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.
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).
To fix low stabilizer, add cyanuric acid at 1 pound per 10,000 gallons to raise CYA by 10ppm. For high levels over 80ppm, partially drain and refill your pool, as there's no chemical way to lower stabilizer.
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.
Pool pumps require regular maintenance and troubleshooting to operate efficiently. Common issues include low water flow, unusual noises, and electrical problems that can often be resolved with proper diagnosis and maintenance.
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.
Yes, you can use pool pH increaser in your spa since both use sodium carbonate (soda ash) as the active ingredient. However, you'll need to adjust dosing for your spa's smaller volume and retest after 30 minutes.
To raise pool pH, add sodium carbonate (soda ash) for quick increases or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) for gradual increases. Test first, calculate dosage based on pool size, and add chemicals slowly with circulation running.
Add sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to increase pool alkalinity - use 1.5 lbs per 10,000 gallons to raise alkalinity by 10 ppm. Test first, add slowly, and retest after 6 hours.
You don't necessarily need to shock your pool weekly. Shocking frequency depends on usage, weather conditions, and your free chlorine levels. Most well-maintained pools need shocking every 2-3 weeks or when combined chlorine exceeds 0.5 ppm.
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 two days in a row if your chlorine levels haven't reached the proper shock level or if you're treating algae. However, test your water first to avoid over-chlorination.
Pool liner patches typically last 2-5 years with proper installation and quality materials. Underwater patches generally last longer than above-water patches due to UV protection from the water.
Yes, you absolutely need proper alkalinity in your pool water. Alkalinity acts as a pH buffer, preventing rapid pH swings and maintaining water balance for swimmer comfort and equipment protection.
