The seasonal start-up of splash pads and interactive fountains is a critical period during which teams ensure that the water play features and fountains are in good working condition and meet safety standards.

Following extended inactivity, stagnant water may support microbial growth, making thorough flushing and disinfection a necessary part of the start-up process. This process allows technicians to verify the safety and regulatory compliance of the equipment. After a prolonged shutdown, stagnant water in pipes may support microbial growth, making thorough flushing and disinfection essential. The seasonal start-up ensures that public aquatic installations meet the standards required by local legislation.

The Importance of Seasonal Start-Up for Splash Pads and Interactive Fountains

Seasonal start-up of water play installations is a crucial step in the operational cycle, providing the following benefits:

• User safety, by preventing health risks associated with stagnant water and biofilm formation during periods of inactivity. 
• Optimal system performance, by ensuring all components function correctly after months of disuse. 
• Equipment longevity, by detecting and addressing early signs of wear or malfunction. 
• Regulatory compliance, by adhering to health and safety standards. 
• Resource efficiency, through water and energy conservation enabled by properly calibrated systems. 

Checklist for Water Play Features and Fountains

Below is a recommended seasonal start-up checklist for splash pads and fountains. This list should be customized to reflect the specific features of your installation. If available, always refer to your manufacturer’s start-up checklist. 

Please note that the steps below may not be performed in strict order. The checklist is intended as a comprehensive guide and should be adapted based on the specifics of your installation and team workflow.

Preliminary Visual Inspection

• Check for visible structural damage to surrounding surfaces
• Inspect the condition of elevated features, nozzles, jets, and LED lights
• Remove debris, leaves, and foreign objects
• Examine visible fittings, seals, and joints for signs of deterioration or leakage

Hydraulic System

• Clean all filters and strainers
• Inspect pump condition (bearings, mechanical seals, etc.)
• Check and clean solenoid valves
• Verify and adjust pressure regulators
• Inspect piping for potential leaks
• Confirm proper operation of backflow preventers 

Water Treatment

• Thoroughly clean and disinfect the water containment system before filling
• Calibrate and test the measuring devices (pH, chlorine, temperature)
• Verify the chemical dosing system is functioning properly
• Prepare required stocks of water treatment chemicals
• Check that the filtration system is operational 

Electrical and Control Systems (have a licensed electrician test the following)

• Inspect electrical panels and connections
• Check waterproof seals on all electrical enclosures
• Test GFCIs and protective devices
• Verify automation and control systems
• Check sensor functionality (wind, temperature, rain)
• Test all LED lights and replace defective components
• Confirm that activators or presence detection systems are functioning properly

Commissioning

• Gradually fill with water
• Start the water treatment and filtration system
• Balance water chemistry (pH, disinfectant/ORP)
• Start filtration pump(s)
• Start feature pump(s)
• Purge air from the piping system
• Test each water jet and interactive sequence individually
• Confirm synchronization of water and light (if applicable) 

Testing and Adjustments

• Conduct full water quality analysis
• Adjust jet height and pattern
• Test all interactive features
• Measure electricity consumption (requires a licensed electrician)
• Set timers and operational hours 

Safety and Compliance

• Ensure all signage and informational panels are in place and undamaged
• Train operational staff on updated procedures, if necessary 

Documentation and Monitoring

• Update the maintenance log
• Document any issues identified during start-up
• Schedule preventive maintenance for the season
• Set up a daily monitoring protocol
• Archive initial water quality test results
• Ensure availability of essential spare parts 

Post-Start-Up Monitoring

After the initial start-up procedures are complete and documented, it is crucial to monitor the system closely during the first few weeks of operation.

During this period, your team should:

• Maintain close supervision during the first few days of operation
• Conduct frequent water quality tests in the first week
• Adjust water treatment parameters based on analysis results
• Plan weekly inspections during the first month

Seasonal Start-Up Support by Vortex Aquatic Structures 

Aquatic parks and municipalities equipped with Splashpad® products or interactive fountains from Vortex benefit from both on-site technical support and a dedicated customer service center. These resources are available to assist you with annual start-up, seasonal commissioning, and winterization of your water play systems.