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.
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.
Yes, most pool owners need pH Up and pH Down chemicals to maintain the ideal pH range of 7.4-7.6, but you may not need both products depending on your water's natural tendencies.
Most Texas pools operate 8-10 months per year (March through November) due to the warm climate. With proper heating systems, many pools can stay open year-round in most Texas regions.
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.
Above ground pool liners typically last 6-10 years, with premium vinyl liners potentially lasting up to 15 years. Proper water chemistry, UV protection, and maintenance significantly extend liner life.
Yes, salt pools absolutely need stabilizer (cyanuric acid) to protect the chlorine generated by your salt water generator from UV degradation. Target 70-80ppm for optimal protection and chlorine efficiency.
No, you should not use pool chlorine tablets in your toilet. Pool tablets contain trichlor which is too concentrated for toilets and can damage plumbing, create toxic gases, and pose serious health risks.
No, never use pool chlorine tablets in your well water system. Pool tablets contain trichlor and stabilizer that make water unsafe for drinking and can damage plumbing systems.
To raise pool stabilizer levels, add cyanuric acid at 1.3 pounds per 10,000 gallons to increase CYA by 10 ppm. Use granular stabilizer in a sock method or liquid stabilizer for faster results.
Yes, pools need CYA (cyanuric acid) to protect chlorine from UV degradation. Target 30-50ppm for regular pools and 70-80ppm for salt water generators.
Pool chlorine can burn your skin, especially in concentrated form or when pool chemistry is imbalanced. Proper handling of chemicals and maintaining correct chlorine levels (1-3 ppm) prevents most skin irritation and burns.
Yes, you may need to shock your pool in winter, but less frequently than summer. Winter shocking depends on your pool type (open vs closed), water temperature, and current chlorine levels.
Yes, you can leave an above ground pool up all year, but it requires proper winterization including chemical balancing, equipment protection, and regular maintenance to prevent freeze damage and extend pool life.
Above ground pool liners typically last 6-10 years, with thicker mil liners lasting longer. Proper water chemistry, UV protection, and careful maintenance can extend liner life significantly.
