Take some time to thoroughly clean your pool. That should be your first step. It’s important to clean out any dirt and debris that may have collected inside. Otherwise, the new water that you put in will be dirty from the very start. In order to prevent wasting water, by using more than necessary, it’s important to do the process properly. The last thing you want to have to do is to start over and waste what you already put in. It takes a good amount of water to fill up your pool depending on the size of the pool that you own.

You should also inspect your pool equipment. Be certain that your pump and filter are both in good working condition. Even if your equipment is new, you need to make sure that they are both working as they should be. You don’t want to turn on the pump until you have reached the halfway point in filling up your pool. You can run the risk of burning up your pump if you don’t make sure the water is high enough. For more information on troubleshooting pump problems when filling up your pool see Aqua magazine's article.

Another thing to be sure of is that you have the circulation system turned on the entire time you are filling up the swimming pool. Someone needs to be available to keep an eye on it even though it can be hours before it is finished. Do not leave your home once you turn on the water and start this process. They will need to be ready to shut the water off should any problems come up. For the same reasons it is not a good idea to let it fill up overnight.

Do not start adding any chemicals to the water before the pool is completely filled up. At that point then you add only what you need, based on the type and size of your swimming pool. It’s important that you pay special attention during this phase. If it is not done correctly you may have to drain the water and start completely over. You will definitely notice your mistake when your water bill comes in the mail the next month.

Have the chemicals and supplies on hand that you will need to stabilize your water. Use your test strips to check your levels. One of the key factors to focus on is your pH level. You may need to add different chemicals to get your levels where they should be.   To calculate the proper pH level refer to the pH pool calculator. They make kits that simplify this step by just placing them in the water and comparing your results on a color chart.

Even though filling up your swimming pool can take a good amount of time to complete properly, it is definitely worth the time and effort you put into doing it right. Your goal is to have clear water with just the right mix of chemicals in it for you to swim in. The last thing you want to worry about is algae, bacteria, or your skin drying out. Being careful to do it right from the beginning should avoid having any problems with it at all.

Some areas have water restrictions that may apply. If this applies to your area, then you will need to get a permit to fill up your pool. You may be restricted to certain hours or days that you are able to fill up your pool. Be sure to follow the regulations but plan on the extended time it will take to complete the process. Conserving water is very important, and you should honor those community stipulations.