Swimming Pool Chemical Tips

• Pools stay sparkling clean with the help of chemicals.Pool image by apeschi from Fotolia.com
  
  Adding chemicals to your pool keeps it clean and prevents bacteria from forming. Although it is an essential task, adding chemicals is quite challenging as it requires precise measurements and calculations. If you implement help from the store and use common sense, however, adding chemicals is simple.
  
  

Test Your Pool's pH

• According to the Pool People USA website, once you determine the pH of your pool, you will know what chemicals to add. The recommended pH for a pool is between 7.2 and 7.6. A healthy pH level helps the chemicals to properly disinfect your pool, retards corrosion and prevents scale from forming. If the pH is too low, add soda ash or sodium carbonate and bicarbonate to raise the levels. If your pH is too high, add muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate to lower it and make it more acidic. Each product has instructions on its label as to how much to add to the water as it varies depending upon how much water is in your pool.
  
  

Keep Your Water Circulating

• Pool chemicals tend to work much better in water that circulates. Not only does it help the chemicals to mix, but it also removes debris as well. Stagnate water creates a breeding ground for bacteria and other microorganisms you do not want inhabiting your pool. Skimmers and vacuums help to circulate the water. Although you don't need to apply the skimmers and vacuums to the pool on a daily basis, use them at least once a week. You will likely find circulating your water often and on a routine basis results in a lower amount of chemicals to add to the water.
  
  

Practice Safe Handling

• Although chlorine in the pool is relatively safe since it is diluted, chlorine straight from the container s quite dangerous, states the Environmental Protection Agency. Therefore, handling the chemicals in a safe way is important. Coming in direct contact with undiluted pool chemicals can cause breathing problems and can burn your eyes and skin. If the chemicals are ingested, they can burn your throat and even cause death. Always wear gloves, a mask and goggles when working with chemicals and adding them to your pool. Moreover, always read the label on the chemicals before you use them to ensure you are using them in the safest ways possible. Always keep children away from the chemicals, and only add the chemicals to the pool around others if they are wearing protective gear as well.