Differences in Chemistry Recommendations

[pool512]

I have just installed an Intellicenter with a SWG in my existing pool setup, and have a question I couldn't find an answer to... why is there such a difference between the manufacturer (Pentair) chemistry recommendations and those here at TFP (and in my PoolMath app)? Particularly the following:

Measure	Pentair Recommendation (PPM)	TFP Recommendation (PPM)
Free Chlorine	2-4	4-6
Cyanuric Acid	30-50	60-80
Total Alkalinity	80-120	60-80

I've had nothing but great luck following the advice for maintaining my pool found here, but get a little nervous reading the warnings from my Raypak (heater) and Pentair about FC levels above 4 PPM causing "corrosion of metal components."

Can someone explain the differences, and why I shouldn't be worried about damaging my equipment with the higher FC levels suggested?

Thank you!

 

[Texas Splash]

why is there such a difference between the manufacturer (Pentair) chemistry recommendations and those here at TFP (and in my PoolMath app)?

This is one of those most popular questions on TFP. Do a quick search and you'll find many similar questions. Those recommended ranges are extremely vague, generic, and still used by several manufactures. They do not account various pool types, the proper FC-CYA relationship (per FC/CYA Levels), and assume pool owners use acidic products like chlorine tabs. SWGs operate more efficiently with a higher CYA (Circupool for example acknowledges that fact). TFP recommended levels account for these and many other variables the outdated generic levels do not. Stick to the PoolMath and you should do fine.

 

[Newdude]

Plain and simple. The industry treats CYA and FC as two independent values. We respect their relationship and the CYA value determines the proper FC range.

As far as being 'safe' goes, FC is safe anywhere between minimum and SLAM per the FC/CYA Levels.

 

[pool512]

Thank you, and I will try searching differently. TFP/PoolMath recommendations have not steered me wrong.

To be very specific on my concern, are you saying that higher levels of FC (4-6) will not cause corrosion of metal components?

Thanks again!

 

[Texas Splash]

To be very specific on my concern, are you saying that higher levels of FC (4-6) will not cause corrosion of metal components?

Correct. The CYA works to buffer the chlorine. The levels are balanced together as noted on the FC/CYA Levels to protect the pool, equipment, and ensure proper water sanitation. In fact, if you look at the FC/CYA Levels you'll see a tab for the SLAM Process. You can actually be in the water up to SLAM FC levels.

 

[pool512]

Correct. The CYA works to buffer the chlorine. The levels are balanced together as noted on the FC/CYA Levels to protect the pool, equipment, and ensure proper water sanitation. In fact, if you look at the FC/CYA Levels you'll see a tab for the SLAM Process. You can actually be in the water up to SLAM FC levels.

Thanks much!

 

[Leebo]

As for the differences in TA……we’ve seen this one so often we did a short cartoon even about it.

 

[Mdragger88]

I have just installed an Intellicenter with a SWG in my existing pool setup, and have a question I couldn't find an answer to... why is there such a difference between the manufacturer (Pentair) chemistry recommendations and those here at TFP (and in my PoolMath app)? Particularly the following:

Measure	Pentair Recommendation (PPM)	TFP Recommendation (PPM)
Free Chlorine	2-4	4-6
Cyanuric Acid	30-50	60-80
Total Alkalinity	80-120	60-80

I've had nothing but great luck following the advice for maintaining my pool found here, but get a little nervous reading the warnings from my Raypak (heater) and Pentair about FC levels above 4 PPM causing "corrosion of metal components."

Can someone explain the differences, and why I shouldn't be worried about damaging my equipment with the higher FC levels suggested?

Thank you!

There’s one parameter missing that has one of the biggest impacts on your heater & other equipment more so than fc levels- PH.
Improperly balanced ph can definitely cause damage to heaters/equipment so keep that in check to ensure the longevity of your new equipment.