How To Easily Open Your Perma Salt Pool

Welcome to our guide on how to easily open your Perma Salt pool. With summer fast approaching, it’s time to get your pool ready for the swimming season. Opening your pool can seem like a daunting task, but with our easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be ready to take a dip in no time!

Before you begin, it’s important to note that opening a Perma Salt pool is slightly different than a regular pool, but don’t worry, we’ll walk you through it. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from checking the chemical levels to adding the required amount of Perma Salt to the pool.

By following these steps, you’ll not only have a sparkling clean pool but also ensure that your pool equipment stays in good condition for years to come. So, let’s dive in and get started!

Don’t let the fear of opening your pool hold you back from enjoying the summer. Our guide will provide you with all the necessary steps to make the process as smooth as possible. So, keep reading to learn more!

Check the Pool’s Chemical Levels

Before you can enjoy a refreshing swim in your perma salt pool, it’s important to make sure that the chemical levels are balanced. Test the water using a pool water testing kit and check for chlorine, pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and cyanuric acid. Each of these chemicals has a specific range that is ideal for the water to be safe and comfortable to swim in.

If the chemical levels are too high or too low, it can cause problems such as skin irritation, algae growth, and even corrosion of the pool equipment. If any of the levels are outside of the recommended range, you will need to add the appropriate chemicals to adjust the levels. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles.

It’s recommended to test the water at least once a week, especially during peak swimming season. This will help you maintain the right balance of chemicals and ensure a healthy swimming environment for you and your family. If you’re unsure how to test the water, you can always take a sample to a pool store for analysis.

Another important factor to consider when checking the chemical levels is the pool’s total alkalinity. This refers to the ability of the water to resist changes in pH, which can affect the comfort and safety of swimming. To adjust the alkalinity, you can use sodium bicarbonate, which will help keep the pH stable and prevent corrosion of the pool equipment.

Overall, taking the time to check and balance the chemical levels in your perma salt pool is essential for a safe and enjoyable swimming experience. By following these simple steps, you can maintain the right chemical balance and keep your pool in top condition.

Test the pH and Alkalinity Levels

1. Collect a water sample from elbow deep in the pool, away from the return jet. Dip the testing strip into the water sample.

2. Wait for 15 seconds, then compare the color of the strip to the chart provided with the test kit. The pH level should be between 7.2 and 7.8.

3. Check the alkalinity level. It should be between 80 and 120 parts per million (ppm). If the level is low, add an alkalinity increaser. If the level is high, add pH decreaser.

4. Retest the chemical levels in a few hours after adjusting. Repeat until the levels are within the desired range.

If the pH and alkalinity levels are not balanced, it can lead to problems with water quality, staining, and damage to the pool equipment. Therefore, it is essential to check these levels regularly and adjust them as needed.

Adjust Chemicals as Needed

After testing the pH and alkalinity levels, you may need to adjust the chemical balance of your pool. If the pH level is too high, add a pH reducer according to the package instructions. If the pH level is too low, add a pH increaser. If the alkalinity level is too high, add an alkalinity reducer. If the alkalinity level is too low, add an alkalinity increaser. Always add chemicals in small amounts and retest the water after an hour.

Remember to never mix chemicals and always follow the instructions on the package. Wear gloves and goggles when handling chemicals, and keep them out of reach of children and pets. It’s important to maintain the proper chemical balance to prevent algae growth and keep the water safe for swimming.

If you have trouble balancing your pool’s chemicals or aren’t sure what chemicals to use, contact a professional pool service for help. They can test your water and provide recommendations on the right chemicals and amounts to use for your specific pool.

Remove the Pool Cover and Clean It

Step 1: Remove the Cover
Start by carefully removing the pool cover. Be sure to remove any debris or leaves that may have collected on top of the cover. You can use a leaf blower or a soft-bristled broom to help remove any debris on top of the cover before removing it.

Step 2: Clean the Cover
Once you have removed the cover, lay it out flat and use a soft-bristled brush or a pool cover cleaner to scrub away any dirt, debris, or algae. Be sure to rinse the cover thoroughly with a hose or pressure washer and allow it to dry completely before storing it away.

Step 3: Inspect the Cover
While you’re cleaning the cover, inspect it for any signs of wear and tear. Look for small holes or tears that could lead to larger problems down the road. If you notice any damage, consider repairing it or replacing the cover entirely before putting it away for the season.

Step 4: Store the Cover
Once the cover is clean and dry, fold it neatly and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help prolong the life of the cover and keep it in good condition for future use.

Step 5: Clean the Pool Deck
Before you reinstall the pool cover, take the time to clean the pool deck. Sweep away any leaves, dirt, or debris that may have accumulated over the winter. This will help prevent any dirt or debris from falling into the pool when you put the cover back on.

Remove Standing Water and Debris from the Cover

Step 1: Use a pool cover pump to remove any standing water on the cover. This will prevent the cover from sagging and potentially causing damage to the pool.

Step 2: Use a leaf blower or a broom to remove any debris, such as leaves, twigs, or dirt, from the cover. Be gentle and careful not to damage the cover.

Step 3: Once the debris is removed, use a mild cleaner and a soft brush to clean the cover. Rinse the cover thoroughly with a hose and let it dry completely before storing it.

Proper maintenance and cleaning of the pool cover will extend its lifespan and help keep the pool clean.

Scrub and Rinse the Cover

After removing debris and standing water, it’s time to scrub the cover. Use a soft-bristled brush and a pool cover cleaner to scrub the cover. Apply the cleaner to the cover and scrub in a circular motion to remove any stains or dirt that has accumulated on the cover. Be sure to focus on areas that have the most buildup.

Rinse the cover thoroughly with a hose, making sure to remove all of the cleaner and any remaining debris. Allow the cover to dry completely before storing it for the season. Once the cover is dry, fold it neatly and store it in a dry, cool place.

If you have a mesh cover, it’s recommended to use a cover pump to remove any remaining water from the cover before scrubbing it. This will make it easier to remove any debris and prevent the cover from tearing or stretching.

It’s important to take care of your pool cover to ensure it lasts for many seasons to come. By regularly cleaning and properly storing your cover, you can protect it from wear and tear and save money in the long run by not having to replace it as frequently.

Allow the Cover to Fully Dry Before Storage

Once you have cleaned the cover, allow it to fully dry before storing it away. This helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew during storage, which can damage the cover and make it unusable for the next season.

Choose a dry, shaded area to store the cover. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause the cover to fade or deteriorate.

If the cover is not completely dry before storage, it can also develop an unpleasant odor. If you notice a musty smell, hang the cover up and allow it to air out before storing it away.

Make sure the cover is completely folded and free of any wrinkles or creases before storage. This helps prevent damage to the cover and ensures it will fit properly the next time you need to use it.

Proper storage of your pool cover is essential to prolong its lifespan and keep it in good condition for years to come. Follow these steps to ensure your cover is clean, dry, and ready for storage until the next swimming season.

Inspect and Clean the Pool Pump and Filter

One important step in opening your perma salt pool is to inspect and clean the pool pump and filter. Over the winter months, debris can accumulate in these areas, which can affect the efficiency of your pool’s circulation and filtration systems.

Start by inspecting the pool pump and removing any debris that may have gathered inside. Check the pump’s impeller and motor for any damage or wear and tear. If you notice any issues, be sure to address them before turning the pump on.

Next, clean the pool filter to remove any debris that has accumulated over the winter months. This can be done by backwashing the filter or using a filter cleaning solution. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific filter type.

Finally, check all hoses and connections to ensure that they are secure and free of leaks. Any leaks can cause the pump to lose suction and affect the pool’s circulation, which can lead to other issues down the line.

Remove and Clean the Strainer Basket

One of the essential parts of the pool’s circulation system is the strainer basket. It catches debris and prevents it from entering the pump and filter. To clean it, turn off the pump, and close the valves to prevent water from flowing back into the pool.

Next, locate the strainer basket, remove the lid, and take out the basket. Inspect it for any cracks or damage, and if it’s in good condition, rinse it with a hose to remove any debris.

For stubborn dirt, use a soft brush to scrub the basket gently. Make sure to clean the gasket or o-ring that seals the basket lid, as dirt can cause leaks. Once the basket is clean, replace it, and secure the lid tightly. Finally, turn on the pump, and check for any leaks.

Backwash and Rinse the Filter

Over time, the pool filter can become clogged with dirt and debris, which can decrease the efficiency of the pump and filter system. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to regularly backwash and rinse the filter.

Step 1: Turn off the pool pump and switch the valve to “backwash”.

Step 2: Turn the pump back on and let it run until the water in the sight glass is clear.

Step 3: Turn off the pump again and switch the valve to “rinse”.

Step 4: Turn the pump back on and let it run for about 30 seconds.

Remember to also check and clean the filter baskets regularly to prevent clogging and ensure optimal filtration. Following these steps will help keep your pool water clean and clear, and extend the life of your pool equipment.

Refill the Pool to the Correct Water Level

After completing the necessary cleaning and maintenance tasks on your pool, it’s time to refill the pool to the correct water level. Make sure to follow these tips to ensure you fill the pool properly.

Use a hose to fill the pool. A hose is the best way to fill your pool as it ensures a steady and consistent flow of water. Make sure the hose is securely attached to the pool’s water inlet and that it’s long enough to reach the bottom of the pool.

Check the water level frequently. As you’re filling the pool, keep an eye on the water level. Don’t let the water overflow or fall below the recommended level. Use a pool water level gauge to ensure the correct water level is reached.

Allow time for the water to settle. Once the pool is filled, give the water time to settle before testing and adjusting the chemicals. This will ensure an accurate reading of the chemical levels and prevent unnecessary adjustments.

Consider the weather conditions. Depending on the weather, you may need to adjust the water level. In hot and dry conditions, the water may evaporate quickly, requiring you to add more water to maintain the proper level. In rainy conditions, the water level may rise, and you may need to remove excess water.

Don’t forget to turn off the hose. Once the pool is filled to the proper level, turn off the hose and disconnect it from the pool. Leaving the hose attached could lead to an overflow and wasted water.

Use a Garden Hose to Add Water to the Pool

Step 1: Check the water level – before adding water to your pool, make sure you know the proper water level for your pool size and type. If the water level is too low, proceed to step 2.

Step 2: Connect the garden hose – connect one end of the garden hose to a nearby faucet and the other end to the pool’s water intake valve or skimmer. Make sure the hose is securely attached to prevent leaks.

Step 3: Turn on the water – slowly turn on the faucet to begin filling the pool with water. Monitor the water level as it rises and adjust the flow rate as needed to prevent overflow.

Step 4: Check chemical levels – once the water level has reached the proper height, use a pool testing kit to check the chemical levels in the water. Adjust chemicals as needed to ensure a healthy swimming environment.

Step 5: Maintain water level – monitor the water level regularly and add more water as needed to maintain the proper level for your pool.

Turn on the Pool Pump and Circulate the Water

Check the Filter Pressure: Before turning on the pump, check the filter pressure to make sure it’s at the correct level. High pressure could indicate a dirty filter, while low pressure could mean a clog in the system.

Turn on the Pump: After checking the filter pressure, turn on the pool pump. Make sure the pump is running smoothly and there are no unusual sounds or vibrations.

Run the Pump for Several Hours: Let the pump run for several hours to circulate the water and ensure that it’s properly filtered. This will also help distribute any chemicals that were added to the pool.

Check the Chlorine Level: After circulating the water, check the chlorine level to make sure it’s at the appropriate level. If the level is too low, add more chlorine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Prime the Pump Before Turning it On

Before turning on the pool pump, it’s important to prime it. This means you need to fill the pump with water to help it start pumping more easily. To do this, turn off the power to the pump and remove the lid to the pump basket. Fill the basket with water until it overflows slightly, then replace the lid. This ensures that the pump has enough water to start working.

If you don’t prime the pump before turning it on, it could cause the pump to run dry, which can lead to damage or burn out the motor. So, make sure to take the time to prime the pump properly before starting it up.

Once the pump is primed, turn on the power to the pump and let it run for several minutes. This helps to circulate the water in the pool and ensures that the pump is working properly. You can also check the pressure gauge on the pump to make sure it’s reading within the normal range. If the pressure is too high or too low, you may need to adjust the pump settings or clean the filter.

It’s important to check the pump regularly to ensure that it’s working efficiently. A properly functioning pump helps keep the pool water clean and clear, and ensures that your pool equipment lasts longer.

Add the Required Amount of Perma Salt to the Pool

Perma Salt is an essential component in maintaining a clean and healthy pool. It helps to keep the water pH balanced and prevent algae growth. Adding the correct amount of Perma Salt is crucial for achieving optimal results.

Before adding the Perma Salt, it is important to determine the appropriate amount required for your specific pool size. The amount needed may vary depending on the size of your pool, so be sure to consult the manufacturer’s instructions.

Perma Salt is typically added directly to the pool water through the skimmer. It is recommended to add the Perma Salt in small quantities and allow it to dissolve completely before adding more. This will help to prevent the salt from clumping together and creating a buildup at the bottom of the pool.

After adding the required amount of Perma Salt, it is important to allow the pool water to circulate for several hours to ensure the salt is distributed evenly throughout the pool. This will also help to prevent any clumping or buildup of salt in the pool.

It is important to regularly test the water pH and Perma Salt levels to ensure the pool remains clean and healthy. Consult with a professional if you are unsure about the appropriate amount of Perma Salt to add or if you are experiencing any issues with your pool water.

Calculate the Amount of Perma Salt Needed

Before adding Perma Salt to your pool, it’s essential to calculate the correct amount needed. To do this, you’ll need to determine your pool’s gallonage and current salt level.

Gallonage: The easiest way to determine your pool’s gallonage is to check the manufacturer’s manual. If you don’t have access to the manual, you can use an online pool volume calculator by entering the shape and dimensions of your pool.

Current Salt Level: You’ll also need to test your pool’s current salt level using a salt test kit. The ideal level for Perma Salt is between 2,500 and 3,000 ppm (parts per million).

Calculating the Amount of Perma Salt Needed: Once you have determined your pool’s gallonage and current salt level, you can use a Perma Salt calculator to determine the amount needed. Enter the required information, and the calculator will give you the correct amount of Perma Salt to add to your pool.

Add the Perma Salt to the Pool While Pump is Running

First, make sure the pump is running and the water is circulating. Then, pour the required amount of Perma Salt into the pool. Perma Salt should be added slowly and evenly around the perimeter of the pool, allowing it to dissolve before adding more.

It’s important not to add too much Perma Salt at once, as this can cause scaling and other issues. It’s also important to retest the pool’s pH and alkalinity levels after adding the Perma Salt, as it can affect the overall balance of the water.

Once the Perma Salt has been added, run the pump for at least 24 hours to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the pool. Regularly check the chemical levels and adjust as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions