Pool owners want to ensure their pool water looks crystal clear and that it’s clean and safe for swimming, right? The key to achieving those things is to ensure the pool’s chemistry is perfectly balanced. There are three main elements that result in balanced (or unbalanced!) pool water — alkalinity, pH and sterilization. Aquaman Pools explains what these things do and how to make sure they are balanced to achieve sparkling clean and clear pool water.
Alkalinity — The total alkalinity in the pool is the measure of resistance the water has to changing pH. For example, the higher the total alkalinity the water has, the more challenging it is to change the pH. The satisfactory range of a pool’s total alkalinity falls between 90 and 140 parts per million (ppm). However, ideally it should fall between the smaller range of between 100 and 120 ppm. Through the use of a water evaluation tool kit, homeowners can assess their pool water’s complete alkalinity levels. If test results come back with alkalinity numbers outside the aforementioned satisfactory or ideal ranges, sodium bicarbonate (otherwise known as baking soda) can be added to up those numbers and sodium bisulfate can be added to the water to lower those numbers.
pH Level — Maintaining the water’s pH balance is one of the most important aspects of caring for one’s pool and for keeping it clean and clear. Aquaman Pools recommends homeowners check their pool water’s pH levels on a weekly basis. During that check, the water’s pH should range between 7.4 and 7.6. Anything lower than 7.4 can result in equipment and gear issues and irritate swimmers’ skin; anything higher than 7.6 can cause unsightly rings and stains at the pool’s water line. Once again, the addition of elements can help balance out those numbers. The addition of liquid muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate is needed to decrease the pH level; sodium carbonate can be added to increase the pH level.
Sterilization — Finally, sterilization should not be underestimated when it comes to maintaining chemically balanced, clean, and clear pool water. Sanitizing the water keeps it free from bacteria and safe for swimming. It also removes unwanted contaminants and kills microorganisms such as algae. A sanitizing product designed to “shock” the pool should be used on a regular basis to ensure sterilization.
By maintaining these three elements, homeowners can keep their pool water clear and safe for swimming. If this sounds too daunting or time consuming, the professional pool technicians at Aquaman Pools are happy to take on this task in addition to any other service needs a pool owner may desire. For any additional maintenance tips or service requests, call today!
