A startup is a term you might hear very often in the swimming pool industry, but what even is it?
In general terms, a startup is a process that involves a series of steps to ensure that a new pool is properly prepared and ready to use after the building, surfacing, and installation of equipment and water features have been completed.
Depending on the type of finish, some startup processes might be more delicate than others. Specifically for cementitious materials such as plaster, pebble, or quartz, the startup is a crucial procedure for the longevity and quality of the finish. Traditional and old fashioned methods such as the hot startup, have shown a high failure rate and compromised finishes in the recent years. That is why in Orenda we have designed the Orenda startup, backed up by years of research, theoretical knowledge, and in the field experience.
We have also created resources for those committed to quality in our industry, such as our podcast, blog articles, videos, and the Orenda Academy, our free educational courses that cover everything (or almost everything) you need to know about pool startups, maintenance or any topic related to pool chemistry.
Here is a basic outline of a startup process:
-
Water Filling
-
Water Balancing (if your pool surface is cementitious, the balancing of the chemistry should occur as your pool is filling to guarantee an optimal curing and proper hardening of the cement, as described in the Orenda Startup)
-
Filtration System Priming
-
Equipment Testing
-
Pool Cleaning
-
Water Treatment and Sanitization
-
Safety Measures
It's important to note that specific startup processes and the time in between each step may vary based on factors such as pool type (e.g., concrete, fiberglass, vinyl), local regulations, and the expertise of the pool contractor or professional involved. Consulting with a pool professional or contractor is recommended to ensure a proper startup process tailored to your specific pool.