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The most popular method of cleaning pool water is the use of chlorine. Available in either liquid or solid, chalky tabs, chlorine keeps the pool water sanitary and healthy for swimming. Chlorine should be inserted into one of the pool deck filters so it may circulate through the master pump and be returned to the pool through the water jets.
It is important to keep the water's chlorine content balanced. This can be done by testing the pH level of the water. Use a water testing kit -- these are sold at swimming pool supply stores -- to measure the pH level. For chlorine to be its most effective, the pH level must be above 8.0. -
The chemicals used to clean a pool will affect the alkali content of the water and, as a result, the clarity of the water. The same kit used to test pH will also test for alkali. It is important to maintain a level between 80-110 parts per million. Low alkalinity will lead to more corrosive water. This will lead to aggressive rusting of metal parts and potential skin irritation. High alkalinity will lead the cloudy water.
Proper alkalinity affects the pH balance of the pool and the ability of chemicals to work. Chemicals can be used to raise and lower alkalinity of pool water. -
Algae spores can be blown into a pool from any number of sources. The growth of algae, due to high humidity, extended periods of sunlight and poor water circulation, creates an unhealthy and unappealing swimming pool. Algae can also form when pH levels are too low.
Sanitizer alone will not kill off algae. Special potassium-based algaecides will remove the carbon dioxide content -- algae is a plant cell which uses photosynthesis and relies on carbon dioxide to survive -- from the water and kill off the algae.
