WATER CHEMISTRY

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There are 4 components that make up pool water chemistry; PH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness and T.D.S. (Total Dissolved solids).

• Potential Hydrogen (PH) is the relative acidity or base of your pool's water. For example: low PH would be acidic and high PH would be base. The human tear has a PH value of 7 and is classified as neutral. The ideal PH value for your San Juan Pool is 7.2 to 7.4. PH levels should be checked bi-weekly.
• Total Alkalinity (T.A.) is composed of the minerals in your pool water that buffer PH and is measured in parts per million (1 P.P.M.= 1 part per million parts of water). If the mineral levels are too high, then the PH will constantly drift up. If the mineral levels are too low, the PH will drift down or fluctuate. The proper total alkalinity level for your fiberglass pool is 70 to 80 P.P.M. and should be checked weekly.
• Calcium Hardness (C.H.) is the relative hardness of your pool water, and is measured in P.P.M. If the water is too soft, it will be aggressive and erode pool equipment such as heaters, ladders and even the gel coat finish. If the water is too hard, deposits will form on the pool equipment and finish. 300 to 350 P.P.M. is the proper hardness for your fiberglass pool and should be checked monthly.
• Total Dissolved Solids (T.D.S.) are the sum total of all materials in solution in your pool water, and is measured in P.P.M. T.D.S. should be checked annually by a pool store professional or service company. T.D.S. above 1,500 P.P.M. reduces sanitizer effectiveness and causes the water to become abrasive. Note: During periods of heavy rain or high swimmer loads, all of the above water chemistry valves, except T.D.S. should be checked more frequently.

When tests show all the above water chemistry items to be within the recommended ranges, it is in balance. Balanced water will be clean, clear, blue and sparkles. Eye and skin irritation will be reduced, and pool equipment and gel coat surface life will be extended. Balanced water improves sanitation effectiveness and reduces or eliminates the necessity of adding costly water chemistry supplements. Prolonged improper water chemistry and high sanitizer levels can lead to pool equipment and gel coat damage which may not be covered by your San Juan warranty.

START UP WATER CHEMISTRY SUMMARY

• Step 1. Adjust PH level to 7.4 - 7.6 by using testing kit supplied with your pool.
• Step 2. Add Chlorine Stabilizer per instructions on label of stabilizer container.
• Step 3. Super chlorinate with chlorine per instructions on label of chlorine container.
• Step 4. Turn on your pump which will initiate filtration. Run the pump continuously for 24 hours.
• Step 5. Clean your filter medium by hosing off your cartridges or backwashing. (See filter instructions.)
• Repeat steps 3 and 4 until water is clear.

Joe Ordini suggests the use of salt generators, ozonators, or EZ Pool, available at Ordini's Pools & Spas, as alternatives to harsh chlorines.