I’ve found that a good pool opening or closing really comes down to planning and consistency. When opening, I always start by checking all equipment, pump, filter, and skimmers, then remove debris and give the walls and floor a light scrub. Balancing the water chemistry right away makes a huge difference for keeping it clear and preventing algae.
For closing, I make sure to clean thoroughly, add the right winter chemicals, lower the water slightly if needed, and use a quality cover. I also like to run the pump for a few extra hours after adding chemicals so everything circulates well. Taking it step by step avoids surprises when it’s time to open again.