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.
Pool winterization involves balancing chemicals, protecting equipment, and proper closing procedures. The process varies by climate zone but typically includes shocking, lowering water levels, and winterizing plumbing to prevent freeze damage.
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.
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.
Pool salt cells use electrolysis to convert dissolved salt (sodium chloride) into chlorine gas and sodium hydroxide. The chlorine sanitizes your pool while the sodium hydroxide raises pH, creating a continuous chlorination cycle.
It appears you may have asked about airline miles by mistake when looking for pool maintenance help. This comprehensive guide covers common pool issues and maintenance procedures to get your pool water crystal clear and properly balanced.
Yes, salt water pools do freeze, but at slightly lower temperatures than fresh water (around 28-32°F vs 32°F). The salt content provides minimal freeze protection, so proper winterization is still essential.
Most salt water pool cells can be rebuilt by replacing the titanium plates and internal hardware, typically costing 50-70% less than a new cell. However, rebuilding is only worthwhile if the cell housing is intact and you have technical skills.
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 still require chemicals for proper water balance, including pH adjusters, stabilizer, and calcium hardness increasers. The salt chlorine generator only produces chlorine, not other essential chemicals needed for safe swimming water.
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.
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.
You should not add salt to a regular chlorine pool without a saltwater system. Salt will not provide sanitization and can damage pool equipment while creating water balance issues.
