First time pool opening with a pool that's been closed a few years

[kjoconnor]

Hey all - we moved into this house last August and the previous owners hadn't opened the pool for at least a few years we were told. I'm looking to get it opened up again, but I'm not too sure about the state of the equipment or what I should be checking to make sure it's safe to start up. I had contacted a company to come help, but they forgot us when they started booking appointments and now we're at least 4-6 weeks away from them being able to get to us, so I'm seeing if I'm able to do it myself.

I think it has a fairly high quality cover so it's not quite a swamp underneath. We had someone inspect it when we first bought it, but they could really only take a peek at things and give us some guidance but they felt there wasn't a leak or anything. It's a gunite pool with a vinyl liner, and a cartridge filter. I have a test kit available as well.

Thanks in advance for any help or advice!

 

[Texas Splash]

Welcome to TFP! So some things that catch my eye:
- You would need to connect the outlet port (top) of the pump to the filter.
- Check to ensure the drain plug is in the pump strainer pot, filter, or any other locations that might have a plug.
- Your pump motor is an older single speed beast. If it even starts it may work for a while, but don't be surprised if you need to replace it with one of today's more efficient variable speed pumps. Before trying to connect it or apply power, you might remove the rear motor cover to get access to the motor shaft. See if it even turns by hand or with a wrench. It may be rusted stuck.
- When you know the system can operate, you'll need to be familiar with the following:
1. SLAM Process to kill & remove algae
2. Pool Care Basics to have access to all things TFP and pool care.

Pay special attention to the link about test kits. You MUST have either a TF-100 or Taylor K-2006C to properly test your water and perform the SLAM technique. In the meantime, you can manually brush all pool surfaces and start reviewing those links. Let us know if you have any questions. Lots of folks here to help.

 

[Texas Splash]

This link should come in handy as well.

Opening your pool- An easy to follow guide

Opening your pool can be stressful. This Pool Start Up guide teaches everything from start-up chemicals, covers, and more for your start up.

www.troublefreepool.com