WATER BALANCE
The balance of your pool water is no less critical because you have installed a salt
chlorinator. All the parameters relating to water balance in Pool and Spa water must be
constantly checked and adjusted.
We strongly recommend you seek advice from a pool professional regarding the balancing
of water for your pool. A correctly balanced pool will protect it and the equipment from
chemical damage and ensure bathers are swimming in clean clear healthy pool water.
pH
A high pH will reduce the effectiveness of chlorine, potentially cause scale on both the pool
and the equipment, and irritate bathers. A low pH may cause the water to become
corrosive, damaging the pool interior finish, equipment (heat exchangers especially) and
also irritate bathers. Each pool finish and type has a specific range in which the pH should
remain. Generally a pH of between 7.2 – 7.6 is suitable for most pool types, however those
requiring a higher pH will also require a higher chlorine residual. (Consult with your pool
shop)
TOTAL ALKALINITY
The total alkalinity is a measurement of all the alkalis in your pool water, (Carbonates,
Bicarbonates and Hydroxides). When adjusted within the accepted levels, T.A. acts as a
pH buffer, resisting changes to the pH level. The recommended T.A. level of your pool may
vary from 80ppm – 120ppm depending on the pool finish, consult with a pool water
professional for advice on the recommended range for your pool.
CALCIUM HARDNESS
The hardness of your pool water is very important in controlling scale and the corrosive
effects of water. A low calcium level may cause pool water to become corrosive even if the
pH is within its recommended range. A sign of this is brown stains on the pool finish and in
adjoining Spas especially. This is metal staining, the source of which is usually the heater.
A high calcium level may cause pool water to deposit scale, even if the pH is within its
recommended range. The salt chlorinator cell may require very frequent cleaning and
scale may deposit on pool finish and equipment. Generally a level of 100ppm – 200ppm is
recommended. Consult with your pool builder or pool shop for specific advice on the
correct level for your pool.
SALT LEVEL
The salt level in pool water is usually approximated either by measuring the conductivity of
the water, or by using a test strip or reagent kit. Sometimes also referred to as T.D.S. Total
Dissolved Solids, or salinity, which while technically slightly different are all close enough
approximations for the range used in pool water. With a salt chlorinator, it is essential to
have approximately the correct amount of salt in the water to achieve the conductivity
required for the chlorine cell to work efficiently.
Pool Lab recommend using regular pool salt (Sodium Chloride).
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