What Ions Are Tested for in Pools?
Traditionally, owners of swimming pools must test for chlorine and for pH. However, swimming pool ionizers have made it necessary for some swimming pool owners to test for other ions. Ionizers sanitize pool water by running electrical current through silver, copper or zinc, eliminating the need for harsher chemicals. While ionizers are effective, it is essential to monitor ion concentrations in your swimming pool. Does this Spark an idea?
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pH Balance
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It is necessary to monitor the pH of your swimming pool. The pH of a solution is a measure of its acidity or alkalinity. By definition, pH is a measure of hydrogen ions that are present in a solution. Thus, a pH kit tests for hydrogen ions. A pH imbalance in your swimming pool can dry your skin, burn your eyes and nose and damage the pool.
Copper
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Some pool ionizers use copper to sanitize the water. An electrical current is passed through a copper coil, releasing copper ions in the water. These ions kill most microorganisms. However, an abundance of these ions can make the water green. Excess copper will also turn your hair and nails green and leave green stains in the pool. This condition must be treated with chlorine shock treatment or a chelating agent.
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Silver
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Silver is another metal used in pool ionizing systems. The ionizer passes a weak electrical current through silver, causing silver ions to be released into the water. Silver is a very effective antimicrobial agent. Excess silver can leave black stains on the pool. Excess silver ions also must be treated with chlorine shock treatment or a chelating agent.
Other Metals
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Occasionally, swimming pool ionizers use zinc rather than copper or silver. More often, zinc is used in combination with copper, silver or both. Excess zinc is typically not a problem. Manganese ions may be present if your pool was filled with well water rather than municipal tap water. Manganese ions can turn your pool's water purple or black. They may leave black stains on the walls of your pool.
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References
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