Understanding a Swimming Pool's Chemical Levels

The testing results will offer guidance in fixing many of the problems related to the pool chemistry

A sparkling pool is one of life's great joys. It can be the centerpiece of gatherings with family and friends on long summer days. However, keeping a pool looking great can be challenging.

The key to a pristine and sparkling pool is understanding pool chemistry, properly testing the pool water, and adding the right chemicals. Many property owners find it daunting to handle pool maintenance, but if the truth be known, it's simple – with the right approach.

Testing pool water

Pool test strips are an affordable, fast, and easy water testing option. Dip the strips into the pool water (or dribble some pool water on them). The strip changes color to indicate the water pH (alkaline or acid) and chlorine levels.

The second option is to use a liquid test kit. These kits come with reagent dropper bottles for pool water analysis. This method may be more time-consuming and intricate than the testing strip option but provides far more precise results.

Fixing pool water issues

The testing results will offer guidance in fixing many of the problems related to the pool chemistry. Let's discuss how to fix some of the possible issues:

The pH levels

The first of these potential issues is pH level. Keeping the right pH level is essential for maintaining a crystal-clear pool. Healthy and clear pool water has a pH between 7.2 and 7.6. If the pool water deviates from this ideal, there are options to address the problem.

Widely available treatments (such as Alkalinity Up) will help with low alkalinity. Traditional pool acid will do wonders for pools with high alkalinity, and other products that can help are also available at the local pool shop. If the issues persist, it is best to get some professional advice.

Total alkalinity

The pool water should have a total alkalinity of 100 to 200 ppm (with 120 ppm being ideal). Maintaining the recommended level requires an alkalinity booster. Typically, this will be in the form of sodium bicarbonate or buffer. These chemical products will prevent alkalinity fluctuations and corrosion of the pool equipment and fittings.

Calcium hardness

An overabundance of calcium can cause scale buildup on the pool's surfaces and damage plumbing. Too little calcium will cause the pool water to damage equipment and cause eye and skin irritation. Concrete or tiled pools should have a calcium concentration of 200 to 400 ppm, and vinyl and fiberglass pools should have 100 to 250 ppm. There are widely available treatments that can stabilize the pool's calcium concentration.

Chlorine levels

The right chlorine level will help to keep pool water safe, sanitary, and clear as a mountain stream. The chosen method of testing pool water should reveal a 2 to 3 ppm chlorine level. If it isn't in this range, it's time to take action.

Low chlorine levels require a chlorine sanitizer, which a professional pool service will be able to supply. High chlorine levels mean that a chlorine remover is required. Once again, the local pool shop or a pool maintenance expert can recommend a treatment that meets the pool's unique needs.

There's also the simple option of waiting a few days for the chlorine levels to subside and then testing again to see if the problem resolves.

Keep the pool in top form

Remember, with a bit of planning and research, your pool can be the envy of the neighbors. But if you feel out of your depth, call in the professionals. Pool maintenance can be stressful, and an expert can do the job correctly, leaving you hassle-free.
In Depth Pool Service is a residential pool service for El Dorado Hills and surrounding areas. We provide cleaning, maintenance, and pool equipment repairs. Call us at (916) 633-7729.