Pool Water Chemistry 101
Many link the distinct smell of chlorine with a poolside, and for a good reason.
Swimming pools are an enjoyable amenity at home, but maintaining them takes effort. It starts with keeping them clean and the pump and filter operational. But far from ending there, it's even more a matter of grasping water chemistry.
Here is a guide on pool water chemistry that gives beginners a crash course on keeping pool water healthy.
The basics of water chemistry
Pool water's pH level determines its acidity or alkalinity. The pH scale is a spectrum of acids and bases ranging from 0 to 14. A pH value of 7 is neutral, with the ideal pool water value being closer to neutral, or around 7.2 and 7.8.
Water with a low pH is too acidic, which will corrode pool equipment and can irritate the skin and eyes. Meanwhile, a high pH can cause scaling on the pool's surface and cloud the water.
Chlorine's role
Many link the distinct smell of chlorine with a poolside, and for a good reason. Chlorine kills bacteria and other pathogens that find pool water a fertile ground for multiplication. It enters the pool water through the filtration system and is available in many forms, such as granules and tablets.
While chlorine is necessary for a safe pool, please don't overdo it. Its ideal levels are between one and three parts per million (ppm). Test and adapt the levels if they fluctuate or the water seems cloudy.
Balancing alkalinity
Total alkalinity (TA) measures the water's ability to neutralize acids, stabilizing the pH level. The best TA level for pool water is between 80 and 120 ppm. If TA is too low, pH levels can fluctuate widely. If it's too high, the pH might become resistant to change and lead to cloudy water.
Calcium hardness matters
Calcium hardness (CH) is the amount of dissolved calcium in the water. Ideally, it should be between 150 to 800 ppm. Low CH can mean erosion and damage to the pool, while high CH might make scale build-up and the water cloudy.
Testing and adjustment
Chemical elements play a role in pool water quality, and frequent testing is necessary, especially in warmer seasons. Pool owners can buy test kits to measure pH, chlorine, TA, and CH. If you find that the chemicals in the pool are unbalanced and aren't sure how to handle the situation, it's a good idea to contact pool cleaning professionals who can lend a hand in pool chemical balancing.
Balance the chemicals
Chemistry is a fascinating science, and its power becomes practically evident in pool maintenance. Test the pool water regularly for pH, chlorine, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness to keep it healthy and enjoyable for the whole family. Professional pool cleaning services help when the pool needs attention and care beyond basic maintenance.
If you have a pool need, whether it’s renovation, lighting, or something else, call Magic Matt’s Pools at 623-255-2239 today!
