A clear and safe pool requires consistent testing and attention
Testing ensures that the water is clean and safe, but also prevents damage to your pool and equipment.
There are a number of chemicals that can be tested and in order for the pool to be clear, clean and well-balanced, levels should generally stay within recommended ranges.
Testing your pool water to maintain the right chemical balance isn’t that complicated, however, it does require consistent attention. Pool water should be tested at least once a week, and this will enable you to become familiar with your pool’s water balance trends.
If you are still unfamiliar with your pool’s chemistry trends, the pool is getting a lot of use, the weather is unusually hot, your pool looks cloudy, or if you have had recent storms, you may need to test more frequently (2-3 times per week or more).
pH and free available chlorine levels should be tested more often, perhaps daily, until you come to a good understanding of how they fluctuate.
Other readings for calcium hardness, total alkalinity, cyanuric acid, metals, phosphates, and total dissolved solids, tend to move more slowly and can be tested weekly or even monthly in some cases.
For saltwater pool owners, it is also critical to test salinity levels once per week. The ideal range is 3000-3300 ppm. It is wise to test circulated water. Therefore, it is good to use the pool pump’s high setting for at least an hour prior to taking a sample.
Your water should be taken from at least 12” below the surface and away from returns or chemical dispensers. Once you have your test results, keep track of them. You can use a daily planner, dedicated pool calendar, or enter them into your favorite pool care app.
Recording water balance trends will help you anticipate future changes in water chemistry, making it easier to maintain water balance over time. Contact us at 215-348-3212 or find us online at antonpools.com.