Getting your pool ready for spring doesn't have to mean a trip to every aisle in the pool store or a cluttered garage full of gear you'll never use. If you’re prepping your pool for the season in Central Texas, a handful of smart tools and supplies will get the job done without the overwhelm. Here’s what you actually need—and what you can skip.

Pool Supplies You Actually Need:

Pool Pole
A sturdy, adjustable pool pole is essential for attaching skimmer nets, brushes, and vacuums to keep your pool clean with ease.
Pool Skimmer Net
Winter storms and seasonal winds dump a lot of debris in your pool. A skimmer net makes it easier to collect leaves, twigs, and bugs in one go. Attach it to your pool pole for extended reach and better control.
Pool Brush
Brushing the walls and steps helps remove algae, dirt, and biofilm that your filter alone won’t catch. It also helps you spot problem areas early, such as rough or discolored areas that may indicate algae, calcium buildup, or surface damage. Attach it to your pool pole to easily scrub all areas of your pool.
Water Test Kit or Test Strips
You can’t fix what you can’t see. Test your water for chlorine, pH, alkalinity, calcium harness, and stabilizer levels. This is a non-negotiable step to protect your pool surface and equipment.
Pool Vacuum (Manual or Automatic)
After brushing and skimming, a good vacuum removes all that fine debris sitting at the bottom. Manual pool vacuums are great for control, while robotic pool vacuums save time.
Chemicals (Based on Test Results)
Once you test your water, you’ll need the right balancing chemicals (like chlorine, pH adjusters, algaecide, or stabilizer) to bring levels into range. We’ll walk through this step in our pool prep series, so stay tuned.
An Extra Hand (If You Have a Cover)
If your pool has a cover, it can be heavy and tricky to remove on your own. Having an extra set of hands can make this task much easier.

What You Don’t Need for Your Central Texas Pool Prep:

Every "miracle" product at the pool store
Clarifiers, phosphate removers, and specialty treatments are often oversold. Focus on proper water balance first.
Specialty brushes for every surface
Unless you have glass tile or a delicate interior finish, a standard nylon pool brush does the job.
Giant buckets of chemicals "just in case"
Buy only what you need based on your test results. Overbuying leads to wasted products, clutter, and chemical imbalances from overuse. Plus, storing large containers of chemicals improperly can be a safety hazard—if knocked over or exposed to moisture, they can spill, degrade, or even create dangerous fumes. Always store pool chemicals in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children and pets.
Pressure washing your deck after dealing with the pool
Do this before the pool is cleaned and balanced—otherwise, you'll end up blowing dirt and debris into your freshly prepped water.

Make It Easy: Prep in Advance

We’ll be walking through a 3-day pool prep series starting this weekend. Gather your supplies now so you’re ready to dive in (figuratively) when it’s time. If you want to keep it all streamlined, grab our printable checklist and follow along!

Spring Pool Prep Supply Checklist!

Your dream pool doesn’t start with expensive gear—it starts with smart prep and consistency.

Need Help with Your Pool Remodel Before the Season Kicks Off?

We’re here to bring your dream pool to life just in time for the warmer months. Whether you're looking for small updates to your existing pool or to start fresh with a complete overhaul, let’s discuss your vision and goals. Our team is currently booking spring and summer project spots in the Hill Country area (Austin, Westlake Hills, Lakeway, Dripping Springs, Belterra, Bee Cave, Steiner Ranch, Travis Heights, South Austin, North Austin, Central Austin, and more) so now is the perfect time to secure your spot before the season really heats up. Don’t wait—let’s make your backyard oasis a reality!

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