Water Balance

pH is the measure of the acidity of the pool water.

If the pH of the pool water drifts to the low side of the scale, corrosion of pool surfaces and equipment can occur. If the pH drifts to the high side, scaling, deposits, and cloudy water can occur. The pH of the pool should be tested and adjusted on a weekly basis.

Total Alkalinity

To prevent pH from “drifting” or “bouncing,” the proper amount of acid buffers — or total alkalinity (TA) — must be maintained in the pool. Test weekly to maintain TA of 125 – 150 ppm. Low TA can result in pH bounce and fluctuations, as well as corrosiveness. High TA can also cause pH to bounce and the possibility of cloudy water and scaling.

Calcium Hardness

Calcium hardness is the amount of dissolved calcium in the pool water. Low calcium hardness levels can cause plaster finish etching and shorten the life of vinyl liners. Use a pool hardness treatment to increase low calcium hardness levels.

High calcium levels can result in calcium deposits on pool surfaces and equipment.

If the levels are exceedingly high — in excess of 450 ppm — take a sample of your fill water (water used to fill the pool) to your SUN Dealer for analysis. You may need to partially drain your pool to resolve the problem, but your Dealer will advise you of the best method.

Metals

There should not be any metals present in the pool water. Metals can cause staining and cause the pool water to be discolored. Your professional SUN Dealer can test your pool water for the presence of metals, including copper, iron and manganese.

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)

TDS is the measure of all dissolved materials in the pool water. High TDS levels can cause cloudy water and greatly reduce the effectiveness of any pool care maintenance products. 

As with all problems you may encounter, bring your water in for testing and your SUN dealer will advise you of the best solution.

Note:  Always follow label directions when adding any pool maintenance products to the pool. Never mix products together. If you’re not sure how products are to be used, contact your SUN Dealer for expert advice.