Phase 9 — Start Up • Homeowner Checklist • DIY Pools & Spas

Why this phase matters

The first 30 days are everything. Your plaster is still curing — soft, sensitive, and still bonding to the shell. Brush daily, never run the heater or add salt for 30 days, and keep the water level above the tile line. What you do now determines how your pool looks for 20 years.

Customize first. Some items only apply to certain projects (spa, fountains, art rock, etc.). Toggle the Project Options below before printing or sharing.

Homeowner

Dig Date

Plan Ahead

Before This Phase

Have your startup tech scheduled to arrive within 24 hours of the fill completing.

Confirm electrical is hooked up to the pump — a dry start by your electrician is worth doing to verify power.

Have a nylon brush and telescopic pole ready (never stainless steel — it will mar the plaster).

Have a test kit or test strips ready, and locate your nearest pool supply store for their free chemical analysis.

Cure Carefully

Day Of

Brush the entire pool surface daily for the first 30 days — removes plaster dust and ensures a smooth finish.

Never run the heater for the first 30 days (plaster needs to fully cure first).

Do not add salt for the first 30 days.

Do not put the suction pool cleaner in for the first 30 days — its tracks will mar soft plaster.

Keep water level above the tile line at all times — exposing fresh plaster ruins the cure.

Take a water sample to your local pool supply store for free chemical analysis. Get hardness/calcium right early — protects the cure.

Optional

Pro Tips

Get a water balance report from your startup tech and keep it as a record.

Clean the cartridge filter after the first 1–2 weeks — plaster dust loads it up fast.

If you live in a freeze area: get a salt cell winterizing tube for the cold months.

Save your equipment manuals and create a labeled photo of your pump pad — invaluable for service techs and warranty claims.

Check the GFCI on your panel breakers if pumps or lights stop — they trip easily in weather.

Optional

Notes

Welcome to your pool.

The build is complete. Brush daily, balance the water, and enjoy the backyard you built. Save the PDF for your records.