tiny dose is required to pull floating cloudiness into the filter medium.

How long should you run the filter after opening?

Run your pool filtration system continuously for twenty-four to forty-eight hours immediately after opening. Do not turn the pump off at night during this initial clearing phase. Continuous water movement circulates your sanitizers, breaks up dead algae blooms, and forces suspended silt into the filter tank.

Monitor your filter pressure gauge closely during these first two days. As the filter captures fine dirt and dead organics, internal pressure rises. When the needle climbs eight to ten pounds per square inch above your baseline clean starting pressure, clean the filter media. For sand and diatomaceous earth systems, shut down the pump and perform a complete backwash. For cartridge filters, remove the pleated elements and spray them down thoroughly with a garden hose.

Brush the entire pool interior at least once every twelve hours while the system runs continuously. Brush down the pool walls, steps, ladders, and corners to push settled sediment toward the main drains. Outdoor pools also collect debris that invites pests early in the season; you can see how to safely kill bugs in your pool if water boatmen or backswimmers gather along the waterline before the water fully clears.

What cleaning equipment helps clear startup pool debris?

Once your pool circulation is running and large leaves have been skimmed out with a hand net, dedicated pool cleaners speed up the clearing process significantly. Using the right type of cleaner saves your filtration system from becoming overwhelmed by heavy winter silt and organic sludge.

For fine dust, dead algae, and lingering floor dirt, an automatic robotic cleaner provides the easiest solution. A robotic cleaner is a self-powered unit with its own internal debris basket that operates independently from your pool plumbing. Because it traps debris in its own onboard fine mesh filters, it removes dirt from the pool without loading extra pressure onto your main filter tank. Suction-side cleaners, which connect directly to your skimmer or dedicated vacuum line, are also useful for continuous floor sweeping, but they divert pump suction away from the surface skimmers.

When selecting a cleaner to assist with spring openings, check the surface compatibility of your basin. Smooth vinyl liners and fiberglass shells require soft foam rollers or specialized climbing rings to scale walls effectively. Rough plaster, concrete, and pebble aggregate finishes work better with durable rubber tracks and sturdy scrubbing brushes. Always plug any electric pool unit into an outdoor GFCI outlet located at least 10 feet back from the water edge. Never allow anyone to swim while an automatic cleaner or electric power cord is submerged in the pool, and always shut off the circulation pump before connecting or disconnecting manual vacuum hoses.

1

Pool Waterfall Fountains for Inground Pools Above Ground Pools, Swimming

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  10.0
• Brand
  ROTORS

Key specs2

Return jet fitting size

1.5 in threaded with 2.2 in male adapter

Water cooling function

Sprays return water into the air to promote vaporization heat loss while speeding up pool circulation.

Pros & cons43

Pros

• Fits standard 1.5 inch male and female threaded return jet fittings with an adapter included for 2.2 inch threads
• Functions as an aerator and chiller to help cool pool water and improve surface circulation
• Adjustable spray head and regulator valve allow directional water flow control
• Durable ABS construction resists deformation and cracking

Cons

• Total height is 14.5 inches, so it will not function if installed on return ports submerged deeper than that
• Installation requires shutting off the pump and removing three existing return fitting parts with a wrench
• Will not fit pools lacking 1.5 inch or compatible 2.2 inch return fittings

2

In The Swim Pool Super Opening Chemical Start Up Kit

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  9.2
• Brand
  In The Swim

Key specs2

Pool capacity rating

Up to 30,000 gallons

Kit contents

• 4 bags of 99% sodium dichlor shock
• 1 bottle water clarifier
• 1 bottle preventative algaecide
• 1 Sun Sorb oil and scum absorber

Pros & cons32

Pros

• Contains 4 pre-measured bags of 99 percent sodium dichlor shock to sanitize water quickly
• Includes dedicated algaecide to prevent blooms and clarifier to help the pool filter capture dirt
• Comes with a Sun Sorb absorber sponge to collect surface oils and scum

Cons

• Formulated for pools up to 30,000 gallons, requiring extra chemicals for larger capacities
• Does not include metal sequestering agents or test strips in the package

3

Doheny's Ultimate Pool Opening Start-Up Kit | Contains All of

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  9.2
• Brand
  Doheny's

Key specs2

Pool capacity range

10,000 to 30,000 gallons

Included chemicals

• Premium Super Shock Plus
• Doheny Metal Out stain and scale preventer
• Spring Control algaecide formula
• Water clarifier and 10 test strips

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Complete startup chemical package treated for pools between 10,000 and 30,000 gallons
• Includes Metal Out to prevent rust, scaling, and metal staining during spring startup
• Comes with 10 free test strips to verify initial chlorine and water balance
• Contains Premium Super Shock Plus, Spring Control, and clarifier in one box

Cons

• Designed only for chlorine-based pools and requires purchasing multiple kits for pools over 30,000 gallons
• Specific fluid ounce volumes for individual bottles are not stated in the package data

4

Robarb 71205 Super Blue Swimming Pool Clarifier

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  9.2
• Brand
  GLB

Key specs2

Application dosage

1 oz per 5,000 gallons

Filter compatibility

All filter types without clogging

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Highly concentrated dosage requiring only 1 ounce per 5,000 gallons of pool water
• Compatible with all filter types and formulated not to clog filtration media
• Functions across wide chemical ranges and varying water temperatures
• Binds suspended dirt particles to lower sanitizer demand during spring opening

Cons

• Only clarifies water and does not contain sanitizing chlorine or algaecide
• Requires an active pool filter system to pull coagulated debris out of circulation

5

In The Swim Swimming Pool Super Clarifier - 1 Quart

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  9.2
• Brand
  In The Swim

Key specs2

Total water treatment

1 quart treats up to 160,000 gallons

Dosing schedule

Initial spring dose requires 4 ounces per 10,000 gallons, followed by maintenance doses of 2 ounces weekly.

Pros & cons42

Pros

• One quart bottle treats up to 160,000 total gallons with concentrated liquid dosing
• Requires just 4 ounces per 10,000 gallons for initial spring opening clearing
• Works in both inground and above ground swimming pools
• Coagulates micro-particles so the filter system can trap them efficiently

Cons

• Requires ongoing weekly dosing of 2 ounces per 10,000 gallons to maintain clarity
• Does not sanitize bacteria or treat active green algae on its own

6

SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS ORIGINAL 70200 FrogLog Animal Saving Escape Ramp For

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  9.2
• Brand
  Swimline

Key specs2

Critter rescue setup

Inflate the primary landing pad, extend the mesh ramp into the pool, and weigh down the deck pouch with rocks or sand.

Fabric construction

Non-corrosive UV-resistant material

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Provides an escape ramp for frogs, mice, and other critters that fall into open pools
• UV-resistant fabric and heavy-duty build withstand outdoor spring and summer weather
• Simple setup using an inflatable platform and an anchor pouch placed on the deck
• Helps reduce organic water contamination caused by trapped animals

Cons

• Weighting materials like sand or gravel for the anchor pouch are not included
• Does not actively clean water or treat chemical imbalances

7

Grace Alley Flag Pole: 6 Foot Tangle Free Spinning Flag

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  9.0
• Brand
  Grace Alley

Key specs2

Pole construction

6 ft rust-free 1.2 mm brushed aluminum

Flag compatibility

2.5x4 ft or 3x5 ft grommet or sleeved

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Free-spinning mechanism prevents flags from wrapping or tangling in the wind
• Constructed from 1.2 mm brushed aluminum that resists rust and outdoor weather
• Two-piece interlocking design allows quick assembly to the full 6 foot length
• Backed by a 1-year manufacturer warranty

Cons

• Mounting bracket and flags must be purchased separately
• Unrelated to pool startup, equipment maintenance, or pool water treatment

8

scottchen PRO Pool Cover Tool Swimming Pool Rod 26-1/2inch Pool

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  8.6
• Brand
  scottchen PRO

Key specs3

Anchor rod diameter

7/8 inch diameter steel rod

Leverage and length

26-1/2 inches, two-piece detachable

Spring removal operation

Insert the notched rod end over the anchor pin, rotate half a turn, and tilt toward the pool to release spring tension.

Pros & cons42

Pros

• 26-1/2 inch length provides leverage to install or remove safety cover springs without back strain
• Notched cutout tip fits 7/8 inch anchor fittings from most major safety cover brands
• Detaches into two separate pieces for compact storage when not in use
• Anti-skid handle ensures a secure grip when levering high-tension cover springs

Cons

• Designed specifically for inground safety covers with deck anchors and will not work on standard tarps
• Only assists with spring mechanics and does not clean or scrub the pool cover

9

HTH 52038 Swimming Pool Care Green to Blue, Advanced Shock

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  8.2
• Brand
  HTH

Key specs2

Shock chemical type

Calcium hypochlorite with no cyanuric acid

Two-step process

Step one shocks heavy algae with Cal Hypo, while step two flocculates dead debris so it sinks for waste vacuuming.

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Two-step treatment combines Cal Hypo shock with a drop flocculant to clear green water in 24 hours
• Cal Hypo shock formula adds zero cyanuric acid, avoiding pool overstabilization and chlorine lock
• Drops suspended dead algae to the pool floor so it can be vacuumed directly to waste
• Safe for vinyl liners without causing bleaching or liner fading when used as directed

Cons

• Requires a pool filtration system capable of vacuuming directly to waste
• User must manually vacuum settled floor sediment after the flocculant drops particles

10

In The Swim Stain Away Pool Stain Remover - 1

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  8.2
• Brand
  In The Swim

Key specs2

Startup dosage

15 oz per 10,000 gallons

Mineral protection

Controls iron and mineral levels to stop water discoloration and scaling caused by high-metal pool water.

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Sequestration formula binds dissolved iron and minerals to prevent brown water and pool staining
• Highly effective for initial spring pool fillings that rely on metal-heavy well water
• Helps lighten existing mineral stains while preventing calcium scale buildup on pool surfaces
• Requires an initial dosage of only 15 ounces per 10,000 gallons of pool water

Cons

• Degrades under sunlight and chlorine, requiring weekly maintenance additions of 5 ounces per 10,000 gallons
• Does not act as a sanitizer, algaecide, or water clarifier

Last update on 2026-10-08 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

FAQs

How long after opening the pool can you swim?

Most families can swim within twenty-four to forty-eight hours after starting the system. You must wait until the water is crystal clear and you can easily see the bottom drain screw heads. Verify that your free chlorine level drops between one and four parts per million, and that your pH balances between 7.2 and 7.6 before anyone enters the water.

What if the pool water is dark green underneath?

Dark green water means live algae flourished beneath the winter cover. Keep your pump running continuously, brush the floor twice daily, and double your opening shock dose using calcium hypochlorite or liquid chlorine. You may need to backwash your filter or rinse your cartridges several times a day until the green algae turns cloudy gray, which confirms the bloom is dead and ready to be filtered out.

Should you drain the pool completely before opening it?

Never drain an inground pool completely unless a licensed pool builder is performing structural resurfacing. Emptying an inground pool removes the downward water weight that counteracts groundwater pressure. High hydrostatic pressure in the surrounding soil can pop a concrete shell right out of the ground or cause an inground vinyl liner to shift, shrink, and tear away from the pool walls.

Can you open an inground pool by yourself?

You can complete the mechanical and chemical startup steps alone, but removing the winter cover is much easier with a second person. A partner helps you fold a heavy tarp or pull a spring-loaded mesh safety cover without dropping mud and leaves into the clean water. If your plumbing shows cracked valves, bad electrical wiring, or underground leaks, contact a qualified pool technician for assistance.