Build a Pool
Introduction
We’re well into spring now, and many are getting ready to prepare the pool for the swimming season. This means opening up the pool, and doing it right means you can have crystal-clear water in no time.
One of the most essential parts of this process is using the right pool chemicals. This helps with balancing the water, and preventing problems like algae growth, cloudy water, and more. In this post, we’ll go over the chemicals you need to get your pool ready for the season.
Essential Chemicals for Pool Opening
1. Chlorine
Chlorine is super important as this is what’s going to kill harmful bacteria and keep the pool safe. When you take off the cover, you’re going to need to add chlorine to get the proper sanitizer levels.
Depending on your pool’s condition, you may use:
- Stabilized chlorine tablets (better for long-term maintenance)
- Liquid chlorine (popularly used for a quick boost)
Aim for a chlorine level between 1-3 ppm (parts per million), but check your manufacturer instructions to be sure.
2. Pool Shock
Shock contains chlorine as an active ingredient, but is used more commonly for intensive cleaning, as it has a much higher concentration. Use this to super-chlorinate the water, eliminating organic waste, algae spores, and chloramines. Use either:
- Calcium hypochlorite shock (fast-acting but raises calcium hardness)
- Dichlor shock (stabilized and dissolves quickly)
For best results, you always shock your pool at night. Make sure you don’t swim in it until the chlorine levels drop (typically below 3 ppm).
3. Algaecide
This is a great chemical to use when you open your pool because it will stop algae before it gets a chance to take over. Different algaecides have certain strengths and weaknesses as well as different prices, so be sure to check with your pool service technician or retail store associate to figure out the best one for you.
Once you’ve made your selection, add algaecide after shocking and circulating the water for 24 hours.
4. pH Balancers
Test your water and figure out where your water’s pH level is at. You want your levels between 7.4 and 7.6, and if they’re not, you’re going to need to do some balancing. Adjust your levels with:
- pH increaser (sodium carbonate) if pH is too low
- pH decreaser (sodium bisulfate) if pH is too high
Also check total alkalinity (80-120 ppm) and calcium hardness (200-400 ppm) for balanced water.
5. Stain and Scale Preventers
If your pool has metal components, you need to be wary of scale buildup. You can avoid stain and scale by maintaining proper calcium levels. Use a scale inhibitor if needed, but be sure to test your water before adding it to the pool.
Conclusion
Opening your pool the right way will set your swimming season off to a great start. The chemistry can seem overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Just remember the essentials and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
If you go to any of our retail stores, you can get your water tested for free, and our associates can help point you in the right direction for finding the chemicals for your swimming pool. Click here to see all of our store locations.
Frequently test your water, and follow manufacturer instructions and you shouldn’t have any problems opening your pool this season. Soon enough, you’ll be enjoying your pool in no time!
