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Swimming Pool - In-Ground

Pool Start Up

Water

The first is water needs to be added. The liner installers will need to cut in the intakes, the returns, and the steps, but there needs to be some water in the pool to hold the liner in place. Remember the vacs: they run continuously until the pool has some water. 

The water level will need to be just below the top of the first step, which will be about 50% of the total capacity of the pool. In other words 1,000s of gallons. 

Water Supply: You need to think about your water source to fill the pool. If you are on municipal water, how much will it cost? And don't forget, if you are on municipal sewage, every gallon of water that flows into your pool will be charged as if it went into the sewage, meaning you will pay twice. If you are on a well, it may not be a good idea to use that much water. What are the alternatives? Water service at 4-5 cents per gallon, or maybe your local fire company can provide it at a lower rate or for free.

Cut In

The stairs, the intake openings, and the returns need to be cut in, which means the liner is cut away from the openings. Sealed brackets are placed over the cut edges of the liner, around all the openings, which are then screwed into place, preventing a leak.

Filtration Equipment

The filtration equipment consists of a filter and a pump. Water is drawn through the intakes. It enters the filter, where it is cleaned, and then reenters the pool through the returns.

Electrical Connections

To run the filter system, and if you have a light in your pool, you will need an electrical hookup. The hookup, in addition to providing electricity for the pump, will also drive one or more timers. One timer will turn the pump on and off. The other can be used to drive a plug, allowing you to time anything else you want.

The cost of the electrician is typically not included with the other costs for the pool. The home owners is expected to make their own arrangements, but the pool construction company will have someone they usually work with.

Ideas: Electricity Near the Pool Having a plug and second timer can be useful. You can use it for music or lighting. And it does not cost very much to have it done at the same time the pool electricity is installed.

Filtration Hook Up

As we discussed in the framing section, the pipes were all set in place. The pipes will be connected to the pump as the last step before the project is completed.

Equipment Start Up

One the filtration system is connected, it will be tested and all the connections will be checked to ensure there is no leakage. Once everything works without a problem, you move on to the Back Fill stage.

Back Fill

All the dirt that was removed during construction and piled in your yard will now be used to fill in the area around the frame and provide a level surface around the pool. The dirt will be filled to the top of the frame, stopping at the bottom of the coping. The cement deck will extend to the top of the coping.

Cement Deck

The cement deck is the final step. If you have a diving board, the base will be in position. A ladder for the deep end will also be in position. And, if done right, a rebar frame will be put in place before the cement is poured. The cement will take a few days to set, but you will not be able to use the diving board for about 30 days.

To help your cement dry properly, with maximum strength, you should keep it damp for several days.

In the next section we will give you some pointers to help you get the best deal, ensure that you get the information from the pool company that you need, and how to manage the process, as well as possible alternatives.

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