TIPS FOR PRISTINE POOL WATER

It is highly recommended that leaves and debris are kept off mesh pool covers during the winter to prevent nitrogen buildup in the water from debris, which leads to algae blooms and bacterial buildup.

The total dissolved solids need to be kept low to maintain high quality pool water. Meaning leaves should not sit on top of mesh pool covers. Water should be periodically drained out of the pool so that water remains well below the the loop loc (safety) cover. Another key to clear pool water is proper chemical balancing. The most important levels to balance are:

  • Chlorine - prevents bacteria and algae from growing (use an algaecide as a backup to further prevent algae growth). A proper range is between 1-3 ppm.
  • pH - usually needs to be adjusted periodically depenging on rainfall. If unchecked, can damage pool surfaces and finishes. The perfect pH is 7.4, but an ideal range is between 7.2 – 7.6.
  • Cyanuric Acid - stabilizes chlorine levels and should be maintained between 30-50ppm. Levels too high or too low will cause chlorine to be less effective
  • Alkalinity - acts as a pH stabilizer and typically should be between 80 and 120 ppm.
  • Calcium - especially important for gunite pools. Low levels will erode finishes and high levels will create scale buildup. Ideally, the levels should be between 200-400ppm.
  • Salt - importatnt for saltwater chlorine generators
  • Heavy Metals - can be problematic when using well water in a pool. High iron levels can cause brown stains and greenish water without algae. Copper, sometimes used in algaecides can also cause staining. Most stans can be controlled by maintaining the proper pH, or by using metal removing chemicals.
  • Nitrogen and total dissolved solids - If the levels remain in range the water will be consistently sparkling and algae will not have the opportunity to grow.

During the season, a pool should be brushed periodically to prevent wall borne algae to occur and to clean the areas that fitration does not clean up.

The filter should run for at least 8-10 hours per day to help clean up debris and maintain clear water.

PoolsEarl WalkerThe Handy Family, Inc.Pools, Water