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.
Most pools don't need algaecide if you maintain proper chlorine levels (1-3ppm 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, saltwater pools absolutely need cyanuric acid (stabilizer) to protect the chlorine generated by the salt cell from UV degradation. Maintain CYA levels between 70-80 ppm for optimal protection.
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.
Clear cloudy pool water by testing and balancing your chemistry first, then shock with liquid chlorine to 3x your CYA level and run your filter 24/7 until the water clears completely.
Above ground pools require proper installation on level ground, regular liner maintenance (lasting 6-10 years), and balanced water chemistry with chlorine levels based on CYA. This comprehensive guide covers everything from DIY installation to winterization and troubleshooting common issues.
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.
To raise CYA in your pool, add cyanuric acid (stabilizer) at a rate of 1 pound per 3,000 gallons to increase levels by approximately 30ppm. Add through skimmer or dissolve in bucket first.
Clear cloudy pool water by first testing chemistry levels, then shocking to proper FC/CYA ratio, running filtration 24/7, and using clarifier if needed. Most cases resolve within 24-48 hours with proper chlorine levels.
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.
Yes, saltwater pools absolutely need cyanuric acid (stabilizer) to protect the chlorine generated by your salt cell from being destroyed by UV rays. Target levels should be 70-80ppm for optimal protection.
Cleaning a salt water pool requires testing and balancing chemistry (FC, pH, CYA), maintaining the salt cell, and regular physical cleaning of surfaces and equipment.
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.
No, baking soda cannot be used as pool stabilizer. Baking soda raises total alkalinity and pH, while pool stabilizer (cyanuric acid) protects chlorine from UV degradation - they serve completely different functions.
