Fiberglass Pools Use & Care Manual
Occasionally, pool water should also be tested for “total alkalinity.” Total alkalinity is a measurement of the total amount of alkaline chemicals in the water. It refers to the degree of resistance to pH change of the pool water or its “buffering capacity.” The proper alkalinity is between 125 ppm and 150 ppm.
Low alkalinity waters make pH control difficult because of lack of buffering capacity (or poor resistance to pH change). Alkalinity must be increased in these waters to offset the possibility of the pool water reverting to acid.
Many waters are of high total alkalinity and high pH. To get these waters into the swimming pool “comfort zone” it is necessary to destroy a portion of the alkalinity so the pH can be lowered. This can by accomplished by the addition of muriatic acid.
Other factors of vital importance are metal contents, calcium hardness, cyanuric acid and total dissolved solids. These factors should be checked by your pool professional at least once every six to eight weeks to be sure they are within proper ranges.
Handling and storing pool chemicals (Most pool chemicals are stable, retaining their effectiveness and strength for a considerable period of time when stored properly).
1) Keep all chemicals out of the reach of children.
2) Date all chemicals on the container.
3) Keep the original lid on all chemical containers and make sure all the lids are tightly sealed. Store chemicals in a cool, dry place.
4) Chlorine chemicals are concentrated chemicals which can be dangerous if not handled properly. Do not mix them with anything except water.
5) Use plastic, glass, china or enamelware scoops, measures and spoons . . . and be sure they are clean and dry.
6) Measure and add pool chemicals separately, according to directions. Do not mix one with another before adding them to the pool.
7) Most pool chemicals are harmful to shrubs, grass and foliage in concentrated form. Keep pool chemicals away from plant life near the pool.
8) Hands should be clean and dry when dispensing pool chemicals. Wash hands thoroughly after treating pool.
9) Real all labels carefully before using pool chemicals and always follow directions exactly.