Pool Water Testing

Proper pool water testing on a
regular basis is essential to
maintaining a healthy and
clean swimming pool.
During the busy and hot
summer months, it is vital to test
the water in your swimming pool.
For areas that experience
seasonal changes, pool water
testing should be done to
check for changes in water
quality due to weather and temp
erature variations.

Because of improved
technology, the homeowner can
now do most of the necessary
water maintenance on his own
pool, including pool water
testing.

You can often buy a reliable testing kit from a pool supply store. Be sure to follow the directions on the kit, and if you have any questions, ask a store associate. To get an accurate water sample, do not use surface water. Instead, reach far below the surface of the pool to get an accurate water sample. For even more accurate results, take the water sample at the same time of day as your last sample.

Keeping your swimming pool chemically balanced is much easier now than it was in the past. Chemicals disinfect the water and keep it sparkling clean and ready to swim in at a moment’s notice! Chlorine or bromine can protect swimmers against germs and algae.

[Pullout:

]Many pool supply stores will even offer free water testing and analysis, and will make specific recommendations based on the results of the test.

One you have tested your water, charts that are included in the test kit will indicate your water’s pH balance. The ideal pH level for pool water is between 7.2 and 7.6. Maintaining your water pH level will help the chemicals do a proper job of disinfecting your pool, and will also keep unsightly and unhealthy scale from forming on the sides of the pool. Water chemistry varies by location, so don’t take the advice of a friend on what works for his pool. Your pool is unique and needs to have the results tested independently.

The pH of your pool tells you which chemicals to add to maintain a 7.2 to 7.6 pH level. Most pool supply stores are more than willing to explain the benefits of important chemicals and how they can be used in your pool. Liquid, powder or tablet forms of the chemicals are most often used in residential pools.

When conducting pool water testing, be sure to store chemicals and cleaners in a safe place out of the reach of children and pets. Check expiration dates, use protective gear and always follow manufacturers’ guidelines.