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 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).
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.
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.
Clear cloudy pool water by testing and balancing chemicals first, then shock with liquid chlorine to 2-3x your stabilizer level, run the filter 24/7, and backwash frequently until water clears completely.
Yes, you can clean pool filter sand through backwashing, chemical cleaning with muriatic acid or filter cleaners, and eventually replacing it every 2-3 years when cleaning becomes ineffective.
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.
You can shock your pool without running the filter system, but you must ensure proper circulation through brushing and the return jets. The filter doesn't need to be running, but water movement is essential for even chemical distribution.
You don't need to run your pool pump 24/7. Most pools require 8-12 hours of daily operation to achieve proper turnover and filtration, depending on pool size, bather load, and environmental conditions.
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.
You can shock a pool with high pH, but it reduces chlorine effectiveness significantly. Lower pH to 7.2-7.4 first for optimal shock treatment, or use 25-50% more chlorine if shocking immediately is necessary.
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.
