Swimming pools offer many advantages to property owners. They can add value and beauty to the home, and provide a recreational area for those who reside on the property. However, it is important to maintain a swimming pool appropriately. The property owner must vacuum the pool's bottom, and regularly clean its sides and surface. In addition, the proper pool chemicals must be utilized in order to maintain the water's cleanliness and prohibit the buildup of bacteria. Below are some chemicals a person should invest in if he or she owns a swimming pool:
Chlorine is an essential chemical that must be added at the beginning of the season during which it will be used. Chlorine will kill bacteria that has built up throughout the months the unit was not in use. Three to four gallons of chlorine must typically be added to the average model upon opening it for the season.
One must also use pH chemicals to keep the pool safe for use and balance the water's chemistry. Such products also prevent scaling along the surface of the unit's walls. Experts suggest that swimming water should have an average pH of between seven and eight. Kits can be purchased to test these levels from a local hardware store.
The use of a pH decreaser, such as sodium bisulfate is sometimes required if one discovers that the level of alkaline in the water is too high. If the alkaline levels are too low, a substance called sodium bicarbonate may be necessary. Those who are confused concerning this particular issue should ask a clerk in a chemical supply outlet for advice.
Algaecide is a type of chemical that eradicates all kinds of algae that grow in water. Such products are particularly helpful for pools that were not properly winterized at the end of the last season. High-quality chemicals of this type also remove any odor left behind from the algae.
When maintaining swimming pools, homeowners must frequently invest in bromine. This substance eliminates the buildup of bacteria and stops the growth of algae. Bromine is not used in traditional pools as often as it is in Jacuzzis or hot tubs. This is due to the fact that it can irritate the eyes and skin when used in cold water, but this does not typically occur when it is used in warm water. However, it may still be an appropriate choice, and this will largely depend on the area where the homeowner resides.
Most substances of this kind can be obtained in the form of tablets. These are typically approximately the size of a hockey puck, and can be placed directly into the skimmer basket of the unit. It is always important to adhere to the manufacturer's directions concerning any type of chemical. However, in most cases, 2-3 tablets will get the job done.
After adding pool chemicals, it is essential for homeowners to wash their hands with warm water and soap. A person should never touch his or her eyes after handling products of this type. If such contact occurs, it is wise to contact a poison control center at once. Following the steps outlined above will make the maintenance of such a unit easy for virtually any homeowner.
