Do I Need a Pool Opening or Closing Kit?
When it comes to opening or closing your pool, you may be wondering whether or not you can save time and money by purchasing a pool kit. These kits include a selection of “essential” items that you will need. So, is it worth it?
For most pool owners, pool opening or winterizing kits are a convenient way to buy necessary chemicals all at once. However, some pool owners may find that they need additional chemicals to treat their unique pool chemistry, which can be disappointing if they assumed the kit would have everything they need.
Let's talk about each season in your pool's life and how to best approach it.
Do I Need a Pool Opening Kit?
When it comes time to open your pool, adding the right chemicals will ensure that your pool's water is safe and clear — and that adds to an enjoyable swimming season. To properly open a pool, you will need these essential items:
- A test kit that allows you to check the water's pH, alkalinity, chlorine, and calcium hardness levels (and the chemicals to adjust them as necessary)
- Chlorine (tablets or granules)
- Shock treatment
- Algaecide
- Stain treatment
You can either purchase these items individually, or you can choose to buy a pool opening kit (also called a start-up pool chemical kit) that contains everything you need. The choice is yours. Some people prefer to purchase pool opening kits because it saves time, while others find that they save money by purchasing each item individually.
It's suggested that you speak with your local pool store expert to make sure the kit will have everything you need for your unique pool chemistry. They may have a good idea of the problems you've encountered in the past and recommend additional supplements.
Do I Need a Pool Closing Kit?
Also called a pool winterizing kit, a pool closing kit includes the chemicals that are known to work well in colder months and slowly release over the winter, helping you properly winterize your pool. The things you need to close your pool are:
- A test kit that allows you to check your pool's pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels (and the chemicals to adjust them as necessary)
- Phosphate remover or pool enzymes to prevent green algae growth
- A stain and scale preventer
- Algaecide
- A non-chlorine floating sanitizer cartridge to maintain lower winter sanitation levels
- Floating sponges or balls to absorb any grease or oils and prevent a pool ring
As is true with pool opening kits, some people prefer to purchase pool closing kits with all of the chemicals in one place, while others prefer to select the brands and prices of each item.
It's suggested that you speak with your local pool store expert to make sure the kit will have everything you need for your unique pool chemistry. They may have a good idea of the problems you've encountered in the past and recommend additional supplements.
What's the Best Option for You?
Whether you want the ease of buying all the pool chemicals in one place or you prefer to individually purchase the brands you've come to trust, opening or closing your pool should be done in the way that is most comfortable for you. Pool opening and closing kits are yet another thing that manufacturers have designed to make pool maintenance easier for pool owners. This works great for a lot of pool owners, but some owners may find their unique pool environment requires additional supplements.
Ready to find a pool opening or closing kit near you? Locate a pool store now or find a pool professional in your area.
