Water Analysis Test your pool's water two to three times a week to create an optimum swim environment for you and your guests and ensure a long life for your pool. Roll up your sleeves and reach down until the water is at your elbow for the best water sample (This should be around 18 inches). A usable sample should include 8 ounces of water. You can trap it in any sample bottle or clean, plastic container. When conducting your own two-to-three-times weekly water analysis, keep in mind that there are specific ranges for every test.
Test Range
pH | 7.2 – 7.6 | Total Alkalinity | 120-150 ppm* | Calcium Hardness | 175-225 ppm* (Vinyl Pools) | Free Chlorine | 1-3 ppm* | Free Bromine | 3-5 ppm* | Metals: Copper | 0 ppm* | Metals: Iron | 0 ppm* |
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The most important factor to your water balance is the pH. The pH sets the tone for your water and keeps things safe and inviting to your family and friends.
Total Alkalinity, or TA, refers to the alkaline materials dissolved in the pool water. Your water’s ability to resist pH changes depends on the alkaline material. Low TA can cause the pH to “bounce” in and out of range. High TA makes it difficult to adjust the pH as needed.
Calcium Hardness denotes the amount of dissolved minerals (mostly calcium carbonate) in your water. Low Calcium Hardness can corrode equipment or cause etching in the plaster finish. High levels can lead to cloudy water or scaling.
Deliver a water sample to your pool care professional once a month, or whenever you have questions about water levels. They will analyze the water and provide you with the necessary instruction to ensure proper water balance and chlorination levels in your pool.
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