Spring in Texas means it's time to get your pool ready for swimming season. Whether you maintained your pool through winter or let it hibernate, this checklist will help you open it properly and avoid costly mistakes.

When to Open Your Pool in DFW

In the Dallas-Fort Worth area, most pool owners start their spring opening between late February and early April. The key indicators:

Consistent daytime temperatures above 70°F
Water temperature reaching 60°F+
No more hard freeze forecasts (typically after mid-March)

Complete Pool Opening Checklist

Step 1: Inspect the Area

Remove debris from pool cover (if applicable)
Check deck and coping for winter damage
Inspect fencing and gates for safety compliance
Clear landscaping debris from equipment area
Check for any visible leaks around equipment

Step 2: Equipment Inspection

Check pump for any cracks or damage
Inspect pump lid O-ring (replace if cracked)
Verify filter pressure gauge works
Check all pipe connections and valves
Inspect heater (if applicable) for debris/damage
Test salt cell (for saltwater pools)
Check automation system settings

Step 3: Water Level & Cleaning

Fill pool to middle of skimmer
Skim surface debris
Brush walls and floor thoroughly
Vacuum pool (or run automatic cleaner)
Clean skimmer and pump baskets
Backwash or clean filter

Step 4: Chemical Balancing

This is where many DIY pool owners struggle. Proper sequence matters:

Test your water — Use a quality test kit or take a sample to a pool store
Balance alkalinity first — Target 80-120 ppm
Adjust pH — Target 7.2-7.6
Add stabilizer (CYA) — Target 30-50 ppm for chlorine pools
Shock the pool — Use 2-3x normal dose for opening
Maintain chlorine — Target 1-3 ppm

Step 5: Final Checks

Run pump for 24-48 hours after shocking
Retest water and adjust as needed
Set timer for normal summer hours
Install pool accessories (ladders, handrails)
Check safety equipment (life ring, shepherd hook)

Common Spring Opening Mistakes

Starting pump with low water level — Can burn out your pump motor
Adding chemicals all at once — Follow the proper sequence
Skipping the shock — Winter buildup needs heavy treatment
Not running pump long enough — 24-48 hours minimum after opening
Forgetting to check equipment first — Fix issues before adding chemicals

Skip the Hassle—Let Us Open Your Pool

Pool opening takes 2-3 hours and requires $50-100 in chemicals. For about the same cost, I'll handle everything professionally and catch issues before they become expensive problems.

Call (817) 915-3266

Pool Opening Checklist for DFW Homeowners (2026)