November 2011
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Changing Your Hot Tub Water in 4 Simple Steps
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How to Choose the Right In-ground Pool for You
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The Savvy Pool Owner Knows that Pool Care is all About Balance
April 2010
by Carole Hicks, Arch Chemicals Customer Care Center
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In order to have beautiful, clear and refreshing swimming pool water, it is necessary to make sure the water is “balanced.” This means that the water’s chemistry needs to be in harmony , so that the pH or total alkalinity or any other attribute of the water is at industry recommended levels.
Unfortunately, many pool owners take for granted this essential aspect of pool care maintenance. Water chemistry is of the utmost importance because it is only when the water is balanced, or in harmony, that the swimming pool chemicals work best.
For example, when the pH or total alkalinity is out of balance, the level of free available chlorine may be compromised. Adding chemicals to pool water that is out of balance can be wasteful and can lead to more costly problems. Furthermore, pH or total alkalinity that is out of range for longer periods of time can cause damage to the pool liner and foster the growth of mold and algae.
Testing pool water prior to adding any swimming pool chemicals is the first rule of thumb for owners. Professional dealers have several options to help with this process. The easiest and most convenient to use are test strips which provide almost immediate results. The second tool is the test kit with reagents. While these kits require a little more effort than the strips, they are also very easy to use and provide accurate results. But for the owner who would rather have a professional analysis, most dealers have computerized water testing labs in their stores for the most accurate and effective means of testing water chemistry. It is highly recommended that you take your pool water sample to the dealer at least once a month for a detailed water analysis.
Regardless of the method used to test the water, a savvy pool owner will take time to understand the necessity of balanced water and test it as part of the weekly maintenance routine.
Keeping swimming pool water balanced takes less effort and is more economical than trying to remedy the problems that can be created when water chemistry is out of range. Your professional dealer has all the products and tools necessary to keep your pool clean, clear and working in perfect harmony with your plans for summertime fun!
