The Ultimate Pool Opening Checklist for Summer 2025
Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Clean, Safe, and Smart Pool Start-Up
As the weather warms up and long weekends approach, pool owners across Canada are starting to prep their backyards for the season. But opening your pool isn’t just about pulling off the cover and diving in — it’s about setting up your system for a stress-free, sparkling summer.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time pool owner, this comprehensive checklist will walk you through every step — while showing you how Illuminex’s smart pool equipment can make your life easier.
1. Remove the Pool Cover & Clean the Area
Start by using a broom or leaf blower to clear off any debris or water that’s accumulated on your pool cover. Carefully remove the cover and let it dry completely before folding it for storage.
💡 Pro Tip: Hose down your patio, deck, and surrounding hardscape to prevent debris from blowing into the pool once it’s open.
2. Check the Water Level & Refill If Needed
Your pool’s water level should be about halfway up the skimmer opening. If it’s low from evaporation or winterization, use your garden hose to top it off.
💧 While refilling, check for any leaks, loose tiles, or signs of wear around the edges of your pool.
3. Reinstall Accessories & Clean the Skimmer Basket
Reattach ladders, railings, diving boards, and pool furniture.
🌀 Take a moment to reinstall your AquaSkim — Illuminex’s smart surface skimmer. Powered by the sun and connected via WiFi, it automatically removes surface debris before it sinks, reducing the burden on your filter and keeping your water pristine.
4. Prime & Inspect Your Pump
This is where performance matters. A good pump is the foundation of a clean, healthy pool.
🔧 Reinstall the drain plugs on your AquaPump (whether you’re using the single-speed or variable-speed WiFi model). Clean out the pump basket and make sure all unions and gaskets are sealed tight.
✅ Turn it on and look for proper water flow. No strange noises. No leaks.
📱 If you have the AquaPump VSF, fire up the Illuminex App to control speed and set schedules from your phone.
5. Clean or Backwash Your Filter
Your filter has been asleep all winter — now’s the time to wake it up and give it a deep clean.
- For cartridge filters: Remove and rinse thoroughly.
- For sand filters: Use the backwash function for 2–3 minutes.
- For DE filters: Clean the grids and recharge with fresh DE powder.
🛠️ Illuminex’s filters are engineered for high-flow performance and long-lasting durability. Look for the pressure gauge — if it spikes after startup, it’s time for maintenance.
6. Test & Balance Water Chemistry
Start the season with perfect water.
📋 Recommended Levels:
- Free Chlorine: 1–3 ppm
- pH: 7.2–7.6
- Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
- Calcium Hardness: 200–400 ppm
- Cyanuric Acid: 30–50 ppm
📲 Using the AquaChlor Salt Chlorinator? It’ll automate your chlorine generation from simple salt, saving you trips to the store — and keeping your water silky smooth, not harsh or irritating.
7. Deep Clean the Pool — Or Let Your Robot Do It
Manual vacuuming is effective, but it’s also… exhausting.
🤖 Enter the AquaDive — a robotic cleaner that maps your pool, climbs walls, and scrubs every surface. Schedule cleanings from your phone and watch it work while you sip a cold drink.
No hoses. No cords. No wasted time.
8. Light It Up
Reconnect and test your lighting system. Check transformers and timers to make sure everything is working.
💡 Want full control? Install the Lumi Light Controller. Change colors, set timers, or schedule ambient lighting straight from your phone using the Illuminex App.
🔌 Need more automation? Pair it with our WiFi Relay Panel to control water features, pumps, or lights with ease.
9. Monitor System for 24 – 48 Hours
Let your system circulate and stabilize before jumping in.
This is the time to:
- Monitor chemical levels and adjust as needed
- Check pump and filter pressure
- Inspect for air bubbles, leaks, or flow inconsistencies
📲 Track it all with Illuminex smart-connected gear — less guesswork, more clarity.
10. Relax. Your Pool is Summer-Ready.
From Memorial Day to Labour Day, you’re set for a season of fun, family, and flawless water.
Whether you’re hosting parties or soaking solo, your pool is now optimized with the latest technology — and best of all, it’s easy to manage.
🛒 Ready to Upgrade?
Explore our full lineup of pool tech at illuminexpool.com
Shop now and transform your pool into a smart oasis.