Sadly, pools don’t clean themselves without utilizing some chemicals to mitigate the various situations from sitting water. Chemicals used in swimming pools play a crucial role in maintaining water quality, disinfection, and overall safety for swimmers. Here are the primary chemicals used in swimming pools and their functions. Hopefully, you feel better knowing What and Why? You’ll definitely prefer your own pool over that interesting lake water, or ocean swimming!
Chlorine Compounds – Chlorine (Sodium Hypochlorite, Calcium Hypochlorite, Trichloroisocyanuric Acid): Chlorine is a common disinfectant used to kill bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms in the pool water. It helps maintain a safe and clean swimming environment.
Bromine – Bromine Tablets or Granules: Bromine is an alternative to chlorine for pool disinfection. It works similarly to chlorine, effectively killing bacteria and controlling algae and other organic contaminants in the water.
Algaecides – Copper-Based Algaecides: Algaecides are used to prevent and control algae growth in the pool. Copper-based algaecides are commonly used and help maintain the water’s clarity and appearance.
pH Adjusters – Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) and Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda): These chemicals are used to adjust and maintain the pH level of the pool water. Proper pH levels (around 7.2 to 7.8) ensure the effectiveness of disinfectants and prevent irritation to swimmers.
Acid (Hydrochloric Acid or Muriatic Acid) – Hydrochloric acid is used to lower the pH of pool water when it becomes too alkaline. It helps balance the water chemistry and improve the effectiveness of chlorine or bromine.
Calcium Hardness Adjusters – Calcium Chloride: Calcium chloride is used to adjust the calcium hardness of the pool water, ensuring it remains within the appropriate range (around 200-400 ppm). Proper calcium hardness helps prevent corrosion or scaling in the pool equipment and surfaces.
Stabilizer (Cyanuric Acid) – Cyanuric Acid (CYA): Stabilizer is used to protect chlorine from degradation due to ultraviolet (UV) sunlight. It helps maintain the effectiveness of chlorine in the pool water for a longer period.
Oxidizers – Potassium Monopersulfate (Non-Chlorine Shock): Oxidizers help break down and remove organic waste in the water, such as sweat, urine, and cosmetics. They also reduce chloramine buildup and enhance water clarity.
Flocculants and Clarifiers – Polyaluminum Chloride (PAC), Aluminum Sulfate (Alum): These chemicals help clear cloudy water by causing small particles to clump together, making it easier for the pool filter to remove them.
Salt (Sodium Chloride) – Salt for Saltwater Pools: Salt is used to generate chlorine through electrolysis in saltwater pools. The chlorine produced provides sanitation and disinfection in a manner similar to traditional chlorinated pools.
Regular testing of pool water and proper chemical adjustments based on the results are essential to maintain a safe and enjoyable swimming environment. It’s important to follow manufacturer instructions and safety guidelines when handling and using these pool chemicals.
Always keep chemicals out of reach of children. Thanks!