Pool Chemistry: How to Extend Your Pool’s Life

Summer is here! It means that you’ll be spending long afternoons by the pool and hosting cookouts at night. 

But before you jump into the pool, understand the pool chemistry. It’ll extend your pool’s life and save you time and money in the long run.

This blog discusses how you can do that. 

Swimming Pool Chemistry

It refers to the chemical balance in your pool. Maintaining the right balance is of utmost importance for your health and the integrity of the pool. It keeps your pool clean, protects it from discoloration, and averts damage to your equipment. 

Examine the Site

Before testing for a chemical imbalance, you need to inspect the site. It’ll help you find any potential damage that may have prevented adequate circulationin the water. Ensure that you remove debris from all surrounding areas (deck and patio) and vacuum them from the water surface and the pool.

Check for metal stains and algae at the bottom of your pool. If your pool surface has ripples preventing you from looking, squirt some dishwashing liquid. It’ll calm the surface and enable you to have a good look. 

The pool must be smooth to touch. Therefore, you must inspect the pool for discoloration, cracks, and roughness. You’ll need a digital camera and sanding pads for it. If you don’t have them, call the experts. They’ll take care of it. 

Test the Water Source

To begin testing the pool water, start with the source. It’ll be easier and effective. Once you have the source water sample, have it checked. Make sure that you’re aware of your pool’s volume. Once the test results are out, you’ll need to multiply the results with that volume to figure out the exact chemical composition to begin treating it. 

Test the Water

When testing the water, get it checked for pH and salt levels, and calcium hardness. Your local pool retailer will test it for you. For testing, fill up a bottle from 18-20 inches below the water surface. It’ll give you a more accurate sample. 

To check if your pool water can form a chemical scale, use the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI). For this index, you need the following measurements:

·         pH (ideal range is 7.2-7.6)

·         Alkalinity (120-150 parts per million)

·         Total hardness (200-250 parts per million of scale)

Final Thoughts

To prolong your pool’s life, and maintain ideal swimming conditions, test the water twice a week.

Are you looking to prolong your pool’s life? Contact Perfect Pools. We are one of the leading pool design, renovation, and cleaning company in Sterling, Virginia. Our expert pool contractors will take care of your pool and provide you with a service that speaks professionalism.