Swimming in a chlorinated pool is one of the summer’s greatest pleasures. However, improper chemical maintenance can quickly turn your swimming oasis into a bacteria- and algae-filled nightmare. We’ll give you a basic overview of pool chemicals and how to maintain pH balance as well as how to skim leaves and other debris from the surface of the water to keep your pool clean and clear.
1. Check the pH
pH is one of the most important markers for pool maintenance and should be tested daily. The pH level affects how sanitizer performs in your pool. A chlorine tablet, for example, won’t kill bacteria if the pH levels are low or high. You can adjust pH levels by adding acid or base during a pool service. If you are unsure what you need, purchase a pH up or pH down product. Never add a base to already acidic pool water, and avoid adding acid to high alkalinity levels.
2. Test the Alkalinity
Keeping your pool water balanced is essential for keeping it free of bacteria and algae. Testing your alkalinity is simple and can be done with an alkalinity increaser or decreaser product. An imbalance will upset the entire pool chemistry and cause problems if total alkalinity is too high.
3. Evaluate Calcium Hardness
Hard water can lead to cloudy water and a need for more chlorine. Test your calcium hardness daily and add chlorine or a calcium increaser product to increase the levels if necessary. However, note that if calcium levels get too high, your pool could become overly saturated with calcium and appear cloudy.
4. Check the Chlorine Levels
Chlorine levels are essential for your pool care. Whether using chlorine tablets or sodium hypochlorite bleach, keep tabs on how much is in the pool daily. If you don’t, bacteria and algae can form quickly.
5. Shock the Pool
Shock is essentially super-chlorination. It will kill bacteria and algae quickly if you need to disinfect your pool soon due to illness or accidental contamination.
Using an oxidizing shock product will help your pool surface become crystal clear. You should always pre-mix your product in a bucket before pouring it into the pool and avoid inhaling the fumes given off by the shock.
Please remember that many pool chemicals are hazardous and should be handled carefully. Always read the product labels before using them.
6. Remove Debris
Leaves, twigs, and other debris often fall into pool water, either coming to rest on top of the water or sinking to the bottom of the pool. It’s essential to remove debris as often as possible to keep pools safe and healthy for swimmers and to keep pool systems operating smoothly.
Conclusion
Pool care doesn’t have to be difficult, especially with the products mentioned above and professional pool service from experts in Bonita Springs and Estero. Pool maintenance is essential for the health of your pool and to keep it in working order. As you can see, with a few essential tools and some hard work, your swimming oasis can shine all summer long.
