Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Know-How: Pool Chemical Balance

Each time I go to a pool service store I'm impressed by the broad explanations store representatives use to explain the proper pool water balance in an attempt to save a pool owner from algae or other problems.

Also, when reading many online swimming pool forums I notice that many people - with good intentions - claim to be water industry experts and will attempt to dazzle you with complex water chemistry ideas.

Nothing against online forums and good people talking about their swimming pools! But you know what? It's actually very easy to figure out what the pool chemical balance should be.

Chlorine residual: 1.0 - 3.0 ppm
Alkalinity: 80 - 150 ppm
pH: 7.4 - 7.6
Hardness: 200 - 400 ppm
Cyanuric acid: 30 - 80 ppm
Dissolved solids: less than 2000 ppm

Here is the reason why you need to know and apply this to your swimming pool...

If you add too much or too little chemical to your pool then your chemicals will be out of balance and this could cause problems, including the risk of algae growth.

You don't have to be perfect here. But, if you're in then general ballpark of the above numbers you're probably doing better than most people who never pay attention to their swimming pool. And you're going a long way to ensuring that your pool remains clean and free from algae.

A word of caution: each chemical will work with the other so achieving a good balance should never be overlooked. With that all said, be careful when you pour chemicals and be aware of what could happen to your pool water if you forget to pour anything at all.

Always think and ask yourself how much really needs to be added at any given time so you can maintain ideal water chemistry. Most importantly, always follow all applicable safety procedures when handling pool chemicals.

Know you pool, enjoy your pool!

Regards,

Paul Ottaviano
Construction of a Pool Deck & bonus:
How to Get Rid of Visible Algae in Pool











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