The intense sunshine and high temperatures in Texas mean that our swimming pools get a lot of use. These three factors alone can spell disaster for the water quality. If you’re facing a continuous battle against the harsh Texas weather and your pool’s pH levels, here are some helpful chemical balancing tips to keep in mind:
Prioritize Frequent Chlorine Level Monitoring
It doesn’t take long for UV rays and high heat levels to degrade the chlorine in your pool. The less frequently you monitor the chlorine levels, the harder it can be to maintain them.
Aim for 2-4 ppm and use a type of stabilized chlorine to minimize chlorine loss. You may also like to supplement the chlorine with cyanuric acid to protect it from UV rays.
Adjust the pH Levels Regularly
No matter how hard we try to maintain consistent pH levels in our swimming pools, the harsh Texas sun simply won’t let us! Warm water can cause pH levels to rise, especially during the summer.
Monitor the pH levels and adjust as required. Aim for 7.4 to 7.6, and use muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate when necessary to lower the pH. Get into the habit of testing at least two or three times a week during the summer.
Use the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) Calculation
Many pool technicians use the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) to calculate the chemical balance of water. LSI is calculated using pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, temperature, and total dissolved solids (TDS). The calculation indicates whether water is balanced, corrosive, or scale-forming.
To use the LSI:
- Measure water chemistry – get readings for pH, temperature, TDS, calcium hardness, and alkalinity
- Use a pool testing LSI calculator and input the measurements to calculate the LSI
- Adjust the water chemistry as necessary to bring the LSI within the desired range. Typically between -0.30 and +0.30.
Keep the Alkalinity Levels Stable
Stable alkalinity levels can go a long way toward maintaining stable pH levels. If alkaline levels are too low, it can result in pH fluctuations that cause discomfort and can even damage pool surfaces. If they are too high, making pH adjustments can be significantly more challenging.
You can use sodium bicarbonate to raise total alkalinity (TA) or muriatic acid or a similar pH reducer to lower it. Add chemicals in small increments and retest after each addition to ensure you’ve reached the desired level. Always adjust the alkalinity before correcting pH levels.
Correct Calcium Concentration
Many parts of Texas have hard water. In fact, Texas ranks sixth in the nation for average water hardness. This means that monitoring calcium levels in your pool can be crucial.
The hard water combined with evaporation means that calcium concentration can be common. If the levels become too high, consult your local pool expert to determine if partial draining and refilling is a suitable fix. You can also prevent scaling with a sequestrant if the calcium levels are too high.
Eliminate Algae
No one wants to get into their swimming pool only to feel gross slime beneath their feet! Unfortunately, Texas has the perfect environment for algae growth: heat and sunlight.
The good news is that you can play an active part in keeping algae away. Maintain proper chlorine levels and make it a habit to brush the pool walls and floors every week. You can also use algaecide products if algae growth is an ongoing issue.
Test Water Frequently
You can’t hope to know what you need to maintain the crystal-clear water in your swimming pool unless you test it. Use a digital tester, liquid test kit, or test strips at least two or three times per week. If you’re using your pool more frequently, especially in extreme heat, consider testing it daily.
Leave Chemical Balancing to the Experts at Safari Pool Service
Enjoy fresh, clear water in your swimming pool without all the hard work by entrusting chemical balancing to our experienced team. Our pool technicians boast years of experience in pool cleaning and maintenance services, ensuring pool ownership is a joy rather than a chore. Inquire about our customized service plans today!
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