After months of freezing temperatures and harsh winter storms, it’s finally time to think about warmer days your pool. While you could attempt to DIY it, hiring a professional for your pool opening in Northern Virginia can save you time and headache. It can also help you avoid unexpected (and unpleasant) surprises.

From handling equipment checks to ensuring proper chemical balance, a professional pool service takes care of everything, so you don’t have to.

The Many Steps of a Proper Pool Opening

Opening a pool isn’t as simple as pulling off the cover and jumping in. Over the winter, pools accumulate debris, and their equipment may suffer damage from freezing temperatures.

A professional will handle tasks like:

• Removing and cleaning the pool cover – Ensuring it’s properly stored for next season.
• Inspecting pool components – Checking pumps, filters, heaters, and skimmers for damage.
• Cleaning and filling the pool – Removing debris, scrubbing surfaces, and refilling water levels.
• Balancing chemicals – Ensuring the water is safe and preventing algae growth.
• Checking for winter damage – Identifying leaks, cracks, or worn-out equipment.

The Washington, D.C. area experienced a particularly cold and harsh winter in 2024-2025. Many DC area pools have likely sustained damage. A professional can address these issues early, making sure your pool is ready when the weather warms up.

Unexpected Issues That Can Arise

Opening your pool for the season can bring some surprises, especially after a long winter.

You might uncover minor problems like cloudy water, algae buildup, or debris that slipped under the cover. In some cases, there can be more serious issues, such as torn covers, structural damage, or broken equipment.

Wildlife activity over the winter can also create problems. As Great Falls Pools owner Joey Zabel explains, “It’s not surprising to find dead animals in pools after a long winter. There’s the stuff you might expect—rodents and frogs—but sometimes pool covers rip, and freak accidents happen. Last year, we had to remove a dead deer that had been stewing in a pool all winter.” Oh, deer.

No homeowner wants to deal with that kind of mess. More importantly, handling contaminated water requires care. A professional will ensure your pool is thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and ready for swimming, no matter what surprises are left behind from the winter.

The Risks of DIY Pool Opening

Many homeowners assume they can handle pool opening on their own. While it’s possible, DIY pool opening comes with risks.

• Improper chemical balance – Adding too much or too little of the right chemicals can lead to cloudy water, algae growth, or even skin and eye irritation for swimmers.
• Equipment mishandling – Pool pumps, filters, and heaters need to be restarted properly. A mistake could lead to expensive repairs.
• Missed damage – Small cracks or leaks may not be obvious but can cause major problems if left unaddressed.
• Time and effort – A proper pool opening takes several hours, especially if issues arise. Professionals have the expertise to make things happen more efficiently.

A professional service lets you know every step is done correctly, saving you time and money in the long run.

Protecting Your Equipment and Extending Its Lifespan

Your pool is a bit investment, and proper maintenance is key to keeping it in top shape.

A professional pool opening service doesn’t just get your pool ready for swimming. It ensures all systems are running efficiently and safely. This includes:

• Preventing costly repairs – Catching small issues before they become expensive problems.
• Extending equipment life – Proper start-up procedures protect pumps, filters, and heaters.
• Optimizing water circulation – Ensuring proper flow for efficient filtration and chemical distribution.

Skipping or improperly performing these steps can lead to early equipment failure and higher maintenance costs down the line.

Why Now is the Time to Schedule Your Pool Opening in Northern Virginia

Given the severity of this past winter, pool owners in Northern Virginia should expect some level of damage to their pools or equipment.

Booking a professional pool opening in Northern Virginia early ensures that any necessary repairs can be addressed before peak swimming season begins.

Spring is a busy time for pool service providers, and waiting too long to schedule an appointment can result in delays. If you want to ensure your pool is ready for the first warm days of summer, now is the time to book your service.

Instead of spending hours struggling with equipment, chemicals, and possible unpleasant surprises, let the experts handle it. Great Falls Pools has years of experience opening pools safely and efficiently. That way, you can enjoy a hassle-free start to your summer.

For more information on professional pool opening services, visit Great Falls Pools’ Pool Opening and Closing Services and get your pool ready for the season the right way!