Pool Chemical Essentials

Maintaining a sparkling blue-green swimming pool is a constant job for many. Scrubbing, scooping, and adding the right pool chemicals is critical for keeping the water clean and inviting. For many pool owners, this constant upkeep can be taxing. But it doesn’t necessarily need to be. 

The importance of pool chemicals for cleaning and maintenance cannot be overstated. Too much, not enough, or the wrong type of pool chemicals can significantly change the color, odor, and clarity of your water. The right usage of the chemicals, on the other hand, can make the job so much easier. 

So, how do you know if you’re using the right pool chemicals? We have compiled a comprehensive overview to describe how pool chemicals are beneficial for pool cleaning. Whether in-ground, above ground, covered or exposed, this article will serve to clear up your decisions, just like your pool water. 

Why Are Pool Chemicals Important? 

When cleaning and maintaining a pool, chlorine is your best bet. Chlorine serves to kill any bacteria, algae, and microorganisms in your pool water. Chlorine helps maintain a sanitary pool. 

Bacteria are everywhere and can quickly take advantage of an environment, such as a pool. An abundance of bacteria can cloud the water and make swimming potentially dangerous. 

Algae can also build up in an untreated pool. This organic growth will also discolor the water and can attach itself to the walls of the pool. 

Fortunately, chlorine is a powerful chemical which goes to work right away and is effective in cleaning and maintaining your pool. Chlorine wipes out bacteria, microorganisms, and algae. Plus, it helps oxidize the water, which removes dirt and other water impurities. 

What is pH balance?

The pH of a substance describes the amount of acid or base it contains. In pool maintenance, pH levels are necessary to manage for water clarity and the effectiveness of your chlorine. If the water is too base or alkaline, the chlorine may not work completely. Compromised chlorine may cause heightened bacteria and microorganism levels. A high pH level can lead to cloudy water, rashes or skin sensitivity, eye redness, and even advanced scaling build-up of your pool equipment. 

Conversely, a pH level that is too low or acidic can cause problems with the metal in your pool, like on light fixtures, drains, or rails and ladders. High acidity can also etch the pool tile and Marcite(pool plaster) coating, resulting in replacement or refinishing, which costs you more money. 

High acidic levels also affect the skin and eyes of swimmers. The acidic water can aggravate eyes, nasal passages, sensitive skin, and even the coloration of hair and clothing. 

What is needed for “starting” a pool?

If you have just recently completed a pool install or are re-filling an existing pool with new water, you’ll need to get the chemical mixture of pool water correct for proper pool maintenance. 

Because the surface material of the pool or the water you’re adding can have various levels of bacteria and microorganisms already present, you’ll need to start your pool by treating and monitoring your pool water. The proper amount of chlorine and the pH balance of your pool are necessary to make it safe for swimming and overall usage. 
Start your pool with…

-Granular Chlorine Shock
-Chlorine Tablets
-pH Test Strips and Testing Kit
-pH Increaser/Decreaser
-Alkalinity and/or Calcium Increaser
-Stain and Scale preventative
-Cyanuric Acid for pH Stabilization
-Algaecide and Clarifiers(as needed)

What other chemicals are used in pool maintenance? 

Other than chlorine, bromine is one of the beneficial chemicals for pool cleaning arsenal. The chemical bromine is not as strong as chlorine. Therefore, it can be used more frequently to treat pool water. Bleaching of clothing and skin irritation can be lessened with the use of bromine. 

Algaecides can also be used for hard to treat pools. A pool in a shady location may generate more algae growth. A more regulated algae treatment may be necessary to keep the slick green growth out. 

Phosphate removers can be a regular part of your pool maintenance program. Especially for areas with hard water or high phosphate levels, phosphate removers may be necessary. Phosphate build-up can be unsightly and may cause advanced algae growth.  

Adding baking soda to your water can also prove an effective method for keeping your pool swimmer friendly. Baking soda can help to manage the pH levels of your pool, reduce algae growth, and keep advanced scaling from taking over. 

By choosing the right set of chemicals and additives, your pool can remain the jewel of your home. Keep a log of when and how much pool chemicals you add and you will be able to maximize your time in the sun without breaking the bank.