How do I properly fill and start up my Plungie pool?

1. Construction Cover Removal

If your Plungie was delivered with a construction cover:

• Ensure safety fencing is installed before removing the cover

• Wear protective gloves (edges are sharp)

• Use an adjustable wrench, hand drill, and screwdriver

• Remove builder straps, flashing, and screws

• Lift panels vertically—do not drag them

• Store or recycle responsibly

Safety Tip: Each panel weighs ~22 lbs. Only lift what you're capable of.

2. Cleaning the Pool Before Filling

• Power wash the ecoFinish surface (max 2300 psi, fan setting)

• If needed, apply 30:70 hydrochloric acid/water with a soft brush

• Rinse thoroughly with clean water

• Use a hand pump to remove runoff water

Safety Note: Use full PPE when handling acid.

3. Pre-Fill Checklist

• Remove all packaging or boxes from the pool interior

• Empty debris from skimmer basket

• Confirm hydrostatic valve is installed properly (see Section 6 below)

4. Filling the Pool

• Fill with fresh water to 1/2 – 3/4 up the skimmer opening

• Takes up to 24 hours depending on pool size

• Add EasyCare StartUp-Tec (or equivalent) while filling:

Model	Volume (gal)	Summer Dose	Spring/Autumn Dose
Arena	2,375	1 cup	2 cups
Studio	2,130	7/8 cup	1 3/4 cups
Original	3,280	1 1/2 cups	3 cups
Max	5,340	2 1/4 cups	4 1/2 cups

5. Initial Water Balancing

• Bring a sample to your local pool shop

• Provide pool volume, interior finish, and equipment type

• Follow their recommendations for product and dosage

Poor water chemistry may void your warranty.

6. Installing the Hydrostatic Valve

Prevents shell lift from groundwater pressure during rain. Install before filling:

1. Locate the hydrostatic valve (inside pool, bubble-wrapped)

2. Insert backplate into 2" cast-in fitting using a rubber mallet

3. Secure suction cover with screws

4. Insert and tap return fittings into 1.5" side fittings

5. Confirm flush and sealed installation

Keep the valve area clean of debris to avoid leaks.

7. Equipment Startup + Precautions

• Never start pump without water

• Make sure all plumbing valves are open

• Follow equipment manuals for initial run times

• Let the system circulate for several hours for proper mixing

Recommended salt/mineral system startup (40 lb bags):

• Arena: 2 bags

• Studio: 2 bags

• Original: 3 bags

• Max: 4 bags

8. Winterizing Your Plungie

If you’re in a freeze zone:

1. Balance water chemistry:

   • pH: 7.2–7.6

   • Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm

   • Calcium hardness: 180–220 ppm

2. Remove and store accessories (skimmer basket, ladders, etc.)

3. Thoroughly clean pool and lower water 12" below skimmer

4. Drain and store pool equipment

5. Lubricate all O-rings

6. Clear and plug plumbing lines

7. Add antifreeze (if needed)

8. Winterize skimmer box (remove, dry, plug ports)

9. Add winterizing chemicals (algaecide, floaters)

10. Cover the pool securely with safety cover or tarp

Never fully drain the pool—it can shift or crack.

FAQs

Q: Can I fill the pool before the hydrostatic valve is installed?
A: No. The valve must be installed first to prevent float or structural issues.

Q: What if the pool fills with rainwater before cleaning?
A: Pump it out and clean the surface with a power washer and/or mild acid solution.

Q: Can I use regular salt for a saltwater system?
A: Use only pool-grade salt or mineral systems as directed by your manufacturer.

Q: What happens if I skip winterization in a cold climate?
A: You risk damaging the pool shell, plumbing, and equipment—voiding warranty.

Summary: Step 8 prepares your Plungie pool for a lifetime of use. It includes safe construction cover removal, hydrostatic valve installation, proper cleaning, water balancing, and seasonal care. Follow each instruction carefully to avoid costly mistakes and protect your investment.