Choose Location

How to tell when your pool isn’t properly balanced

In order for a pool to be considered safe to swim in, it must be properly balanced in regard to chemicals. Your local San Diego pool service will ensure that your pool is safe, but here are some tips to help you realize when a pool isn't balanced correctly.

The chemicals
Water balance is the term given to pools that have the correct amount of each chemical required. This refers to the level of total alkalinity, calcium hardness, stabilizer, pH level and chlorine. Total alkalinity should be at 100 parts per million. Calcium hardness should be between 200 and 400 parts per million. Incorrect levels of calcium can cause cloudy water or stains to form on the walls. Additionally, too much calcium can result in plaster erosion. Stabilizer helps retain chlorine as it protects the chemical from the effects of sunlight. If that level is low, your San Diego pool service will have to use more chlorine.

Furthermore, whether your pool has a salt system or uses traditional chlorine, the pH always needs to be between 7.2 and 7.8. If the pH level isn't correct, then the chlorine sanitizer won't work to the best of its abilities, according to Swimmingpool.com. Low levels cause chlorine to dissolve faster and high levels make the chemical inactive.

Identifying a healthy pool
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, chlorine and balanced pH levels result in the killing of germs, but certain recreational water illnesses can still survive. To ensure that your pool is safe, use four senses.

Make sure the water looks clear and blue, rather than green and cloudy. You should be able to see the bottom of the pool. Also, check the water level, as it should always be high enough for water to reach the filters.

You should touch the sides of the pool, such as the tiles or coping. It should feel smooth and clean, not sticky or slippery, as this is a sign of algae or unwanted organisms, reported Healthy Pools. Collect water in your hands and ensure that it doesn't stick in your hands or feel greasy.

Chlorine shouldn't be pungent if working correctly. Chemical odors are caused by high levels of chloramines, which form when chlorine combines with contaminants. Then listen to the equipment as it should all be heard operating before you swim.