What Causes an Ammonia "Outbreak"?

[FattyLumpkin]

Hi all - I've seen this referred to in the traditional maintenance forums, and I'm just curious what conditions can lead to this occurring? It seems like a *very* painful experience when it occurs, so I'm just trying to understand the chemistry of it.

Thanks!

 

[pooldv]

The most common thing is letting FC drop below minimum and bacteria convert CYA into ammonia. This tends to happen during cooler temps more frequently. A similar thing happens when opening pools and the antifreeze can have the same effect. Or people or varmints can also add ammonia.

 

[JoyfulNoise]

See here -

Degradation of Cyanuric Acid (CYA))

 

[FattyLumpkin]

See here -

Degradation of Cyanuric Acid (CYA))

Thank you. Awesome thread. And holy guacamole is chem geek smart.

 

[FattyLumpkin]

Thank you. Awesome thread. And holy guacamole is chem geek smart.

Guacamole? I'll watch my language! [emoji3]

 

[pooldv]

Mmm, I like guacamole.

Yes, chem geek is definitely smart, lots of book learnin and science-y stuff!

 

[tim5055]

And holy guacamole is chem geek smart.

Yes, Richard (Chem Geek) is very smart.

I think Matt is the only one around here who can read his posts and understand all of it....

 

[LFrankow]

Going to have to re read that one a few times