Basic Swimming Pool Maintenance Made Easy
The major problems facing you in keeping a clean and health pool is bacteria and algae. Bacteria are relatively easy to kill with the use of chlorine. Algae, on the other hand, are an on going issue. Algae are a tiny plant that is carried by the wind and can even be carried by the rain. A swimming pool is the perfect environment for algae to grow. When algae are first introduced to a pool you will notice that the sides and bottom will feel slimy. If left untreated the algae will take on a green color, in the more advanced stages you will see the algae take on a brownish color and have a strong fishy smell.
The conditions that allow algae growth is warm temperatures and UV (ultra violet) light. Unless you have an indoor pool, your pool is in direct sunlight, which provides for the perfect algae growth conditions.
The defense against algae is chlorine and diligence. The pool conditions that provide the perfect algae growing grounds are also what makes maintaining adequate residual chlorine levels more difficult. The optimum levels of chlorine that a pool should maintain is 0.3 to 0.6 ppm (parts per million). Chlorine consumption is affected by a number of factors. UV light and higher water temperatures, along with perspiration and bacteria will increase the rate that chlorine is consumed. Chlorine levels should be tested frequently when the sunlight and temperatures are higher, also when there is a higher volume of swimmers.
Should algae growth get a foothold, the best course of action is to “shock” the pool. This is done by adding from 5 to 10 times the amount of chlorine that would be used to maintain a healthy pool. Allow the chlorine levels to return to normal before swimming. When adjusting chlorine in order to control algae growth, Ph levels will be affected. Test Ph levels often. Ph is the measure of acidity or alkalinity of pool water. When water has a Ph of 0-7 it is considered acidic. Water that has a low Ph will cause damage to pool filter, pipes and other metal fixtures. Water that is alkaline, with a Ph of 7-14 will cause skin, eye, and mucus membrane irritation. The best Ph level to maintain is between 7.2 and 7.8. This is also the optimum Ph range for residual chlorine retention.
Remember, when maintaining a pool that you are using chemicals. Most pool chemicals are stable and will last for long periods when properly stored. Calcium Hypochlorite, either in tablet or granular form are concentrated and can be dangerous when not handled carefully. Do not mix them with anything but water! Always store them away from heat, acid, or any combustible material. Always us plastic, glass, china, or enamelware when measuring. Measure all chemicals separately, using clean,dry tools, Keep the chemicals off of plant life, they can be harmful to shrubs and grass. Hands should be clean and dry when adding chemicals to the pool. Do Not use gloves, and wash hands thoroughly after adding chemicals. Keep all pool chemicals away from your eyes. Store all chemicals in the original containers and away from children. Most importantly, read all labels and follow all instructions.