DIY Pool Servicing

Why Pool Water Balancing is Essential

Achieving the perfect balance in your pool water isn't just about clarity; it's about creating a safe and enjoyable swimming environment. Properly balanced pool water ensures:

  1. Safety: Balanced water prevents harmful bacteria and algae growth, keeping swimmers healthy.

  2. Comfort: pH-balanced water avoids eye and skin irritation, ensuring a pleasant swim for everyone.

  3. Equipment Longevity: Correct water chemistry protects pool equipment from corrosion and damage.

  4. Cost Efficiency: Maintaining balanced water reduces chemical usage and prolongs the lifespan of pool components.

If you are keen to give this a go yourself, here is our basic guide to help you balance your pool water:

pH Level:

  • Test the pH level using a pool water test kit. The ideal pH range is typically between 7.2 and 7.8.

  • To adjust pH:

    • If pH is too low (below 7.2), add pH increaser (sodium carbonate or soda ash).

    • If pH is too high (above 7.8), add pH reducer (sodium bisulfate or muriatic acid).

Regular Testing and Maintenance:

  • Test your pool water regularly (at least weekly during peak season) and after heavy usage or rain.

  • Adjust chemical levels as needed to keep water balanced

  • Monitor and balance other factors such as total dissolved solids (TDS), phosphates, and cyanuric acid (CYA) as required.

  • Follow manufacturer instructions and safety guidelines when handling pool chemicals.

Calcium Hardness:

  • Calcium hardness refers to the amount of dissolved calcium in the water.

  • Ideal range varies (typically 200-400 ppm for concrete/gunite pools, 175-225 ppm for vinyl/fiberglass pools).

  • Adjust calcium hardness using calcium chloride or draining and diluting with fresh water as needed.

Alkalinity:

  • Alkalinity acts as a buffer to stabilize pH. Test and adjust alkalinity before adjusting pH.

  • Ideal alkalinity range is usually between 80 and 120 ppm (parts per million).

  • To adjust alkalinity:

    • If alkalinity is too low, add an alkalinity increaser (sodium bicarbonate).

    • If alkalinity is too high, you can lower it by adjusting the pH down (using pH reducer).

Sanitizer Levels:

  • Chlorine or bromine levels ensure the water is sanitized and safe for swimming.

  • Use test strips or a kit to measure sanitizer levels regularly.

  • Maintain chlorine levels between 1.0 and 3.0 ppm (parts per million) or bromine levels between 2.0 and 4.0 ppm.

If this all feels a bit daunting…

Our team at Mobile Pool Solutions specialize in pool water testing and balancing services to ensure your pool remains a pristine oasis all season long.

Trust us to keep your water safe, clear, and inviting.