The pool finish will start to hydrate immediately after mixing, with the majority of hydration taking place within the first 28 days. This critical time period is when a finish is most susceptible to staining, scaling and discoloration. Proper start-up procedures including timely brushing and constant monitoring and adjusting of the pool water is mandatory. The following recommended start-up method is based on procedures shown to produce the best aesthetic results. In addition, wheeled cleaners should not be placed into the pool until after 28 days, the pool heater should not be turned on before all plaster dust is gone, and no one should walk on the pool surface before the pool fills with water.
POOL FILLING DAY
Water is re-introduced into your newly plastered swimming pool with the use of filtration tanks that will remove any impurities or metals in the water. We like to use the filter tanks on every application as it adds to many of the steps we take to make sure your pool will have the best outcome possible. The number of tanks used depend on whether you are hooked up to city or well water, the size of your pool and often times the color you choose can affect which tank set up we prefer to use.
If stated to do so in the agreement, E&M will send in a service company to complete a 3 day chemical start up. This is also a very important step in the process and during these 3 days the homeowner should add absolutely nothing to the pool. Leave the equipment the way the serviceman has it and ask as many questions as you like!
DAY 1
Test pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness and metals. Low alkalinity should be adjusted to 80 ppm using sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). pH should be reduced to 7.2 to 7.6 adding pre-diluted Muriatic Acid if the alkalinity is already 80-100 ppm. Brush the entire pool surface daily to remove all plaster dust. Although optional, it is highly recommended to pre-dilute and add a quality sequestering agent using the recommended initial start-up dosage and then the recommended maintenance dosage per the sequestering agent’s manufacturer. Operate filtration system continuously for a minimum 24 hours. DO NOT add chlorine for 48 hours. DO NOT turn on pool heater until there is no plaster dust in the pool.
DAY 2
Brush the Pool
Test pH, Alkalinity and Calcium Hardness and repeat steps of 1st DAY. Once the alkalinity is adjusted to 80ppm and the pH is adjusted to 7.2 to 7.6, then adjust calcium hardness levels to a minimum of 150 ppm. (Caution: Adjustments requiring more than 20 Lbs of CaCl2 should be pre-diluted and added in 10 lbs increments - morning and afternoon)
DAY 3
Pre-diluted chlorine may now be added to achieve 1.5 to 3 ppm NO SALT SHOULD BE ADDED FOR 28 DAYS.
