Above Ground Pool Water Treatment
Above-ground pools are different from pools set in concrete and plaster bases dug into the ground, with pumping systems incorporated into their frameworks. Most above-ground pools are spas or hot tubs, smaller pools that use less water but are still susceptible to contamination from microorganisms. If you own an above-ground pool, the water needs to be carefully treated to ensure it has the correct chemical levels for safe use. Does this Spark an idea?
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Pool pH
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Pool pH is a measurement of how acidic the water is. Optimal levels range between 7.2 and 7.6. This is high enough to kill many microorganisms in the water, while also helping chlorine to sanitize the water more thoroughly. If the pH levels are too high, chlorine will not be effective. Most spas and hot tubs come with test strips that can be used to test pH for quick treatments before use.
Treatment Chemicals
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Chlorine is the most common treatment chemical for above-ground pools. There are many chlorine options from which to choose. While in-ground pools typically have chlorine systems in their pumps that only require chlorine injections, spas and hot tubs generally require tablets, powders or liquid packets. The goal is always to adjust the pH level of the pool and bring chlorine levels to the proper amounts as indicated by the manufacturer.
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Shocking
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Chlorine shock treatments are used at certain times, such as when covering the pool for the end of the season in fall, or when treating a pool that has experienced frequent use in the summer. Shock treatments administer a large amount of chlorine to the pool for about a day to thoroughly sanitize it. The pool cannot be used during this time, and the water should be back to between 1 and 3 parts per million of chlorine before it is used again.
Ozone Treatments and Bromine
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Some above-ground pools use ozone generators to clean the water with the help of ozone gas. This does sanitize and remove odors, but typically a chemical treatment is needed in addition to the ozone. Chlorine is too strong in this case; most owners of ozone generators use bromine instead. Bromine is more effective in high-temperature water and is a popular alternative even in pools without ozone treatments.
Filtration
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Filters are very important for in-ground pools, and they are no less vital for the health of above-ground pools. Filters should be regularly checked and cleaned when necessary to keep the water clear of contaminants. Homeowners should check the condition of the filters and replace them when they wear out or break.
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References
- Photo Credit Pool image by mohamed salah eldin said from Fotolia.com
