lower total alkalinity and add baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to raise total alkalinity. Be sure to read and follow the respective manufacturer’s instructions.
Stabilizer (cyanuric acid) is necessary in most outdoor pools to maintain appropriate levels of chlorine. Chlorine stabilizer helps give an appropriate residual chlorine reading of the pool water. Without stabilizer, UV radiation from the sun destroys most chlorine within 2 hours, but excessive amounts of stabilizer can decrease the effectiveness of chlorine. Chlorine stabilizer should be maintained at
Nitrates and Phosphates, generally associated with fertilizer thrown on nearby grass, can put very high demands on chlorine; most often nitrates and phosphates will bring the chlorine level down to zero (0). You can have your water tested for nitrates and phosphates by the local pool professional. No nitrates or phosphates should be in your pool. To reduce phosphate levels, use a phosphate remover from your local pool professional. To reduce Nitrate levels, the pool must be partially or fully drained. (Please check with your local pool professional prior to draining the pool)
Metals (certain metals) can cause loss of chlorine and can stain your pool. If a water test reveals the presence of metals, refer to your local pool professional for recommended methods of removal.
New Pool Water in recently filled or newly refinished pools may contain undesirable matter. The ability of the
Calcium Hardness, like pH and alkalinity, affects the water’s tendency to be aggressive or scale forming. Lower levels of calcium hardness improve the chlorine generator’s performance and provide softer silkier water for the swimmers.
Saturation Index determines whether the pool water is balanced, aggressive, or scale forming by comprehensively taking into account all the relevant factors, including pH level, alkalinity level, calcium hardness, and temperature. These factors should be tested periodically then plugged into the worksheet on the following page to verify the proper balance of the pool and make adjustments as necessary.
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