Maintaining balanced water chemistry is essential not only for a safe swimming environment but also for the longevity of your pool equipment. This second installment will guide you through the key elements of pool water chemistry, including testing methods, chemical balancing, and tips for ensuring your water remains clear and comfortable all summer long.
Testing and Balancing Chemicals
Once you know your pool circulation system is running efficiently (see our blog, “Pool Cleaning 101”), the next step is to sanitize, test, and balance your pool water. It’s recommended to check your water chemistry at least once a week using test strips.
When you purchase a maintenance package from River Rock Pools, we test your pool water on-site with a professional testing system and apply the required adjustments.
Here’s a breakdown of the essential chemicals that need to be monitored and adjusted to keep pool water safe and clear:
1. Hardness (Calcium)
It’s crucial to balance calcium hardness to prevent damage to your pool’s components. Low hardness can cause corrosion and unsightly foam on the water surface, while high hardness can cause scaling and may leave calcium deposits on your pool equipment. Increase hardness by adding calcium and reduce it by partially draining the pool water.
2. Total Chlorine
Maintain a healthy chlorine level to keep your pool sanitized. You can raise chlorine levels using chlorine pucks, liquid chlorine, or by boosting the production of your salt cell. If using chlorine pucks with stabilizer, be sure to monitor your stabilizer (cyanuric acid) levels and switch to non-stabilized chlorine pucks if necessary.
3. Salt
If you have a saltwater pool, ensure that your salt levels stay between 2800 and 3400 ppm. Add salt to increase levels, or partially drain and refill pool water to decrease them.
4. pH
Begin by adjusting your alkalinity first, as a balanced alkalinity will typically keep your pH levels stable as well. Once the alkalinity is correct, you can adjust the pH directly using pH plus or minus.
5. Alkalinity
Alkalinity often runs low when the pool is first filled. If it’s too high, use pH minus or alkalinity reducers to correct it.
6. Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer)
This is vital for maintaining balanced pH and alkalinity levels. Be cautious with chlorine pucks that contain stabilizer, as this can gradually raise stabilizer levels. If chlorine is low but the stabilizer is adequate, switch to non-stabilized pucks.
7. Algaecide
Use algaecide only when necessary—typically for very green water or during closing. Use sparingly, as excess can increase phosphate levels and lead to foaming.
Remember, these are the primary chemicals you need to maintain clean water. Try to avoid additional products like softeners and clarifiers, as they can complicate balance, clog your filters, and make it difficult to diagnose issues with water chemistry.
Conclusion
Maintaining your home pool might feel overwhelming at first, but by consistently testing, balancing, and cleaning, it can evolve into a simple routine. Adhering to these practices will create a safe and inviting backyard oasis for everyone to enjoy throughout the summer. Enjoy your swimming season!
