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.
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.
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.
Most pools don't need phosphate remover if you maintain proper chlorine levels. Only consider phosphate removal if you have persistent algae problems despite balanced water chemistry and proper sanitizer levels.
Salt water pools are not self-cleaning and require regular maintenance including proper water chemistry balance, algae prevention, and equipment upkeep. The salt water generator only produces chlorine automatically but doesn't eliminate the need for active pool care.
Pool algae forms when microscopic spores enter your water and find ideal conditions: sunlight, nutrients (like phosphates), warm temperatures, and unbalanced water chemistry with insufficient chlorine levels.
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.
Fix cloudy pool water by testing and balancing chemistry first, then shock with liquid chlorine to at least 10-12 ppm, run the filter continuously, and maintain shock level until water clears completely.
To clear cloudy pool water, test and balance your water chemistry, shock to the proper level based on your CYA, run the filter continuously, and maintain shock level until the water clears completely.
Pool alkalinity typically drops due to heavy rainfall, organic contamination, frequent chlorine shocking, and acidic water sources. The most common culprit is dilution from rainwater, which has near-zero alkalinity.
Yes, cloudy pool water can make you sick by harboring harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that cause infections, skin irritation, and respiratory issues. The cloudiness indicates poor water quality and inadequate sanitation.
Pool stabilizer (cyanuric acid/CYA) does slowly decrease over time through dilution from splash-out, backwashing, and fresh water additions. Most pools lose 10-20 ppm per season and require annual replenishment.
Yes, pool pH naturally tends to rise over time due to chlorine sanitization, aeration from equipment, and swimmer activity. Most pools require regular pH adjustment downward using muriatic acid to maintain the ideal 7.4-7.6 range.
Yes, you can pre-dissolve pool stabilizer (cyanuric acid) in warm water before adding it to your pool. This method actually improves distribution and reduces the time needed for complete dissolution.
No, you should not swim in a slightly green pool as it indicates algae growth and potentially harmful bacteria. The green color means your sanitizer levels are insufficient to maintain a safe swimming environment.
