It may seem trivial, but pool chemicals serve as the backbone for a healthy pool. Pool chemicals keep your backyard oasis clean and functional all season long; they do tons of work that nobody sees and receives little credit for it. From sanitizers to pH balancers, and algaecides to shock treatments, these unsung heroes work tirelessly to ensure your pool remains a haven of health and tranquility.
Join Mufson Pools as we explore the essential role these chemical warriors play in maintaining a pristine pool environment, allowing you to dive in with confidence and embrace the true joy of swimming.
Dive into Clearer Waters: Unveiling the Power of Pool Sanitizers
Two commonly used pool sanitizers should stay on your radar: chlorine and bromine. For sanitation purposes, these two show the best results; but do NOT make the mistake of combining the two chemicals. Here are some factors to consider when deciding between the two chemicals:
Chlorine
As a powerful disinfectant, chlorine effectively eliminates harmful bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can pose health risks to swimmers. Its ability to oxidize and break down organic matter helps maintain crystal-clear waters and prevent the formation of algae. Chlorine’s versatility and reliability make it the most commonly used sanitizer in pools worldwide, providing a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for all.
Bromine
With similar versatility to chlorine, bromine works diligently to destroy bacteria, viruses, and algae, ensuring a safe and hygienic swimming environment. Though, unlike chlorine, bromine is slower-acting but remains active for longer periods, making it an excellent choice for pools with infrequent use or those that are continuously heated. With its reliable sanitizing capabilities and ability to withstand challenging conditions, bromine stands as a trustworthy ally in maintaining clean and inviting pool waters, allowing you to dive in with peace of mind.
Which Pool Sanitizer Will You Choose?
If you decide to switch chemicals, never combine the two in any way, shape, or form. Remember to also store the pool chemicals in separate places since the fumes can become combustible. Also, do not use the same feeder for each chemical even if cleaned thoroughly. Play it safe and stay cautious when switching up pool chemicals.
The pH Puzzle: Unveiling the Secrets of Pool Water Balance
Maintaining a healthy pH is pivotal to an enjoyable swimming experience. pH level measures the acidity and base of the water, where high pH means the water is basic and a low pH means the water is acidic. Both will irritate parts of the body, so be sure to keep your water’s pH level between 7.2 and 7.8. In comes sodium carbonate, sodium bisulfate, calcium chloride, and alkalinity increaser and decreaser to ensure pH balance.
- Sodium Carbonate: Also known as soda ash, sodium carbonate raises the pH level of acidic water, helping to prevent corrosion and eye irritation.
- Sodium Bisulfate: Contrary to sodium carbonate, sodium bisulfate, also commonly referred to as dry acid, lowers the pH level when the water becomes too alkaline, ensuring the effectiveness of sanitizers and preventing scaling issues.
- Calcium Chloride: This pH balancer helps to increase calcium hardness, contributing to water balance and preventing erosion of pool surfaces.
- Alkalinity Increaser/Decreaser: This chemical helps regulate the total alkalinity levels, providing stability to pH fluctuations.
With these powerful tools in your arsenal, achieving the perfect pH balance becomes a breeze, allowing you to enjoy a refreshing and harmonious pool environment.
Stay Ahead of the Algae Game: Insight into Algaecides
The green monster pool owners have nightmares about… algae. Chlorine is not always the most effective way to get rid of algae, though it does help to prevent it from growing. Instead, opt for Algaecides to control and kill all algae that may reside in your pool. The two main types of algaecides are copper-based and non-metallic-based.
Copper-Based Algaecides
Copper-based algaecides utilize copper ions to inhibit and eliminate algae growth. Copper acts as a potent agent, preventing the formation and development of algae. These algaecides are effective against a wide range of algae species and are known for their long-lasting effects. Copper-based algaecides are highly effective, however, be careful using copper-based products because they have been known to stain the walls of the pool.
Non-Metallic Polymers
Non-metallic polymer algaecides, on the other hand, work by disrupting the cellular structure of algae, inhibiting their growth, and causing them to die off. Non-metallic polymer algaecides are typically non-staining and non-foaming, making them easier to use and maintain.
Other Common Algaecides
Borate, metallic, bromine salt, and polyquat algaecides are additional types of algaecides used in swimming pools to combat and prevent algae growth. Borate algaecides, such as sodium borate, work by creating an inhospitable environment for algae, hindering their ability to thrive. Metallic algaecides, like copper-based algaecides, utilize metal ions (such as silver or zinc) to disrupt algae growth and reproduction.
Again, use caution with this form of algaecide because it can cause unattractive stains. Bromine salt algaecides, often used in bromine-treated pools, provide an additional layer of protection against algae, working in conjunction with bromine, the primary sanitizer. Polyquat algaecides are non-metallic and are known for their effectiveness against various types of algae, including stubborn black algae. These algaecides help prevent algae colonization, keeping the pool water clear and inviting. Incorporating these algaecides into pool maintenance routines can bolster the overall effectiveness of algae control, ensuring a beautiful and algae-free swimming environment.
How Shock Treatments Revitalize Your Pool
Pool shock is an “electrifying” way of oxidizing your pool. Shock treatment has nothing to do with electricity thankfully and everything to do with chlorine. When chlorine kills bacteria in your pool, it leaves behind chloramine, which lingers until broken down. That is where shock treatment comes into play. The most common shock treatments are non-chlorine oxidizers, calcium-hypochlorite, lithium hypochlorite, and sodium dichlor.
- Non-Chlorine Oxidizers: These are typically based on compounds like potassium peroxymonosulfate and are chlorine-free options that help eliminate organic contaminants in the water without increasing chlorine levels.
- Calcium Hypochlorite: A fast-acting shock treatment that is a popular choice due to its high chlorine content. It effectively oxidizes and sanitizes pool water, quickly eliminating bacteria and algae.
- Lithium Hypochlorite: Similarly, to calcium hypochlorite, lithium hypochlorite serves as a potent shock treatment that dissolves rapidly and does not increase the pool’s pH levels.
- Sodium Dichlor: This shock treatment contains stabilized chlorine, providing a reliable shock treatment option that releases chlorine gradually, offering sustained sanitation.
These shock treatments assist in rapidly restoring water clarity, eliminating unpleasant odors, and maintaining proper sanitation levels in the pool, ensuring a clean and inviting swimming experience.
Upgrade Your Pool Chemical Arsenal Today!
By familiarizing yourself with the essential chemicals, their roles, and the principles of water balance, you can take control of your pool’s maintenance and ensure its longevity. Remember to test your water regularly, follow proper dosage guidelines, and stay vigilant in addressing any imbalances promptly. With a little knowledge and dedication, you can transform your pool into a sparkling oasis that provides endless fun and relaxation for you, your family, and your friends. So, dive in, armed with this newfound understanding, and let the magic of pool chemicals take your swimming experience to new heights.
For more information regarding pool maintenance and ways to make your backyard paradise a reality, contact the pool experts at Mufson Pool by dialing (201) 768-6844 today!
