Whether you've just had a pool built, replastered, or you're bringing a previously-closed pool back online, the startup process is critical. Done wrong, you can stain new plaster, scale a salt cell on day one, or kill brand-new equipment with unbalanced water. Done right, you set the foundation for years of low-maintenance, sparkling water.
We follow the National Plasterers Council startup protocol for new and replastered pools, and a tailored protocol for seasonal re-opens. Either way you get a thorough first month of attention from a tech who knows exactly what new water in Florida needs.
What's Included
New plaster startup
30-day brushing, balancing, and chemistry program designed for fresh plaster.
Replaster startup
Bicarb start or traditional startup depending on plaster type and contractor recommendation.
Seasonal re-opens
Full clean, equipment startup, water balance, and first chemical shock.
Salt and stabilizer set
Salt level brought to spec, CYA built carefully, and chlorine established before the first swim.
Equipment commissioning
Pump, filter, heater, salt system, and automation programmed and verified.
Handoff or ongoing service
We can hand the pool back to you with a written care plan or roll into weekly service.
How It Works
- 1
Pre-fill consult
We coordinate with your builder or contractor and confirm the startup protocol.
- 2
Day-of-fill visit
We're on-site as the pool fills, testing source water and adding sequestrants if needed.
- 3
30-day care program
Daily brushing for the first week, then a structured 30-day water-chemistry plan.
Why It Matters
The first 30 days of a new or replastered pool dictate the long-term look and durability of the finish. Aggressive water leaches calcium out of fresh plaster; high pH causes scale that's almost impossible to remove later. Doing it right the first time saves thousands.
Seasonal startups matter just as much. Pumping cold, stagnant water with no chlorine through a heater is a recipe for trapped gunk and corrosion. We open pools the right way.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a new pool startup cost?+
Full 30-day new plaster startups in the Orlando area typically run $450-$700 depending on pool size and equipment complexity.
Do you work with my pool builder?+
Yes — we coordinate with most local builders and follow their preferred startup protocol, or the NPC standard if they don't specify.
How soon after filling can we swim?+
Usually 7-10 days for a traditional new plaster startup, depending on water chemistry. We tell you the moment it's safe.
Do you do salt-system startups?+
Yes. We don't introduce salt until plaster is set (typically 28 days for new plaster), then dial in the system.