Build a Pool
Planning a pool party but just realized your water’s not ready? Don’t panic—you’ve got time. With a little hustle and the right steps, you can get your pool clean, safe, and sparkling in just a few days. Here’s how to do it fast.
Start with a Professional Pool Water Test
Before anything else, take a water sample to a local pool store like Carlton Pools. Their testing is more accurate than DIY kits, and they’ll tell you exactly which chemicals you need and how much. This step saves you time, money, and guesswork—especially when you’re in a rush.
Clear Out Debris
Once you know what chemicals you’ll need, it’s time to clean up the pool. Start by using a leaf skimmer to scoop out floating leaves, bugs, and any random debris. Empty the skimmer baskets and double-check for anything large that may have sunk to the bottom.
If you have an automatic cleaner, get it running right away to collect dirt from the floor. Take a few minutes to sweep or blow off the pool deck too—otherwise, that mess will blow right back in. And don’t forget to clean out the pump and skimmer baskets once more after running your cleaner.
3. Brush and Vacuum the Pool
Next, grab your pool brush and scrub the walls, floor, and steps—especially in corners and shady spots where algae can grow. After brushing, use a manual vacuum (or your automatic system again) to collect the loosened debris. Move slowly and cover every inch.
Once vacuuming is done, clean out your baskets again and check the filter pressure. If it’s high, give your filter a backwash or clean the cartridge.
4. Balance Your Water Chemistry
Now it’s time to treat the water. Using your test results from the store, start adjusting your levels. Your target numbers should be:
- pH: 7.2 to 7.6
- Chlorine: 1 to 3 ppm
- Alkalinity: 80 to 120 ppm
- Calcium hardness: 225 to 300 ppm
- Cyanuric acid (CYA): 40 to 60 ppm
Add chemicals slowly, and let your pump run to circulate everything. Wait a few hours, then retest if needed. Always wear gloves and goggles when handling pool chemicals, and store them in a dry, shaded spot.
5. Shock the Pool
If your party is a few days away, shocking your pool now is a smart move. This kills bacteria and algae fast and clears up cloudy water. Shock the pool in the evening when the sun won’t burn it off.
Turn on your pump first, then walk around the pool pouring the shock evenly. Let the pump run overnight (or for at least 6 hours), and retest chlorine levels the next day. Avoid swimming for at least 24 hours after shocking. If your pool still looks cloudy after a day, a clarifier can help.
6. Run the Filter and Add Clarifier (If Needed)
Keep your filter running continuously right up to the party. This helps trap small particles and gives your water that crystal-clear look. If needed, use a clarifier like BioGuard Super Clear Tabs or Polysheen Plus—they help clump together tiny debris so your filter can catch it.
Right before guests arrive, give the water one last skim to catch any floating debris and make sure your chemical levels are still in the safe range.
Enjoy the Party
That’s it—you’re ready to go. With a clean pool and balanced water, your guests can enjoy a safe, refreshing swim. After the party, do a quick cleanup and retest the water to make sure it’s ready for the next splash.
A clear, sparkling pool makes all the difference—and now you’ve got the steps to make it happen fast.
