# Summer Pool Start-Up > Getting a pool properly ready for summer, usually done in a single visit. A pool that's sat through winter without much attention needs more than a quick skim before it's ready for regular summer use. A summer start-up brings everything, the water, the filter, the equipment, back to where it needs to be, usually in a single visit. ## What's Included **A start-up visit covers** - A full clean: scooping, brushing, and vacuuming - A filter backwash or clean - A water test and full rebalance - A shock dose if needed - An equipment check on the pump, chlorinator, and heat pump - A salt top up for salt pools - Phosphate treatment - Any specialty products you'd like, such as Beautec (a scale and stain preventative) or Duck Off (a bird deterrent) - Advice on summer care and our regular plans ## Chemicals and Products Chemicals and any specialty products are charged separately, based on what the pool actually needs on the day, not a flat add-on regardless of condition. ## Why a Pool Needs More Than a Skim After Winter Chlorine breaks down faster in the sun once summer really sets in, and a pool that's been ticking along on a light winter schedule usually hasn't been dosed or tested for that heavier demand yet. Filters also tend to be coming off their easiest stretch of the year, since less use over winter still means months of build-up sitting in the media. Getting the water rebalanced and the filter properly serviced before the pool sees regular summer use catches both of those before they turn into a bigger job. ## What Affects the Cost - How much attention the pool's had over winter - How much chemical rebalancing and shock dosing it needs - Whether any specialty products are wanted, like Beautec or Duck Off - Whether the equipment check turns up anything needing more than a look ## Frequently Asked Questions **How long does a summer start-up take?** Usually done in a single visit, covering the full clean, filter service, water rebalance, and equipment check in one go. **Are chemicals included in the start-up price?** No, chemicals and any specialty products are charged separately, based on what your pool actually needs on the day. **What if my pool needs more than a standard start-up?** If the water's turned green or equipment needs repairing rather than just checking, that's covered separately under Green Pool Recovery or the relevant repairs and installs service, and we'll talk you through what's needed as part of the visit. **Do I need a start-up if I'm already on a regular plan?** If your pool's been on a regular plan through winter it likely won't need a full start-up, but get in touch if it's been a while since the last visit or the pool needs a proper once-over before summer. ## Related Services - [Green Pool Recovery](https://opulentpools.co.nz/green-pool-recovery) - [Filter & Media Changes](https://opulentpools.co.nz/repairs-and-installs/filter-and-media-changes) - [Salt Chlorinator Installs](https://opulentpools.co.nz/repairs-and-installs/salt-chlorinator-installs) [Pool turned green over winter? See Green Pool Recovery](https://opulentpools.co.nz/green-pool-recovery) ## Ready to Get the Pool Summer-Ready? Get in touch and we'll book in a start-up visit before the season gets busy. ## Get a Quote [/contact](https://opulentpools.co.nz/contact) · [021 0260 0909](tel:02102600909) · [cooper@opulentpools.co.nz](mailto:cooper@opulentpools.co.nz)