Gearing up to open my AG....HELP????

[traceyb]

This is my plan, stop or add to me if you so see the need....please!

Clean off cover, pull it off keeping as much of the ick on top OUT of the pool.

Hook up pump/filter and aqualuminator. Remove skimmer box cover.
Over fill the pool.
Vacuum and brush on Waste very well, then backwash, rinse, and then circulate for 24 hours and get a reading.

[Watermom]

Sounds like you are on the right track. The only thing I might add is that if there is a lot of debris in the pool, I would scoop it out with your net before you vacuum or brush.

[traceyb]

Thanks watermom. Took the cover off yesterday. With the exeption of a few dirt clods here and there and about 20 earthworms (dead of course) The water is as beautiful as when the cover went on. Can you explain the order of starting the pump/filter. Do I need to vacuum and brush if its this clean? If not or if so then how long do I need to backwash and rinse before I start circulation. I have to circulate 24 hours w/ the new H2O before my pool person wants a sample, but I'm ready to get on with the program. HELP!

[CarlD]

You forgot 2 very important steps:

Test water

Adjust pH and shock to sanitize the water.

[traceyb]

Shocked, slowly adding baking soda, chlorine is at a 3, so waiting for it to drop a bit then I will carry on w/ the ALK! Thanks guys,,,,so far it's gorgeous, just need mr sunshine.