Summer Pool Prep Checklist
Summer in Florida means long days, sunshine, and lots of time in the pool. But before diving in, it’s important to make sure your pool is clean, safe, and ready for the season. Whether you maintain your pool yourself or work with a professional, this simple checklist will help you get the most out of your pool all summer long.
1. Remove Debris and Clean the Surface
Start by clearing out any leaves, dirt, or debris that may have collected in your pool during the off-season. Skim the surface, empty skimmer baskets, and vacuum the bottom. Pay attention to corners and steps where debris tends to collect.
2. Inspect the Pool Structure
Check your pool for any cracks, staining, or surface damage. Small problems can turn into bigger issues over time. Look closely at the tile line, pool plaster, and surrounding deck for signs of wear.
3. Test and Balance the Water Chemistry
Water chemistry is one of the most important parts of pool maintenance. Use a reliable test kit to check chlorine levels, pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and stabilizer. If any levels are off, adjust accordingly. Balanced water helps prevent algae growth, staining, and damage to equipment.
4. Clean or Replace the Pool Filter
A clean filter ensures proper circulation and helps keep your water clear. Depending on the type of filter you have—cartridge, sand, or DE—you may need to clean, backwash, or replace it. If your water looks cloudy or the pressure gauge is high, your filter likely needs attention.
5. Inspect the Pool Equipment
Check your pool pump, heater, chlorinator, and any automation systems to make sure everything is running correctly. Listen for any strange noises, and make sure there are no leaks. Catching equipment issues early can save money and prevent downtime during peak pool season.
6. Check Pool Lighting and Safety Features
Inspect pool lights for proper function, and check that all GFCI outlets are working as they should. If you have fencing, gates, alarms, or covers, verify they’re in good shape and up to local safety standards.
7. Shock the Pool
Once everything is cleaned and balanced, give the pool a shock treatment to kill any remaining bacteria or algae. This helps give your pool a fresh start for the summer and improves overall water clarity.
8. Set a Regular Maintenance Schedule
Keeping up with regular maintenance will help your pool stay clean and safe all summer. Plan to test your water weekly, clean filters as needed, and brush the walls and tile line to prevent buildup. If it gets overwhelming or time-consuming, a professional cleaning service can keep your pool in great shape without the stress.
Final Thoughts
Getting your pool ready for summer doesn’t have to be complicated. A thorough cleaning, water balance, and equipment check go a long way in keeping your pool clear and safe all season.
If you’d rather leave the work to the pros, or you just want a second set of eyes on your pool system before summer kicks into full gear, give Orchid Pools a call or text. We’ll make sure everything is running smoothly so you can enjoy a worry-free summer.
About Orchid Pools
At Orchid Pools, we provide reliable and professional pool service throughout Palm Beach County, Martin County, Saint Lucie County, and Indian River County. Our team proudly serves homeowners in Port Saint Lucie, Jensen Beach, Stuart, Palm City, Port Salerno, Hobe Sound, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach, Sebastian, Tequesta, Jupiter, Jupiter Island, North Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and Juno.
We also serve many neighborhoods across the Treasure Coast and South Florida, including White City, Indian River Estates, Lakewood Park, Sewall’s Point, Saint Lucie West, Tradition, Southbend Lakes, Riverland, Sandhill Crossing, Verano, Hutchinson Island South, and Ocean Breeze.
Orchid Pools offers a complete range of residential pool services, including:
Regular pool cleaning and chemical balancing
Filter cleaning and backwashing
Algae and shock treatments
Pool pump repair and replacement
Pool filter system and heater repairs
Pool leak detection and repair
Skimmer and return line repairs
Pool lighting repair
Pool resurfacing, pool replastering, and pool regrouting
Pool saltwater conversions and pool salt cell cleaning
Pool green-to-clean services
Professional pool inspections
For dependable, expert pool care, call Orchid Pools today.