How do I make my pool water crystal clear?

For those who have a swimming pool in the backyard, this is a fun way to not only stay cool during the summer heat but also entertain family members and friends. On the other hand, maintaining a pool is also hard work. Those who do not keep up with their pool maintenance might be disappointed when they see the quality of their water. Water can go from cloudy to hazy and even green in the matter of a few days. The good news is that there are a few ways to keep the pool water crystal clear.

Maintain Optimum Chemical Levels in The Swimming Pool

There is a common misconception that pool water can never be “crystal clear” because the chlorine will turn it blue. This is simply not the case. Many pools have blue water because they are a reflection of the blue sky.

In order to keep the pool water crystal clear, it is important to maintain the right chemical levels. The two most important levels are the pH and chlorine levels. Chlorine in the pool is used to kill both germs and bacteria. By killing these germs, bacteria will not be able to change the color of the pool. The chlorine levels should be between 1.0 and 3.0 parts per million, often shortened to PPM.

The pool’s pH level is used to measure how acidic or basic the water gets. The ideal pH is between 7.2 and 7.6. If the pool’s pH level is out of balance, not only will it be unsafe but it will also start to change color.

Provide Shock and Algaecide for the Pool Weekly

One of the most commonly overlooked steps of pool maintenance involves shock and algaecide. Those who are wondering why their pools turn green should know that the most common culprit is algae. Even if the chlorine and pH are within safe limits, there is some pool algae that may still grow around the pool, causing the water to turn green.

Shock and algaecide can be used to kill the algae, ensuring the pool water remains crystal clear. Now, these are strong chemicals that need to be used correctly. Therefore, make sure to read the package before using it. The amount required is going to vary with the size of the pool. Try to use shock and algaecide once per week to kill pool algae. Algae can turn the water green, yellow, or hazy.

Clean the Pool Filter

The pool filter plays a critical role in keeping the water clear. Many people believe that the pool filters do not need to be changed as long as they skim the pool regularly. This is simply not true. Yes, it is important to skim the pool regularly; however, the pool filter also has to be cleaned. This is a process known as backwashing.

The job of the pool filters is to clean dirt and debris that might otherwise be too small for the skimmer. If the filter gets clogged, it will not be able to do its job well. In order to backwash the filters, force water through the system in the opposite direction. When the water starts to look cloudy, this is one of the first places to look. Eventually, it might be time to replace the filters. Do this to keep the pool water crystal clear.

Avoid Baking Soda

Finally, it is important to address one of the most common misconceptions. Many people think that baking soda is a magical trick that can be used to kill anything in the pool. Do not use baking soda. It is a powerful base that will shoot up the pH in a matter of seconds. This is not a reliable pool chemical. Baking soda is best left to removing strange odors from the fridge.

At Dunn-Rite, we are here for all of your summer pool needs. When you are enjoying your pool this summer, why not add  pool volleyball and pool basketball to the mix? This is fun for family members and friends of all ages and we are proud to stock some of the top products from the leading brands! Take a look at our options today!

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