Water analysis: what needs to be checked?
Three parameters influence the balance of the water in your pool: its acidity, hardness and alkalinity. The water needs to be neither too calcareous, too hard nor too soft. An accurate analysis will allow you to achieve the correct balance. It is important, both for swimmers’ health and safety, as well as to enhance the effectiveness and lifespan of your equipment.
Regularly analyze the following three factors:
- Acidity (pH): the pH of your water must be neutral, around 7.
- The Hardness (CH): ideally the water CH should be between 200 and 400mg/L. If it’s above this level, you may risk having limestone deposits on the walls of your swimming pool.
- The alkalinity (TA): make sure to maintain the level between 80 and 120 mg/L.
- Additionally, make sure to check the level of disinfectant in your pool water.
Did you know that the water temperature can also affect disinfection? Too high a temperature can encourage the growth of algae and damage your liner.
Finally, you can also do a simple visual check of the colour of your water. It will be obvious if the water becomes cloudy, or greenish in color. Should that happen, take steps immediately to restore the water balance.
Products to help you analyze your water
To take the various necessary measurements,use a colorimetric tester or digital tester.
The colorimetric test works this way: you dip a strip into the water, then remove it. Wait a few seconds, then compare the colour on the strip against the colours shown on the packaging of your tester. This will indicate whether the level is too low or too high. There are several models of testers available – choose the one that suits you best.
You should also consider getting products that allow you to correct the balance of your water (pH, alkalinity, etc.).
It is in your best interest to analyze the water regularly. Doing so will avoid having to deal with a major issue and losing control of your water balance during peak swimming season!
Did you know that there are tools to analyze your pool water online? Thanks to these online tools, you can diagnose your water from home. You only need to enter the results of your water tests online to obtain immediate recommendations on the exact quantity of the products you need to balance your water.
With minimum effort and constant, regular monitoring, you can enjoy crystal-clear pool water throughout the season!
