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.
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.
Salt water pools use electrolysis to generate chlorine from dissolved salt, requiring proper water chemistry balance including pH, alkalinity, and CYA levels. They still need regular maintenance and chemical adjustments despite producing their own chlorine.
Yes, green pool water can make you sick with infections, gastrointestinal illness, and respiratory problems. The algae indicates dangerous bacteria and parasites are present, making swimming unsafe until properly treated.
Pool algae can cause skin rashes, irritation, and other health issues through direct contact or by creating conditions that harbor harmful bacteria. The key is eliminating algae through proper SLAM treatment and maintaining balanced water chemistry.
Pool algae itself cannot kill you, but certain types like blue-green algae can cause serious illness, and algae creates slippery, dangerous swimming conditions that increase drowning risk.
Yes, pool chemicals can cause rashes through unbalanced water chemistry, excessive chlorine exposure, or pH imbalances. The key is maintaining proper chemical balance and testing regularly to prevent skin irritation.
Pool chlorine can make you sick when levels are too high (causing irritation) or too low (allowing harmful bacteria). Proper chlorine levels of 1-4 ppm based on your CYA level prevent illness.
Pool chlorine does not make your skin darker. The sun exposure you get while swimming in the pool causes tanning, not the chlorine itself. Chlorine can actually make skin more sensitive to UV rays.
Cloudy pool water can be dangerous to your health as it often indicates the presence of harmful bacteria, parasites, and contaminants. Never swim in cloudy water - clear it first using proper shock treatment.
Salt water pools are typically healthier than traditional chlorine pools and rarely cause illness when properly maintained. However, poor water chemistry or contamination can lead to skin irritation, respiratory issues, or infections.
Weekly pool maintenance involves testing and balancing water chemistry (pH 7.4-7.6, proper chlorine levels), cleaning skimmers and equipment, brushing walls, and vacuuming debris. Consistent weekly care prevents expensive repairs and keeps your pool safe for swimming year-round.
Hot tub water care requires maintaining proper pH (7.4-7.6), alkalinity (80-120 ppm), and sanitizer levels while following regular testing and chemical adjustment schedules. Higher temperatures and smaller water volumes make spas more sensitive to chemical imbalances than pools.
No, you should not swim in a green pool as it contains harmful bacteria, algae, and potentially dangerous microorganisms that can cause serious health issues including skin infections, eye irritation, and gastrointestinal problems.
