Pool Chemical Safety

 

Pool chemicals are essential to the overall functionality of the pool. While crystal-clear, clean swimming pools can be the center of summer fun. Many people focus on wearing sunscreen and keeping everyone safe while swimming, but generally, the chemicals present in pools are an afterthought.

We all know that pool chemicals are meant to disinfect the water, eliminating germs and bacteria. When used properly, chemicals such as chlorine and bromine keep people safe from potential health issues.

Storing, handling, and measuring the pool compounds is vital to maintaining the overall water ecosystem. These chemicals can be dangerous if handled incorrectly. Maintaining basic safety rules when using pool chemicals and equipment is imperative.

Chlorine works in tandem with the pH level (acidity) in pool water to create a safe environment for swimming. However, dirt, organic materials such as skin cells or fecal matter, leaves, sunlight, etc., can quickly lower chlorine levels.

If the pool water has a high pH level, it is more difficult for chlorine to reduce bacteria. The human body has a pH ranging from 7.2 to 7.8; if the pool water is outside this range, swimmers will have irritated skin, red, bloodshot eyes, ear pain, labored breathing, congestion, and/or cough.

According to the CDC, a balanced pool should not smell like chlorine. When a pool smells like a strong chemical, it is usually due to a chemical reaction of sweat, urine, dirt, skin cells, or fecal matter with chlorinated water. To prevent chloramines, ensure swimmers do not have diarrhea, take bathroom breaks, shower before and after getting in the pool, wear a swim cap, and do not urinate in the water.

Below are some tips for safely handling pool chemicals:

·         Add chemicals carefully and handle with care

·         Store chemicals in an extremely dry area away from other chemicals

·         Do not mix chemicals from different years

·         Only use approved pool chemicals

·         Never mix your own chemicals

 

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

 

Difference Between Saltwater and Chlorine Pools

 

When pool owners build or remodel their pool, they take into account size, shape, activities, accessories, and, more recently, water sanitation methods. The two most common types of pool sanitation are saltwater and chlorine. But what are the differences, and why do they matter? Continue reading to find out.

Differences Between Saltwater and Chlorine

In saltwater pools, electrolysis creates chlorine thanks to pool-grade salt and a chlorine generator. The salty water passes through two electrically-charged plates, which then get converted to chlorine. While chlorine is still present in the pool, the process is different from a traditional chlorine pool. 

On the other hand, chlorine pools must be tested and balanced with liquid or tablet chlorine. Additionally, pH and calcium hardness must be sampled and adjusted. 

While each pool is sanitized with the same chemical, saltwater pools create fewer chloramines, contributing to the smell and feel of traditional chlorine pools.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claims that chloramines are “a type of combined chlorine that form in water,” and emit gas into the surrounding air, causing that typical chlorine smell, eye redness, and lung irritation. 

Saltwater Benefits

• Everyday operations are cheaper, with an entire summer supply of salt costing roughly $25, and chlorine $165 
• Gentler on skin, eyes, hair, swimsuits, etc.
• No chemical chlorine smell

Chlorine Benefits

• More cost-effective to keep a traditional chlorine pool if it already exists; converting to saltwater can cost roughly $3,000 or more
• The pool still works on cold days

Saltwater Disadvantages

• Pool can deteriorate more quickly due to salt erosion 
• Salt chlorine generators require more maintenance
• Chlorine will not be produced in water cooler than 60 degrees

Chlorine Disadvantages

• Chlorine can cause dry skin, red eyes, bleached swimwear, irritated noses, throat, lungs, etc.
• Chemicals cost more than pool grade salt
• Chloramines produce a strong chemical smell, especially indoors

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts - contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com  

A Helpful Guide to Pool Opening

 

You can’t see us, but we’re jumping for joy! Pool season is almost here, and after a dreary winter, you might be just as excited as we are…but not so fast. It takes more than skimming the water or removing the pool cover to “open” your pool for the season. Read on for suggestions.

Timer Settings
Ensure your pool timer is set to the correct season to run the most efficiently. You can waste money and energy by letting it run too long or too little.

Clean Debris
Skimmer baskets and the pump should be emptied of debris. Even though this might sound like a no-brainer, letting debris (like leaves) sit too long can clog the plumbing/filtration systems, damaging the pool pump. If the basket is cracked, make sure you replace it as soon as possible to avoid future issues. Also make sure you dislodge debris from the walls and floor by brushing around the pool.

Pressure Gauge
While the pump is off, the pressure gauge should be at zero. If it’s running above zero, it’s time for a replacement. This gadget is critical for understanding whether the rest of your pool equipment is functioning properly.

Sanitization
If your pool uses a chlorine float, fill it and replace it if cracked. The steady supply of chlorine (or sanitizer of your choice) will help your water handle heavy usage, animals, leaves, etc.

Check for Leaks
Look around the pump, filter, valves, and other equipment to ensure there are no leaks. Small leaks might not seem drastic, but they can eventually cause a disaster. Try to isolate any issues and contact a pool technician if you see any leaks.

Balance Water
Last but not least, get ready to hop in your pool by using chlorine, shock, or other pool chemicals to neutralize the pH. Use your water test results as a guide to determine what is needed.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts - contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

 

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.