Water chemistry is important for all pool owners. Maintaining the water balance of a pool is vital to keep swimmers safe from dangerous bacteria, as well as to keep the water blue and sparkling. With routine maintenance, pool owners can save money on costly repairs, as well as spending less time and effort in keeping the pool clean.
The choice of the type of chlorine to use is the first step in the pool balance process. Most pool owners choose to use liquid chlorine as it is the least expensive way to add sanitizer. There are other options. Chlorine can also be added to a pool using one- or three- inch tablets, sticks, or powder. These are normally added to the pool in a floating dispenser, and all are typically more expensive than liquid chlorine. Chlorine tablets contain cyanuric acid, which is also known as stabilizer or conditioner, and which helps the chlorine’s effectiveness and prevents it from being burned off by sunlight. Keeping the stabilizer at the correct level ensures maximum effectiveness of the chlorine. No matter what form is used, chlorine should not be added through the pool skimmer, as this causes undue stress to the pool equipment.
Probably the best solution to the chlorine issue is the installation of a chlorine generator. Salt is added to the pool water, and an in-line cell converts the salt in the water(sodium chloride) into a pH neutral, mild chlorine. This is fed continually into the pool while the equipment is running, keeping a consistent level of sanitizer in the pool. Never again will there be a problem of dry skin, bleached bathing suits, blonde hair turning green, or ruined carpet in the car! Horizon has installed hundreds of these systems. Call our store for more details.
There are other chemicals besides chlorine that contribute to a balanced pool. The pH level, which usually rises with chlorine additions, is lowered by the addition of pool acid. Alkalinity is raised by adding bicarbonate of soda, and calcium levels don’t fluctuate much, so a monthly check is all that is needed to make sure that it is in line. Horizon’s expert staff will be happy to do a complete free water analysis once a month and to advise on what is needed to keep your pool safe, clean, and in proper balance.
You can trust the Horizon Pool and Patio staff when it comes to pool and spa care. Family owned and operated, they have been serving Wellington, Royal Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Acreage, Loxahatchee and many other communities in Palm Beach County since 1985.
Horizon Pool and Patio provides both residential and commercial pool and spa service, equipment repairs, retail supplies and equipment, along with full pool renovations and remodeling. For more information on Horizon Pool & Patio, check newhp.wpengine.com or call (561) 790-0665. You can always visit their Wellington store located in the Wellington Plaza next to Schaefer’s Drugs at 12785A W. Forest Hill Boulevard.
