Houston summers bring intense heat that makes your backyard pool the perfect place to cool off. Before you dive in, it’s crucial to get your pool ready for the season. Proper preparation ensures clean, safe water and a smooth swimming experience all summer long. Follow these essential steps to make sure your pool is in top shape for Houston’s scorching heat.

It starts in early October, when the air turns crisp (for Houston, anyway) and the trees begin their slow-motion betrayal—shedding leaves one at a time like they’ve got a grudge against your pool.

Here’s a look at some common pool problems to watch for and why off-season maintenance matters.