Make Your Backyard a Splash

Pools create a backyard oasis during the hot summer months, but choosing the right pool for your needs and maintaining it does require work. Knowing how to preserve your equipment and effectively treat the water will ensure that your family will enjoy sparkling clean water for many years to come.

Before Diving In

Before purchasing an above-ground pool, select the area where it will be located. Take accurate measurements and outline the preferred placement of the pool – doing so will help determine the size required and will also provide a rough idea of the end result. It is recommended that you check with your Municipality for local by-laws. Even inflatable pools require a pool permit.

Choosing a Pool

There are three types of prefabricated above-ground swimming pools:

• Framed - Framed pools feature a sturdy, rust-resistant metal frame that snaps neatly together, as well as a durable 3-ply heavy-gauge PVC liner. Pools with long-lasting framed construction offer increased water capacity and depth, and a large swimming surface. Framed pools can quickly be assembled and ready to fill with water, are easy to dismantle for off-season storage, and are available in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes.
• Inflatable - Inflatable pools are an inexpensive, convenient, above-ground alternative that offer a fast, easy set-up: simply inflate the top ring with air, add water to the pool, and watch the walls of the pool rise. Inflatable pools are constructed from a 3-ply, heavy-gauge PVC for durability and strength. They are also easy to take down for off-season storage, can easily fit in a closet, and are available in a variety of sizes.
• Framed Inflatable - Framed inflatable pools are a hybrid of two styles – this type of pool features the convenience of an inflatable top ring as well as durable frame support for strength.

Accessories

Covers are an essential piece to keeping your pool free from unwanted debris; they can significantly decrease the time spent on cleaning and maintaining the pool, as they act as a barrier to keep debris from falling in.

Specialty accessories included with the purchase of pool can range from: filter pump, ground cloth, cover, solar blanket, ladder, maintenance kit, chlorinator, thermometer, chemical floater, solar lamp, pool side table and miscellaneous games.

General Pool Safety

Ensure the safety of your family and guests - establish a set of safety practices around the pool and review them at the beginning of each season:

• No running, pushing or horseplay around the pool
• Keep all glass/breakables and food away from the pool area
• Never use electrical appliances around the pool area
• DO NOT swim during a thunder or lightening storm
• Reduce the amount of bacteria and contaminants that swimmers bring into the pool by having them shower or rinse before swimming
• Keep a lifesaving ring/pole, a complete first aid kit, and instructions (printed on waterproof material) for mouth-to-mouth resuscitation in the pool area
• Know emergency telephone numbers and encourage all family members to learn mouth-to-mouth resuscitation procedures
• Do not leave children unattended while in use; competent adult supervision should always be provided to prevent drowning or other injury

Opening Your Pool

1. Before you remove the pool cover, use a leaf net to remove any debris that accumulated during the winter
2. Remove the pool cover, clean thoroughly and let it dry before storage to prevent mildew and deterioration
3. Use a leaf skimmer to scoop up all the surface and submerged debris, and clean dirty pool walls with brush
4. Bring the pool water up to its normal operating level
5. Connect pool pump, filter, hoses and any electrical connections that may have been detached
6. Be sure the skimmer, filter, pumps, drains and other equipment are clean and free of winter debris
7. Turn on the filter pump; be sure to prime the pump before starting the motor
8. Check the skimmers, drains and filter to make sure they are functioning properly
9. Vacuum any remaining debris
10. Allow water to circulate 8-12 hours
11. Test the water thoroughly and balance the chemistry by adding the necessary chemicals in the proper sequence
12. Install ladders and diving boards; be sure to check for wear and damage

Cleaning Your Pool

During the swimming season, pools should be cleaned at least once a week using a leaf skimmer, brush and vacuum. A thorough cleaning will ensure that stain-causing debris is removed promptly, unwanted dirt build-up is prevented, and particles in the water are removed, leaving the water sparkling clean.

Testing & Treating the Water

Testing pool water is a simple process that checks the pH, chlorine, alkalinity, calcium and hardness levels, but knowing which chemicals to add to treat algae, scale, cloudy or discoloured water, chlorine odor and eye or skin irritation can be challenging. Try our step-by-step Pool Chemical Calculator, which will help determine the right solution such as sanitizer, shock treatment, or other chemicals, to maintain the proper water balance.

All chemical treatment should be given while the pump and filter are in operation, to ensure proper circulation. Be sure to read and follow dosages, directions and precautions listed on the product label before usage to ensure proper handling and storage.

Closing Your Pool

Both framed and inflatable above-ground pools are ideal for seasonal use; they are easy to assemble, and easy to dismantle for off-season storage. With proper storage, each heavy-gauge lined/constructed pool may be used again and again.