TURBRO Spring Pool Opening Guide: Tips for a Longer, Warmer Swim Season

Spring is officially in the air! Birds are chirping, flowers are blooming, and the temperatures are finally climbing. That means it's time to get your backyard pool ready for countless days of sun, splashes, and good times with family and friends.

But before you grab your swimsuit and dive in, it’s crucial to properly open your in-ground pool. Doing it the right way helps prevent costly repairs, keeps your water crystal clear, and ensures your pool stays safe and comfortable from early spring to late fall.

At TURBRO, we believe every pool owner deserves an effortless, enjoyable swim season. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive, step-by-step guide for opening your pool this spring to make your pool maintenance routine easier and more efficient.

Step 1: Remove & Clean Your Pool Cover

Your winter pool cover worked hard to protect your pool from debris, dirt, and harsh weather. Now it’s time to remove it carefully. Start by using a broom to clear away leaves, twigs, standing water, and any other buildup sitting on top. Avoid using sharp tools that might tear the cover.

Once clean, gently fold and rinse the cover with fresh water. Allow it to dry completely before storing it in a cool, dry place. Proper storage ensures you can reuse it next winter without mold, mildew, or damage. Consult your pool cover’s user manual for specific tips on maintaining and storing your pool cover. 

While handling the cover, inspect it for wear and tear. If you notice significant rips or deterioration, it’s a good idea to shop for a new one before the end of summer sales hit.

Step 2: Remove Winter Plugs & Reinstall Fittings

During the winterization process, you probably installed plugs in your skimmer and return lines to prevent freezing damage. Now, remove those winter plugs and reinstall your regular pool fittings, like return jets and skimmer baskets.

Check all drain plugs on the pump, filter, and heater, ensuring everything is tightly secured. Reattach ladders, handrails, pool lights, and other accessories that may have been removed for winter storage.

Step 3: Inspect and Reconnect Pool Equipment

Before turning anything on, visually inspect all your pool equipment, including the pump, filter, heater, and chlorinator. Look for signs of wear, cracks, or leaks. Reconnect all plumbing lines and electrical connections according to your manufacturer’s instructions.

Sidenote: Why You Need a Reliable Filter

One of the most critical components of a clean and healthy pool is your filtration system. That’s where the Airthereal AquaMind AM13 Sand Filter Pump comes in.

This powerful 13-inch sand filter pump offers excellent filtration capacity, removing debris, dirt, and fine particles, so you can enjoy clear water with minimal manual cleaning. The energy-efficient motor ensures long-term durability while cutting down on operational costs, making it a perfect addition to your pool opening routine.

Step 4: Fill Your Pool to the Correct Water Level

After months of cold weather and evaporation, your pool's water level will likely be lower than optimal. Use your garden hose to refill your pool until the water level reaches about halfway up the skimmer opening.

While refilling, take a few minutes to inspect the pool walls, floor, and tiles for cracks, discoloration, or winter damage. It’s easier to fix minor issues now before they become larger, more expensive problems later in the season.

Step 5: Prime & Start Your Filtration System

Once your pool is filled to the proper level, it’s time to get your filtration system running. Begin by clearing out any debris from the skimmer baskets and pump baskets to prevent clogs and ensure smooth water flow.

Next, check your filter, whether it’s sand, cartridge, or DE. Clean or replace the filter media if needed, as starting the season with a clean filter helps your system work more efficiently.

Before switching the system on, prime the pump by filling the pump housing with water to remove any air. Once primed, turn on the pump and let it run continuously for at least 24 hours to fully circulate and filter the water.

Step 6: Test & Balance Your Water Chemistry

One of the most important steps in opening your pool is balancing your water chemistry. Testing ensures a safe, comfortable swimming environment and protects your pool equipment from corrosion and scale buildup.

Use a high-quality pool test kit to measure:

• pH: 7.2 – 7.6
• Total Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm
• Calcium Hardness: 200 – 400 ppm
• Chlorine Levels: 1 – 3 ppm
• Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer): 30 – 50 ppm

If necessary, shock your pool with chlorine to eliminate bacteria, algae, and organic contaminants that may have developed over winter.

If you don’t like using chlorine, the Airthereal S6 Solar Pool Ionizer is a safer, more sustainable solution for those who prefer gentle, chemical-free pool maintenance. 

Instead of relying on harsh chemicals, this eco-friendly device uses solar-powered copper ionization to naturally reduce algae and bacteria in your pool. Simply place it in your pool and let the sun do the work, keeping your water crystal clear while using up to 80% less chlorine. 

Step 7: Restart Your TURBRO Pool Heat Pump

To enjoy warm swims early in the season, properly restarting your TURBRO Swimming Pool Heat Pump is crucial:​

1. Clean and Prepare the Pool: Ensure the pool is free from debris and the filtration system is clean to facilitate efficient heating.​
   
   
2. Check Ambient Temperature: Confirm that the outdoor temperature aligns with your heat pump's operational range, as using it in colder conditions can reduce efficiency.​ Check your user manual for reference.
   
   
3. Inspect and Position the Heat Pump: Place the heat pump on a stable, level surface, ensuring it's free from obstructions that could impede airflow.​
   
   
4. Reconnect Power and Plumbing: After verifying that all electrical connections are secure and water lines are properly attached, restore power to the unit.​
   
   
5. Gradually Open Valves: Slowly open bypass valves to allow water to flow into the heat pump, preventing pressure surges.​
   
   
6. Program Desired Settings: Set your preferred water temperature on the heat pump's control panel. The unit may require continuous operation over several days to reach the desired temperature, depending on initial water temperature and environmental conditions.​
   
   
7. Monitor System Performance: Regularly check the system's pressure and flow rates, adjusting as necessary to maintain optimal performance.​
   
   

Why Choose TURBRO Heat Pumps?

We offer two premium models tailored for in-ground pools:

Beluga Inverter Swimming Pool Heat Pump

The Beluga uses advanced inverter technology to efficiently and quietly heat your pool. It automatically adjusts its output based on your pool’s conditions, cutting down on energy use while keeping your water at a comfortable, stable temperature. Whether you’re hosting a spring pool party or enjoying a quiet swim, the Beluga keeps your pool inviting all season long.

Manatee M20 Swimming Pool Heat Pump

Perfect for pool owners who value durability and power, the Manatee M20 delivers rapid heating performance, even in cooler spring evenings. Its weather-resistant build and low-noise operation make it a reliable companion for extending your swim season well into fall.

By combining one of our TURBRO heat pumps with the AquaMind filtration system, you’ll have clean, perfectly heated water from early spring straight through the cooler months.

Step 8: Final Safety Checks & Fun Additions

Before you or your guests jump in, take a few minutes to walk around your pool area:

• Check safety equipment (life rings, pool covers, fencing, alarms).
• Inspect and tighten ladders, railings, and diving boards.
• Make sure lighting fixtures are working properly for evening swims.
• Add pool toys, loungers, and umbrellas to create your personal backyard oasis.

Final Thoughts

Opening your in-ground pool for spring doesn’t have to feel like a chore. By following these steps and investing in top-notch equipment like the TURBRO Swimming Pool Heat Pump and Airthereal AquaMind AM13 Sand Filter Pump, you’re setting yourself up for months of low-maintenance, high-enjoyment pool time.

Don’t let chilly spring mornings or murky water delay your first swim of the season. TURBRO is here to help you maximize your swim season and keep every dip in the pool as relaxing as possible.

Ready to make a splash this spring? Browse our collection of heat pumps and pool accessories today and experience the TURBRO difference.