Adding Calcium?

[JaySav]

Test Results:
pH: 7.5
FC: 5.0
CC: 0.5
TC: 5.5
TA: 60
CYA: 35
CH: 125
Salt: 3140

According to pool math, I need to add 23lbs of Calcium to get to 250ppm. In pool school it says “add to deep end”. Is there a limit to how much you should add at one time or should I just dump 23 lbs into the deep end all at once? While the pumps are on or off?

 

[mknauss]

I would do it in several batches. Be sure to brush well the area you add it to. Pumps on.

 

[splashpad]

Test Results:
pH: 7.5
FC: 5.0
CC: 0.5
TC: 5.5
TA: 60
CYA: 35
CH: 125
Salt: 3140

According to pool math, I need to add 23lbs of Calcium to get to 250ppm. In pool school it says “add to deep end”. Is there a limit to how much you should add at one time or should I just dump 23 lbs into the deep end all at once? While the pumps are on or off?

Welcome and great question (and thanks for posting the test results)

• Suggestions
  • CYA is logarithmic, always round up to higher whole 10 = CYA/40
• Any substantial chemical additions/changes should be broken down into stages
  • I would add the calcium in 2-3 separated doses so as not to overshoot
    • You can always add, but too much calcium = draining
• "Calcium products should be spread across the surface of the deep end of the pool." The calcium should dissolve as long as it's not overly saturated
  • I think you can dissolve small amounts in 5gal bucket?

 

[mknauss]

I think you can dissolve small amounts in 5gal bucket?

Be careful doing that. Dissolving calcium chloride in water is an exothermic reaction. It gets HOT!

 

[splashpad]

Be careful doing that. Dissolving calcium chloride in water is an exothermic reaction. It gets HOT!

I don't have to play with calcium (yay for vinyl!!), so I couldn't remember which one that was And Pool School does not have clear info on handling/adding calcium

 

[beez74]

I dissolved 5 lbs at a time in a bucket and dumped throughout the day, less chance of piles of it at the bottom of the pool.

 

[JaySav]

I did the 5lb at a time method in a bucket and stirred good with a piece of aluminum extrusion before pouring it in. It was fully dissolved when I poured it each time so I just did it back to back until I hit 23lbs. Thanks you guys, so basically just wait a few days and I should be able to get an accurate level check?

 

[borjis]

You don't have to wait. As long as it is dissolved. Let the pump run for about 2 hours and you can test then.