ABC’s of Pool Water Chemistry
There are several items things every pool owner should know about swimming pool water. We share details on the basics of Pool Water Chemistry.
Recommended Levels
We wish to help you understand optimal levels for your pool. Follow the chemical levels in this article and you'll enjoy a clear pool with little effort.
Swimming Pool Test Kits Compared
We have completed pool test kit reviews to show you the best option. A proper kit or test strips, which is best for you to maintain your pool.
Guide for Seasonal/Temporary Pools
Smaller seasonal pools can see just as much enjoyment as their larger counterparts. In this guide we'll show you how to maintain your temporary pool.
OTO Chlorine Test
This test is the most reliable way to check for the presence of chlorine. If chlorine is present, the sample will turn some color. If it remains clear, there is no chlorine.
FAS-DPD Chlorine Test
The FAS-DPD chlorine test is used to find the level of Free Chlorine in the pool water. It uses a powder to show the presence of free chlorine in the sample pool water followed by liquid drops to determine the total amount of free chlorine in the sample of pool water. It is very important to know the amount of free chlorine in the pool water for swimmer safety and water cleanliness.
pH Test
The pH test is a dropped based test using color matching. The solution is dropped into a sample of the pool water in the test vial where the color is matched to the level guide. The pH level plays a big role in the comfort of swimmers eyes and skin.
Total Alkalinity
A drop-based test used to measure the alkalinity in water. Alkalinity helps serve as a buffer for pH, and when monitored properly, it can help to keep pH more stable and predictable.
Calcium Hardness
A drop-based test that measures the hardness in your water. Once measured, it is used to determine if there is a potential for scaling to the pool surfaces (too hard) or possible damaged to the plaster (too soft).
CYA – Cyanuric Acid Test
Cyanuric acid (CYA) is the chemical name for the product commonly called “pool water stabilizer” or “pool water conditioner”. CYA protects free chlorine (FC) from the sun and protects swimmers from chlorine. Accurate testing of the CYA level is critical to managing your pool water and is the one test that is most often performed incorrectly. These instructions are intended to be as detailed as possible to guide you most effectively.
Salt Test
The Salt Test is used to determine the concentration of sodium chloride (salt) in pool water. This test is most important for pools using salt water chlorine generators (SWGs). Because other forms of chlorine and pool chemicals leave salt in the pool water as a byproduct, the salt test should be completed before adding salt to SWG recommended levels.
Extended Test Directions
We’ve all done it, we’ve all lost the directions or ruined ours by getting them wet. Here’s a collection of directions for use of the most popular FAS/DPD kits recommended on TFP.