Pub. 5 2020 Issue 3

16 www.ctaahq.org W e are now approaching the beginning of pool sea- son; except we are in the midst of an unprecedented pandemic. As pool professionals we are always looking to seek the latest information from various state and federal agencies so we can continue to serve and educate the swimming pool community. We have been in constant con- tact with our suppliers and manufacturers to make sure we are well stocked for summer. There is no question that things are going to be different for all of us. We have been answering a lot of phone calls recently, asking us, “what do we do, should we open the pool?” Much like you, we have more questions than answers on how the future will play out. What we do know is the science to protect your pool and the know-how to keep your pools safe and problem free. We are strongly recommending that the pools be opened on schedule one of two ways. Option one would be to fully start the pool and have it ready to go. This would also provide the aesthetic value and the state of mind of residents to see some peaceful blue normalcy. Option two would be to start the pool so the circulation system can run, and recover the pool. This will allow the pool to stay healthy and keep the fence jumpers out … I’m sure many of you have some stories about that. When the OK is given to allow bathers in to the pool area, the cover can be removed and the pool will be ready to go. The other option you have is to leave the pool closed entirely for the season. This is one of the questions we also have been receiving. This is definitely the worst option to maintain the condition of the pool. I know I have personally worked with many of you, and we all know the expensive renovations, repairs, and work that have gone into these pools. We need to protect these pools and ultimately the investments made by our communities. Below are some of the many problems we are trying to avoid within our pools. If you were to choose this option the water level should be pumped down below the returns. Also the pool should be re-winterized in the fall to make absolutely sure no water seeped into the lines and that the plugs are still in good shape, as poor water balance can Pandemic Proof Your Pool “AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION IS WORTH A POUND OF CURE”