With summer being right around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your pool. Reopening a pool involves a lot of time and knowledge about water. There’s a perfect balance between water and chemicals that make your pool safe to swim in. Since most people don’t know what this perfect mixture is, it’s best to leave maintaining your pool water up to a pool expert. Here’s what they consider when maintaining your pool water. 

Filtration 

The water in your pool is pumped through a filter that removes debris and other contaminants. The size of the pool and the horsepower of the pool pump affect how long the filter needs to be run. Most people are unsure how to calculate the correct size filter needed for their pool, so they turn to pool experts to help them. 

Chlorination

Another thing that keeps your pool water clean is chlorine. Chlorine is a chemical that disinfects the water and helps remove debris. Too much chlorine can alter the pH level of the pool and cause a variety of health problems for swimmers. Not enough chlorine means that your pool water isn’t being disinfected, and that can lead to murky water and health issues for swimmers.

pH Level

The pH level of your water indicates how acidic or alkaline it is. A healthy and clean pool has water with a pH level between 7 and 7.6. Anything above a 7.6 pH level means that your pool water is alkaline, and that can cause skin rashes. A pH level below seven indicates that the pool is too acidic, and that can sting swimmers’ eyes. It’s important to regularly check the pH level of your pool. 

Total Alkalinity (TA)

Total alkalinity and pH are interconnected. Total alkalinity means the sum of all the alkaline chemicals in your water. If it is too low, your pool’s pH level can become unstable. Things like concrete and paint will affect the total alkalinity as they deteriorate over time. 

Calcium Hardness

Calcium hardness refers to the amount of mineral calcium dissolved in your water. High calcium levels will leave a scale or “scum” on surfaces and equipment. Low calcium levels will deteriorate your pool’s surfaces.

Leave it to the Experts at Patriot Pools

Maintaining proper pool water can be difficult, but not for the experts at Patriot Pools! For over 20 years, Patriot Pools has been the go-to pool maintenance company in Maryland. You never have to worry about the safety of your pool water when you choose to have it maintained by our pool experts. Contact us today to see how we can help.