“How To” Help!

Following is some great “How To” Help advice from the staff at the store. First we have the 'Above Ground' pool info and scroll further down for the 'In Ground' pool instructions.

ABOVE-GROUND POOL OPENING INSTRUCTIONS

• As ice on cover thaws, slowly pump off water, while at the same time replenish displaced water inside the pool. It is important to maintain a 3/4 full pool.
• Remove cable from cover, then slide cover off pool. Deflate pillow if used and remove. Scrub cover thoroughly on both sides; allow to dry and fold for storage.
• Re-connect pool to filter piping, (skimmer line to pump, inlet line to return side of filter). Check hoses for any winter damage.
• Replace drain plugs to pump strainer, drain plug at filter tank, pressure gauge, sight glass and and close air relief.
  NOTE: On cartridge filter, clean cartridge thoroughly and install after checking for any winter damage. >>> All plugs should be wrapped with teflon thread tape and all O-rings lubricated with a good quality lubricant before assembly. Replace pump strainer basket and prime pump, then close lid tightly.
• Remove 1-1/2” winter plug from inlet and replace with directional eyeball. Install wier (flapper door) in skimmer along with basket.
• Refill pool to normal operating level. While waiting to fill, clean bathtub ring on liner and top seats. Check filter and pump for any leakage.
• When pool is full, start circulation system, bleed air, check for leakage and allow to circulate for a few minutes.
  NOTE: On sand filters run on backwash for 30 sec., then rinse for 10 sec. and back to filter.
• Test pool water chemistry. pH should be balanced first. After balanced and circulated, add 1 lb. granular shock per 10,000 gal. through skimmer to superchlorinate pool. Then add one or more quarts algaecide as needed.
• Replace ladder, accessories and all safety equipment.
  
  When water is clear, backwash filter or clean cartridge, then vacuum entire pool.

Enjoy

Important note: Your pool and cover should have been checked frequently during the winter, keeping the cover cable from binding too tightly. You must continue to do so, especially as ice thaws. Failure to do so will cause structural damage to pool and surrounding areas.

IN GROUND POOL OPENING INSTRUCTIONS

• Siphon water off cover with a garden hose or cover pump. Refill pool under cover with pump or garden hose. This is necessary as the weight from water on cover has forced water out of the overflow fitting during the fall and from recent spring rains and thaws. Refill pool as soon as you start pumping and keep checking. When all water is off the cover, the pool level should be at operating level: two-thirds up on the skimmer faceplate.
• Remove all leaves from cover with leaf net; empty all water from water tubes. Remove cover, wash down and dry the best you can. (Do not let cover dry on lawn as it will burn grass.) Fold and store with water tubes. For those with a Loop-Loc cover, remove the springs from the anchors with your installation/removal tool. Take cover off pool; fold and store in the mesh bag. (Hanging the bag will help to dry more quickly). Remove all brass inserts in deck. Hose or vacuum out holes and lightly spray inserts with WD-40 or silicone spray. Reinsert anchors, turning down completely with the hex head tool.
• Remove all winterizing plugs from returns. Remove gizzmos from the skimmers. Replace return eyeballs, skimmer baskets, ladders and handrail. Make certain ladder bumpers are on tightly. Replace plugs in pump unit and reconnect chlorine feeder if applicable. Install pressure gauge, sight glass and filter drain plug. If the filter grid was removed in fall, reinstall in tank and follow manufacturer's instructions. Prime pump, tighten pump lid and start filter system.
• 4. Once system has started, you may need to backwash and rinse several times. Then return the multiport handle to 'filter', start the filter and add the required amount of diatomaceous earth to the skimmer. Record your pressure on the gauge - remember to backwash again if reading increases by 10#. If you have a sand filter, backwash for one minute, rinse for 30 seconds, then proceed to filter. Keep the filter running at least 10-12 continuous hours a day for maximum performance. For StaRite Element systems, reinstall your clean elements, tighten side clamps, tighten rear drain plug, leave air relief open until all air is expelled, then tighten air relief.

  
  Water Chemistry:

• Check your pH and alkalinity with a test kit, adjust, then check and adjust your chlorine. (Depending on the size of your pool, add 2 - 4 lb. of Shock through the skimmer). You may or may not have to add conditioner (Clor-Save) to prolong the life of the chlorine. If you are using too much chlorine to reach and hold your readings, bring a water sample in to our store to determine if you need additional conditioner (Clor-Save). Add one quart or more of algaecide on start-up. After start-up, it is recommended that you bring a water sample to Snyder Pools several times during the season to maintain the quality of your pool water.

IMPORTANT SAVETY NOTICE:

All filter tanks fitted with a band clamp must be checked and tightened prior to starting pump. High pressure built up in the tank could cause the tank to separate and blow apart. A loose clamp could cause permanent injury or death.