Pool Chemicals 101

Owning a pool can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors and stay cool on hot days. However, it's important to know how to properly maintain your pool to keep it safe and enjoyable for everyone. This includes using the right pool chemicals.

There are a variety of different pool chemicals available, each with its own purpose. Some of the most common pool chemicals include:

• Chlorine: Chlorine is the most common pool sanitizer. It works by killing bacteria and algae. Chlorine can be added to the pool in liquid, tablet, or granular form.

• Bromine: Bromine is an alternative to chlorine. It is less likely to irritate the skin and eyes than chlorine, and it is also more effective in warm water. Bromine can be added to the pool in liquid or tablet form.

• Algaecide: Algaecide is used to prevent algae from growing in the pool. Algaecide can be added to the pool in liquid or granular form.

• Flocculant: Flocculants are used to bind tiny particles in the pool water together so that they can be filtered out. Flocculants can be added to the pool in liquid form.

• pH Increaser: pH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline the pool water is. The ideal pH for a pool is between 7.2 and 7.8. pH Increaser is used to raise the pH of the pool water.

• pH Decreaser: pH Decreaser is used to lower the pH of the pool water.

It is important to test the pool water regularly and adjust the chemicals as needed. You can use a pool test kit to test the water. The pool test kit will tell you the levels of chlorine, pH, and other chemicals in the water.

Once you know the levels of the chemicals in the water, you can adjust them as needed. For example, if the chlorine level is low, you will need to add more chlorine to the pool. If the pH level is high, you will need to add pH Decreaser to the pool.

It is important to follow the instructions on the pool chemical labels when adding them to the pool. You should also wear gloves and goggles when handling pool chemicals.

By following these tips, you can keep your pool clean and safe for everyone to enjoy.

Additional Information

In addition to the chemicals listed above, there are a few other chemicals that may be used in pools. These include:

• Water Conditioner: Water Conditioner is used to prevent calcium and magnesium deposits from forming in the pool. Calcium and magnesium deposits can make the pool water cloudy and slippery.

• Enzymes: Enzymes are used to break down organic matter in the pool water. Organic matter can come from things like sunscreen, lotion, and dead skin cells.

• Stain and Scale Remover: Stain and Scale Remover is used to remove stains and scale from the pool walls and floor.

It is important to talk to your pool professional at Jeff’s about which chemicals are right for your pool. They can help you create a maintenance schedule that will keep your pool clean and safe for everyone to enjoy.