How To Deal with Problems in Swimming Pool Maintenance?
In the hot summer, swimming has become the first choice of recreational activities. It not only brings coolness and joy, but also helps people keep fit. Then, the pool maintenance is particularly important, which is directly related to the safety of the pool water and the efficiency of the equipment operation. This article presents a series of professional and perfect solutions to common problems in pool maintenance, designed to help pool managers and swimmers to easily cope with these problems and enjoy a cleaner, safer and more comfortable swimming environment.
Before the article, let's take a look at some important concepts that will help us understand what follows.
Available Chlorine Content: It refers to the amount of chlorine that chloride can oxidize, usually in the form of percentage, relating to the effectiveness and disinfecting ability of disinfectants.
Free Chlorine (FC) and Combined Chlorine (CC): Free chlorine is free hypochlorous acid or hypochlorite, almost odorless, with high disinfection efficiency; Combined chlorine is the reaction with ammonia nitrogen, like sweat and urine, to produce chloramine, not only has a strong irritating smell, but also has a low disinfection efficiency. When there is insufficient chlorine and a high ammonia nitrogen level, the combined chlorine will be formed.
Cyanuric Acid (CYA): CYA, also a pool stabilizer, can keep the hypochlorous acid stable in the pool and prevent its rapid decomposition under sunlight, thus ensuring the durability of the disinfection effect. This can effectively prevent the growth of bacteria and algae, and keep the water clear and sanitary. It should be noted that the CYA level. It is important to note that CYA levels should not exceed 100 ppm.
Chlorine Shock: By increasing the chlorine in the pool, the chlorine level in the water will rise rapidly in a short time to achieve rapid disinfection, sterilization or resolve water quality problems.
Now, we will formally discuss how to solve the problems in the pool maintenance.
Water Quality is the Key to Pool Maintenance
>1.1 Bacteria and Viruses
Perfect water quality requires good sanitation to ensure that swimmers will not infect waterborne diseases. Properly using disinfectants can ensure this. Generally speaking, chlorine disinfection, bromine disinfection and PHMB disinfection are the common methods to disinfect swimming pools.
1.1.1 Chlorine Disinfection
Chlorine disinfection in swimming pools is a common and effective method of water quality treatment. Chlorine in the water will produce hypochlorous acid, which can destroy the cell structure of bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms, so as to achieve the disinfection. The commonly used chlorine chemicals in the market are Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate, Trichloroisocyanuric Acid and Calcium Hypochlorite.
- Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate, also SIDC or NaDCC, is a highly effective disinfectant, usually in white granules. It contains 55%-60% available chlorine, which can effectively kill bacteria, viruses and algae, providing a safe and healthy swimming environment. SDIC is not only safe, but also can be stored for a long time, valid for more than two years under suitable conditions. Because SDIC has high solubility and fast dissolution rate, it can be well applied to the swimming pool shock treatment, meanwhile, it has little impact on the pH level of swimming pools. And SDIC is stabilized chlorine, so it doesn't need to add CYA. In addition, an effervescent agent can be added to SDIC to make effervescent tablets, which have a much higher dissolution rate than pure SDIC tablets, and can be used for household disinfection.
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- Trichloroisocyanuric Acid (TCCA) is also a highly effective disinfectant, which contains up to 90% of available chlorine. Like SDIC, TCCA is stabilized chlorine that does not require CYA when used in pools, but it will lower the pH level of the pool water. Because TCCA has a low solubility and slow dissolution rate, it is usually in the form of tablets and used in feeders or dispensers. But because of this feature, TCCA can continuously and steadily release hypochlorous acid in the water, so as to keep the pool clean and disinfection effect for longer. Besides, TCCA can be made into multifunctional tablets with limited clarifying and algae-killing properties.
Calcium Hypochlorite, also known as CHC, an inorganic compound in the form of white to off-white particles, is one of the disinfectants commonly used in pool maintenance. Its available chlorine content is 65% or 70%. Unlike SDIC and TCCA, CHC is non-stabilized chlorine and does not increase the CYA level in the pool. So if there is a serious water quality issue that needs to be addressed and a high CYA level in the pool, CHC is a good choice for pool shock. CHC is more troublesome than using other chlorine disinfectants. Because CHC contains a large amount of insoluble matter, it needs to be dissolved and clarified before being poured into the pool.
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1.1.2 Bromine Disinfection
Bromine disinfection has also gained popularity in pool maintenance because of its mild, long-lasting disinfection effect. Bromine exists in water in the form of HBrO and bromine ion (Br-), of which HBrO has strong oxidation and can effectively kill bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms. Bromochlorodimethylhydantoin is a chemical commonly used in bromine disinfection.
Bromochlorodimethylhydantoin (BCDMH), a kind of the high cost of bromine disinfectant, usually in white tablets, has 28% available chlorine and 60% available bromine. Because of its low solubility and slow dissolution rate, BCDMH is commonly used in spas and hot tubs. However, BCDMH bromine has lower smell than chlorine, so it reduces the irritation to swimmers' eyes and skin. At the same time, BCDMH has good stability in the water and is not easily affected by pH, ammonia nitrogen and CYA levels, which effectively ensures its disinfection efficiency. Because bromine will not be stabilized by CYA, be careful not to use it in outdoor swimming pools.
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1.1.3 PHMB / PHMG
PHMB, colorless transparent liquid or the white particle, its solid form is highly soluble in water. Using PHMB, on the one hand, does not produce bromine smell, avoiding skin irritation, on the other hand, does not need to consider the problem of CYA levels. However, the cost of PHMB is high, and it is not compatible with chlorine and bromine systems, and switching is cumbersome, so if the procedure of using PHMB is not strictly followed, there will be a lot of trouble. PHMG has the same efficacy as PHMB.
>1.2 pH Balance
The right pH level not only maximizes the effectiveness of the disinfectant, but also prevents corrosion and scale deposition. Typically, the pH of the water is about 5-9, while the pH required for pool water is usually between 7.2-7.8. The pH level is very important for the safety of the pool. The lower the value, the stronger the acidity; The higher the value, the more basic it is.
1.2.1 High pH Level (higher than 7.8)
When the pH exceeds 7.8, the pool water becomes alkaline. A higher pH reduces the effectiveness of chlorine in the pool, making it less effective at disinfecting. This can lead to skin health problems for swimmers, cloudy pool water and scaling of pool equipment. When the pH is too high, pH Minus (Sodium Bisulfate) can be added to reduce the pH.
1.2.2 Low pH Level (less than 7.2)
When pH is too low, the pool water will become acidic and corrosive, causing a series of problems:
- Acidic water can irritate swimmers' eyes and nasal passages and dry out their skin and hair, thereby causing itching;
- Acidic water can corrode metal surfaces and pool fittings such as ladders, railings, light fixtures and any metal in pumps, filters or heaters;
- Low pH in the water can cause corrosion and deterioration of gypsum, cement, stone, concrete and tile. Any vinyl surface will also become brittle, increasing the risk of cracking and tearing. All of these dissolved minerals get trapped in the pool water solution, which can cause the pool water to become dirty and cloudy;
- In addition, free chlorine in the water will be rapidly lost as a result, which may lead to the growth of bacteria and algae.
When there is the low pH level in the pool, you can add pH Plus (Sodium Carbonate) to raise the pH until the pool's pH remains in the range of 7.2-7.8.
Note: After adjusting the pH level, be sure to adjust the total alkalinity to the normal range (60-180ppm).
1.3 Total Alkalinity
In addition to a balanced pH level, the total alkalinity also affects the stability and safety of the pool water quality. Total alkalinity, also TC, represents the pH buffering capacity of a water body. High TC makes pH regulation to become difficult and may lead to scale formation when calcium hardness is too high; Low TC can cause pH to drift, making it difficult to stabilize within the ideal range. The ideal TC range is 80-100 mg/L (for pools using stabilized chlorine) or 100-120 mg/L (for pools using stabilized chlorine), allowing up to 150 mg/L if it is a plastic lined pool. It is recommended to test the TC level once a week.
When the TC is too low, Sodium Bicarbonate can be used; When the TC is too high, Sodium Bisulfate or Hydrochloric Acid can be used for neutralization. But the most effective way to reduce the TC is to change the partial water; Or add acid to control the pH of the pool water below 7.0, and use a blower to blow air into the pool to remove carbon dioxide until the TC drops to the desired level.
1.4 Calcium Hardness
Calcium hardness (CH), which is a basic test of water balance, relates to the clarity of the pool, the durability of the equipment and the comfort of the swimmer.
When the pool water CH is low, the pool water will erode the wall of the concrete pool, and is easy to bubble; The high CH of the pool water can easily lead to scale formation and reduce the effectiveness of copper algaecide. At the same time, scaling will seriously affect the heat transfer efficiency of the heater. It is recommended to test the pool water hardness once a week. Ideal range of CH is 180-250 mg/L (plastic padded pool) or 200-275 mg/L (concrete pool).
If there is low CH in the pool, it can be increased by adding Calcium Chloride. In the addition process, attention should be paid to control the dose and uniform distribution to avoid excessive local concentration. If the CH is too high, a scale remover can be used to remove the scale. When using it, please be strictly in accordance with the instructions to avoid damage to the pool equipment and water quality.
>1.5 Turbidity
Turbidity is also an important indicator in pool maintenance. Cloudy pool water will not only affect the look and feel of the pool, but also reduce the disinfection effect. The main source of turbidity is suspended particles in the pool, which can be removed by flocculants. The most common flocculant is Aluminum Sulfate, sometimes PAC is used, of course, there are a few people who use PDADMAC and Pool Gel.
1.5.1 Aluminum Sulfate
Aluminum Sulfate (also termed Alum) is an excellent pool flocculant that keeps your pool clean and clear. In the pool treatment, alum dissolves in water to form flocs that attract and bind to suspended solids and contaminants in the pool, making it easier to separate from the water. Specifically, alum dissolved in water slowly hydrolyzes to form the positively charged Al(OH)3 colloid, which absorbs normally negatively charged suspended particles in the water and then rapidly coalesces together and precipitates to the bottom. After that, the sediment can be separated from the water by precipitation or filtration. However, alum has a disadvantage, that is, when there is the low water temperature, the formation of flocs will become slow and loose, which affects the coagulation and flocculation effect of the water.
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1.5.2 Polyaluminum Chloride
Polyaluminum Chloride (PAC) is also a compound commonly used in swimming pool water treatment. It is an inorganic polymer flocculant that plays a vital role in maintaining water quality by effectively removing suspended particles, colloids and organic matter. At the same time, PAC can also remove dead algae in the pool to control algae growth. It should be noted that alum and PAC are aluminum flocculants. When using the aluminum flocculant, it is necessary to dissolve the flocculant before adding it to the pool, then let the pump work until the flocculant is completely and evenly dispersed into the pool water. After that, turn off the pump and keep still. When sediments sink to the bottom of the pool, you need to use the vacuum cleaner to suck up them.
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1.5.3 PDADMAC and Pool Gel
PDADMAC and Pool Gel are both organic flocculants. When in use, the formed flocs will be filtered by the sand filter, and remember to backwash the filter after finishing the flocculation. When using PDADMAC, it needs to be dissolved before being added to the pool, while Pool Gel only needs to be placed in the skimmer, which is very convenient. Compared with alum and PAC, the flocculation performance of both is relatively poor.
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1.6 Algae Growth
Algae growth in swimming pools is a common and troublesome problem. It will not only affect the appearance of the pool to make the pool water cloudy, but also cause bacteria to breed, affecting the health of swimmers. Now let's talk about how to solve the algae problem perfectly.
1.6.1 Types of Algae
First, we need to know what algae are present in the pool.
Green algae: The most common algae in pools, this is a tiny green plant. It can not only float in the pool water to make the pool water green, but also attach to the wall or bottom of the pool to make it slippery.
Blue algae: This is a type of bacteria, usually in the form of blue, green, or black floating filaments that are particularly prone to widespread growth. And it is more tolerant to algicides than green algae.
Yellow algae: This is a chromista. It grows on backlit pool walls and corners and tends to produce scattered yellow, gold, or brown-green spots. Yellow algae are very tolerant to algicides, but copper algicides are usually effective.
Black algae: Like blue algae, this is a type of bacteria. Black algae often grows in concrete swimming pools, producing greasy black, brown, or blue-black spots or stripes about the size of a pencil tip on the pool walls. Because black algae are highly resistant to algicides, usually they can only be eliminated with a high concentration of chlorine shock and careful scrubbing.
Pink algae: Unlike other algae, this is a fungus that appears near the waterline and appears as pink spots or bands. Quaternary ammonium salts can kill the pink algae, but because they appear near the waterline and are not in contact with pool water, the effect of chemicals in the water is not good and it usually requires manual brushing.
1.6.2 Causes of Algae Growth
Insufficient chlorine levels, unbalanced pH, and inadequate filtration systems are the main reasons for algae growth. Rainfall also contributes to algae blooms. Rain can wash algae spores into the pool and disrupt the water balance, creating a good environment for algae to grow. At the same time, as summer temperatures rise, so does the water temperature of the pool, creating growing conditions for bacteria and algae. In addition, algae can also be produced by contaminants carried by swimmers, such as the swimsuits they wear and the toys they play with in lakes or seawater.
1.6.3 Types of Algicides
In general, there are two main methods of killing algae: physical algae-killing and chemical algae-killing. Physical algae-killing mainly refers to the use of manual or automatic algae scrapers to remove algae from the surface of the water. However, this method does not completely remove algae, but only improves the success rate of chemical algae-killing. Chemical algae-killing is to add algicides to remove algae or inhibit their growth. Because algicides usually have a slow algae-killing effect, it is mainly used to inhibit algae. Algicides are mainly divided into the following three categories:
- Polyquaternary ammonium salt algicide: This is a kind of high cost algicide, but its performance is better than other algicide, neither bubbles, nor causes scaling and staining.
- Quaternary ammonium salt algicide: This algicide is low cost with good effect, and does not cause scaling and staining. But it can cause foaming and harm the filter.
- Chelated copper: This is the most common algicide, not only cheap, but also has a good effect on killing algae. However, using chelated copper algicide is prone to scaling and staining, and is prohibited in some areas.
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1.6.4 How to Solve the Algae Problem
- First, choose the suitable algicide. Our company provides a variety of algae-killing chemicals, including Super Algicide, Strong Algicide, Quarter Algicide, Blue Algicide, etc., which can effectively inhibit the growth of algae and bacteria and create a safe swimming environment for swimmers.
- Second, scrub the algae attached to the walls and bottom of the pool with a brush.
- Third, test the water quality, including the free chlorine level and pH. Free chlorine is one of the indicators of disinfection capacity, and pH can provide a stable environment for other pool chemicals to follow.
- Fourth, add algicides to the pool water, which can kill algae well.
- Fifth, add disinfectants into the pool, which can be a good aid to the algicide to work, and solve the algae problem faster.
- Sixth, keep the circulation system running. Keeping the pool equipment running at all times allows pool chemicals to reach every corner, ensuring maximum coverage of the pool.
- Finally, after finishing the above steps, be sure to backwash the sand filter to maintain the good operation of the equipment.
Routine Maintenance is also an Integral Part of Pool Maintenance
To keep the pool clean and clear in the long term, in addition to addressing the above water quality issues, daily pool maintenance is also crucial.
2.1 Test the Water Quality Regularly
Water quality is the core of pool maintenance. The regular test of the pH level, free chlorine, total alkalinity and other key indicators in the water is the first step to ensure the safety of water quality. Too high or too low pH will not only affect the disinfection effect, but may also cause skin and eye irritation. Therefore, it is an important task for daily maintenance to adjust the water quality in time according to the test results and maintain it within the ideal range.
2.2 Maintain the Filtration System
A pool's filtration system is key to keeping the water clear and clean. Regular cleaning or replacement of the filter material and checking the operation of the pump and pipe to ensure smooth flow of the water are the basis for maintaining the efficient operation of the filtration system. In addition, a reasonable backwash cycle can also effectively extend the service life of the filter material and improve the filtration effect.
2.3 Clean the Swimming Pool
Cleaning the pool surface and pool wall is also the focus of daily maintenance. Using professional cleaning tools, such as pool brush, suction machine, etc., to regularly remove the floating objects on the pool surface, the pool wall moss and the pool bottom sediment, can maintain the overall beauty and safety of the pool. Meanwhile, pay attention to check whether the tile and other materials are intact and repair the damage in time, thus avoiding water pollution.
2.4 Preventive Maintenance
In addition to daily cleaning and inspection, preventive maintenance is also important. For example, the inspection of drainage system should be strengthened before the rainy season to prevent rainwater backpouring. Complete equipment overhaul and maintenance before the peak season to ensure stable operation of the pool during the peak season. These measures can greatly reduce the risk of sudden failure and extend the service life of the pool.
Overall, swimming pool maintenance is a complex and meticulous job that requires great effort and patience from pool managers. As long as we do a good job of routine maintenance and reasonable use of pool chemicals, we can provide a perfect and healthy swimming pool environment for swimmers. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. As a leading manufacturer of swimming pool chemicals in China, we can provide professional guidance and cost-effective products.
