Is Your Pool Ready For Memorial Day?

As Memorial Day approaches, millions of American families prepare to transition from springtime chores to summertime leisure. For pool owners, this holiday marks the beginning of swim season—a celebration of sunshine, laughter, and aquatic reprieve. Yet, as any seasoned pool owner knows, that first splash is only as refreshing as the water is clean, the chemicals are balanced, and the environment is safe.

At Gary Pools, we’ve been perfecting pool care since 1954, and as a longtime advisor on residential water systems, we offer the following Memorial Day Pool Readiness Checklist—a guide to ensuring your pool is healthy, hospitable, and holiday-ready.

1. Visual Inspection: Start with the Basics

Before diving into the technicalities, begin with a walk-around assessment. Ask yourself:

• Are there visible signs of wear, leaks, or damage to the pool structure?

• Is the water cloudy, green, or odorous?

• Is pool furniture, fencing, and equipment in good repair?

Tip: Early detection of cracks, stains, or uneven pavers can prevent more costly repairs mid-season.

2. Skimming & Scrubbing: Surface to Bottom

Even covered pools accumulate organic debris. Begin with a deep clean:

• Skim daily: Remove leaves, insects, and pollen.

• Brush walls and steps: Algae cling to surfaces and should be scrubbed weekly.

• Vacuum thoroughly: Manual or robotic vacuums help clear the pool floor and hard-to-reach areas.

Tip: Pay special attention to corners and behind ladders where algae colonies thrive.

3. Filtration & Circulation: The Heart of Pool Health

Filtration is essential to water clarity and sanitation.

• Inspect your pump and filter: Clean or backwash as needed.

• Check water flow: Strong circulation prevents stagnation and algae growth.

• Run the system: At least 8–12 hours a day during high-use periods.

Tip: If your system includes a variable-speed pump, optimize it for efficiency without compromising turnover rate.

4. Chemical Balancing: Precision Prevents Problems

Proper chemical levels ensure swimmer safety and extend your pool’s lifespan.

• Test your water: Use a high-quality test kit or bring a sample to Gary Pools for professional analysis.

• Balance the Big Five:

• pH: 7.4–7.6

• Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm

• Calcium Hardness: 100–400 ppm

• Chlorine (or alternative sanitizer): 1–4 ppm

• Cyanuric Acid: 30–50 ppm

Tip: Shock your pool before Memorial Day weekend to oxidize contaminants and restore water sparkle.

5. Safety First: Gear, Gates & Ground Rules

Pools are a source of joy—and responsibility.

• Inspect fences and gates: Ensure they are self-latching and meet local code.

• Check lifesaving equipment: Life rings, hooks, and alarms should be in good condition.

• Review pool rules: Set expectations for guests and children—no running, no diving in shallow ends, no glass near the pool.

Tip: Consider enrolling children and new swimmers in local water safety courses before the season begins.

6. Optional Upgrades: Memorial Day Makeovers

Thinking of a refresh?

• LED lighting: Enhances nighttime ambiance and improves safety.

• Water features: Fountains or scuppers add a luxurious, spa-like element.

• Smart automation: Control filtration, lighting, and heating from your phone.

Tip: Gary Pools offers a wide range of design consultations if you’re looking to enhance your pool’s aesthetic and functional appeal.

Final Thoughts: Preparation Enhances Enjoyment

Memorial Day is more than just a three-day weekend. It’s a moment to honor service, gather with loved ones, and enjoy the seasonal gifts that make life beautiful. A properly prepared pool enhances every aspect of that experience—delivering not just fun, but peace of mind.

If you need assistance with a water test, equipment inspection, or service visit, the team at Gary Pools is here to help. With seven decades of expertise in the unique demands of Texas pools, we’re proud to be your trusted partner in backyard enjoyment.

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