Pool water chemistry involves maintaining proper levels of chlorine (1-3ppm based on CYA), pH (7.4-7.6), alkalinity (60-120ppm), and calcium hardness (250-350ppm for plaster). Regular testing with quality kits and proper chemical dosing ensures safe, clear water.
The SLAM method (Shock Level And Maintain) clears green pools by maintaining high chlorine levels continuously until water clears. Use liquid chlorine to reach shock level based on CYA, maintain 24/7 until overnight chlorine loss is 1ppm or less.
Wait 24-48 hours after shocking your pool before adding algaecide, allowing chlorine levels to drop below 5 ppm. Test your water first to ensure proper chemical balance and maximum algaecide effectiveness.
Pool filters come in three main types: sand filters (low maintenance, 5-7 year lifespan), cartridge filters (easy cleaning, 1-2 year replacement), and DE filters (finest filtration, requires backwashing every 4-6 weeks).
Pool opening involves removing winter covers, inspecting equipment, reconnecting plumbing, and balancing water chemistry. Start with equipment inspection, fill and reconnect systems, then shock and balance chemicals before swimming.
Pool winterization involves balancing chemicals, protecting equipment, and proper closing procedures. The process varies by climate zone but typically includes shocking, lowering water levels, and winterizing plumbing to prevent freeze damage.
Most pools don't need algaecide if you maintain proper chlorine levels (2-5ppm FC) and adequate CYA (30-50ppm). Algaecide is mainly useful for prevention during high-risk periods or as backup insurance, not for treating active algae blooms.
Whether you need to winterize your pool depends on your climate zone. Areas with freezing temperatures require full winterization, while warmer regions need only reduced maintenance and chemical adjustments.
Pool chemical shelf life varies dramatically: liquid chlorine lasts 2-5 years, granular chlorine 2-3 years, while pH adjusters and alkalinity increasers can last indefinitely when stored properly.
A properly winterized pool can stay closed for 6-8 months safely, while emergency closures should be limited to 2-4 weeks maximum. Beyond these timeframes, water chemistry deterioration and equipment damage risks increase significantly.
You can vacuum your pool after adding most chemicals, but timing matters. Wait 15-30 minutes for liquid chemicals to circulate, and 2-4 hours for granular chemicals to fully dissolve before vacuuming.
Salt water pools still require chemicals for proper water balance, including pH adjusters, stabilizer, and calcium hardness increasers. The salt chlorine generator only produces chlorine, not other essential chemicals needed for safe swimming water.
Most pools don't need phosphate remover if you maintain proper chlorine levels. Only consider phosphate removal if you have persistent algae problems despite balanced water chemistry and proper sanitizer levels.
Yes, you should shock your pool before closing it for winter, but timing is crucial. Shock 24-48 hours before adding winterizing chemicals to ensure proper sanitization without chemical conflicts.
Yes, you can shock your pool after adding algaecide, but timing matters. Wait at least 2-4 hours between applications and always add algaecide first, then shock.
