As summer approaches, it’s time to get your public swimming pool ready for the influx of visitors who will be looking to cool off and enjoy the sunshine. Whether you manage a community pool, a holiday park pool, or another recreational facility, ensuring that your pool is in top condition is essential for safety, comfort, and a pleasant swimming experience.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to prepare your public swimming pool for the busy summer season.
Inspect the Pool Equipment
Before the pool water is even considered, you should start with a thorough inspection of all pool equipment. Check the following:
Pump and filtration system
Make sure your pump is functioning correctly with no unusual noises and that the filtration systems media is clean and clear. This can be achieved by both a visual inspection as well as a thorough and extensive backwash and rinse cycle being conducted. This ensures that the pool water remains clean and clear throughout the summer season.
Treatment System
If your pool is treated with liquid chlorine via a dosing pump, inspect the hoses and ensure they are still flexible and have not become brittle overtime and therefore prone to cracks and leaks. Ensure the fittings are firmly tightened to ensure no leaks or suction of air. Lastly make sure all the lines are primed with fluid from the holding tank to the injection point in the pipework.
Chemical Controller
Conduct a water test using sample water from the controller and compare this to the current readings displayed on the controller screen. If they vary by more than 0.4 from your manual water test results, conduct a calibration on the controller to increase the accuracy of the future readings and ensure the correct free chlorine and pH levels are maintained.
If the controller readings are still significantly different to the manual water test after the calibration was conducted, it might be time to either arrange a service on the controller by an authorised technician or replace the old probes with new ones.
If you have a chlorination system in place, inspect the cell(s) to identify any calcification that may require cleaning. Note: only clean cells in specific cell cleaner products. Do not use diluted hydrochloric acid as this will affect the integrity of the cells plates and shorten its lifespan.
It is also imperative to check the cell(s) while in operation is producing chlorine gas within the cell(s) housing and therefore in working condition.
Secondary Sanitation System (AOP)
Inspect the systems main controller and identify the number of hours the current lamp has been operating for. If the hours are close to or exceed 12000, its time to replace the lamp. If the existing lamp is within the 12000 hours, it might be worth identifying when the las service was conducted. If it was more than 6 months ago, arrange a service to clean the quartz inside the chamber for optimal performance. Also inspect the system and identify if there are any error messages or red lights being displayed. If so, contact the manufacturer for assistance to rectify the issue.
Lights and Electrical Systems
Inspect all lights and electrical systems, ensuring that they meet safety standards and are in good working condition, especially if the pool operates in the evening.
Clean and Check Pool Surfaces
The cleanliness of your pool surfaces is just as important as the water. Scrub down pool walls, floors, and steps to remove any dirt, algae, or debris that may have accumulated over the off-season. Check for cracks or damage to the pool’s surface that may need repairs. This includes:
- Tiles
- Ensure that tiles around the pool are intact, and grout lines are clean.
- Decking
- Inspect the pool deck for any signs of wear and tear, cracking, or loose pavers. Repair any damage to ensure a safe walking surface around the pool.
- Pool Liner
- If your pool has a liner, check it for any holes or tears. Patch them up before filling the pool with water.
Refill and Balance Pool Water
Once your pool is clean and prepped, it’s time to top it up with fresh water. If you’re opening an outdoor pool for the summer, the water level should be high enough to ensure proper circulation and skimming.
After filling the pool, check the water balance, which is essential for both swimmer health and pool equipment longevity. You should test the following parameters:
- pH level: Ideal pH should be maintained at 7.4 in the pools body of water
- Ensure chlorine levels are within your state or territory requirements, which can range from 1 and 4 parts per million (ppm) to keep bacteria at bay.
- Alkalinity should be maintained at 100 ppm.
- Calcium Hardness should be maintained at 200 ppm to prevent scaling or corrosion.
- Adjust the chemicals accordingly to maintain safe, balanced water.
Check Pool Safety Equipment
Safety is paramount in a public swimming pool. Ensure all safety equipment is easily accessible, functional, and up to code. Check the following:
- Rescue equipment
- Ensure life rings, throw ropes, and reaching poles are present, in good condition, and easily accessible.
First Aid Kit
Stock a fully equipped first aid kit, complete with bandages, antiseptics, and emergency medications. Review the contents to ensure everything is in date and ready for use.
Signage
Ensure all pool rules, including safety guidelines emergency contact information, and CPR instructions are clearly displayed and visible to pool-goers.
Hire and Train Lifeguards
Having properly trained lifeguards on duty is critical to ensuring a safe swimming environment. Hire enough certified lifeguards for peak hours and train them to handle pool emergencies, enforce safety rules, and respond to any incidents. Be sure they are knowledgeable about:
- CPR and First Aid
- Emergency evacuation procedures
- Pool rules and regulations
Promote the Opening of Your Pool
Once your pool is ready for the summer, it’s time to let the community know. Create a marketing plan to announce the opening of your pool. This could include:
- Social media updates: Share exciting news, images, and videos to build anticipation for the summer season.
- Local flyers or posters: Distribute information about the pool schedule, special events, and swimming lessons.
- Special Events: Consider hosting a “grand opening” event or free swim day to attract more visitors at the start of the season.
Regular Pool Maintenance and Inspections
Throughout the summer, regular pool maintenance is essential to keeping everything in working order. Set up a cleaning schedule, including checking water chemistry daily, cleaning filters, skimming debris, and inspecting equipment weekly. A routine inspection will help you identify issues early before they become major problems.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your public swimming pool for the summer requires time, effort, and attention to detail, but it’s well worth it when you see happy swimmers enjoying the space. From ensuring safety to maintaining water quality, every step you take helps create a fun and secure environment for all. By starting the season with a clean, safe, and well-maintained pool, you’re setting the stage for a summer full of swimming, relaxation, and enjoyment for everyone.