Are you tired of constantly trying to keep your pool water clean and crystal clear? Are you tired of the costs and time you have to spend on it?
We at Poolstark.de know that keeping a pool clean is not easy, especially if you don't know exactly what to do.
But we have the solution for you! Our comprehensive pool water parameters guide will show you how to check and correct your water parameters to achieve crystal clear water.
And the best part is that you will save time and money! You will never have to worry about green water or the annoying smell of chlorine again.
Imagine how great it would be to be able to enjoy your pool at any time without having to worry about maintenance or cleaning. You can concentrate on what's important - relaxation and fun in your own garden pool.
Don't hesitate any longer and read our comprehensive guide on how to properly manage your pool's water parameters.
You will be amazed at how easy and effective it is to have clean and hygienic water in your pool.
At a glance
- What are the most important pool water parameters?
- Problems caused by poor water values
- How are pool water values measured?
- Which values are important in a chlorine pool and which are important in a saltwater pool?
- Pool water values explained
- Spring: Put the pool back into use
- Pool water green after vacation
- Pool dosing system for automatic water care
What are the most important pool water values?
To ensure that the pool water remains hygienic and crystal clear, it is important to regularly check the water quality. There are a number of important pool water values that must be measured and controlled. This article presents the most important water values:
- pH value: The pH value is a measure of the acidity of the water and influences the effectiveness of the disinfectants. The optimal pH value for pool water is between 7.0 and 7.4, as this corresponds to the pH value of the human eye and mucous membranes.
- Chlorine value: Chlorine is the most important disinfectant for pools and kills bacteria, viruses and other germs. The chlorine level should be between 0.5 and 1.5 ppm.
- Cyanuric Acid Value: Cyanuric acid is a chlorine stabilizer that prevents sunlight from breaking down chlorine. The recommended cyanic acid level is between 30 and 50 ppm.
- Redox value: The redox value measures the oxidation and reduction processes in the water and is an indicator of the effectiveness of the disinfectants. The optimal redox value for pool water is between 650 and 750 mV.
- Alkalinity: Alkalinity is a measure of the content of carbonates and bicarbonates in the water and influences the pH value. The recommended alkalinity level is between 80 and 120 ppm.
By regularly measuring and checking these important water parameters, you can ensure that your pool remains hygienic and clean and that you can enjoy swimming and relaxing in your own pool.
Problems caused by poor water values
Poor pool water parameters can lead to a variety of problems that spoil the swimming experience and can even lead to health risks.
Green water is a common problem when water levels are poor, especially when the chlorine level is too low. This green water is created by the proliferation of algae that can thrive in an oxygen-rich environment. Aside from making green water look unappealing, algae can also cause slippery pool surfaces, meaning an increased risk of falls.
Another problem with poor water values is unhygienic water. Insufficient disinfection of the water can lead to a proliferation of bacteria and viruses, which can pose a threat to the health of bathers. If the pH value is too low, the effectiveness of the disinfectant can be reduced, which leads to an increased proliferation of bacteria and viruses.
Limescale deposits can also be a problem if the water values are poor. If the pH value is too high, increased limescale deposits can occur on the pool walls, floors and fixtures. These deposits can be difficult to remove and can seriously affect the appearance of the pool.
Finally, too low a pH value can also lead to corrosion on pool components such as pumps, filters and heaters. This can result in significant repair costs and shorten the life of these components.
It is therefore important to regularly monitor the water quality in the pool and take measures if necessary to avoid problems. Proper water disinfection and treatment is the key to a clean, safe and enjoyable swimming experience in your own pool.
Product tip: Battery pool robot Zodiac Freerider and battery pool robot Dolphin Liberty 400
How are pool water values measured?
Measuring pool water values is an important step in water care and treatment. There are different ways to measure water values.
The easiest method is manual measurement with test strips. The test strip must be immersed in the water for a few seconds and then the color change must be compared with a color scale. However, this method is not very accurate and may produce unclear results.
A more accurate method is to use an electronic pool tester. A water sample is placed in the device, which then automatically measures and displays the various water values.
An example of such an electronic pool tester is the Poollab 2.0 . This tester measures pH, free and combined chlorine, alkalinity, cyanuric acid and calcium hardness and shows the results digitally on a display. This method is very accurate and allows multiple measurements to be taken at the same time.
Another advantage of electronic pool testers is that they have a memory function that allows readings to be logged and monitored over a longer period of time. This means you can quickly and easily determine whether the water values have changed over time and act accordingly.
Ultimately, the choice of measurement method depends on individual needs and requirements. If you value precise measurements and quick evaluation of the measurement results, you should use electronic pool testers.
Which values are important in a chlorine pool and which are important in a saltwater pool?
For a pool with normal, chlorinated water, the most important water parameters are the pH value and the chlorine content.
The pH value should be in the range of 7.0 to 7.4 to ensure optimal effectiveness of the chlorine and to avoid skin and eye irritation.
Chlorine levels should be between 1 and 3 ppm (parts per million) to ensure adequate disinfection and prevent the growth of algae and bacteria.
For a saltwater pool, the most important water parameters are also the pH value and the salinity.
The pH value should be in the range of 7.0 to 7.4 to ensure optimal effectiveness of the salt electrolysis system and to avoid skin and eye irritation.
The salt content should be between 3,000 and 4,000 ppm to ensure sufficient conductivity for the salt electrolysis system.
Unlike a chlorinated pool, the salt water pool system is powered by salt electrolysis, which produces chlorine from the salt in the water. This eliminates the need for the pool owner to add chlorine manually, providing a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative.
However, it is important to note that the salt in the water must be checked regularly to ensure that the salt level remains in the optimal range and that the salt electrolysis system is functioning properly.
Additionally, salt levels in pool water can change due to evaporation or water addition, requiring regular checks and adjustments to maintain water quality.
Recommended: Salt electrolysis system Automatic AS5
Pool water values explained
PH value
The pH value is an important parameter for the water quality in the pool. It provides information about the acidity of the water.
The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with pH 7 being neutral.
If the pH is above 7, the water is alkaline; If it is below 7, the water is acidic.
The optimal pH value for pool water is 7.4, as this corresponds to the pH value of the human eye and mucous membranes. A pH value of 7.4 also results in good chlorine disinfection.
A pH value that is too low can lead to aggressive water that damages the mechanical components of the pool. It can also cause irritation to the eyes and mucous membranes as well as damage to the pool liner.
Too high a pH value can lead to poorer chlorine disinfection, cause skin irritation, limescale precipitation and cloudiness.
To lower the pH, sodium bisulfate can be used. Sodium carbonate can be used to increase the pH value.
It is important to regularly check the pH of the pool water and adjust it if necessary. This can be done by using pH test strips or a pH tester.
Another important measure for maintaining the pH value is the use of buffer solutions. These solutions help keep the pH stable and minimize fluctuations.
By regularly checking and maintaining the pH level, you can ensure that the pool water remains in optimal condition and prevent health problems.
Chlorine value
The chlorine value of the pool water is an important parameter for water quality. Chlorine is a disinfectant that kills bacteria, viruses and other contaminants in water. The optimal chlorine level for pool water is between 0.5 and 1.5 ppm (mg/l). If the chlorine level is too low, bacteria can multiply and the water becomes cloudy. If the chlorine level is too high, it can cause skin irritation, burning eyes and an unpleasant smell.
There are two types of chlorine compounds: organic chlorine and inorganic chlorine. Organic chlorine such as trichloroisocyanuric acid and dichloroisocyanuric acid is suitable for weekly chlorination and dissolves quickly. Inorganic chlorine such as calcium hypochlorite and sodium hypochlorite is suitable for daily and shock chlorination and works faster than organic chlorine.
Free chlorine is the chlorine that is available in water and kills pollutants. Combined chlorine (also called chloramines) is formed when free chlorine reacts with organic substances such as sweat, urine and skin particles. Combined chlorine is ineffective and can cause eye and mucous membrane irritation. To reduce combined chlorine, the pool must be shock chlorinated with calcium hypochlorite to convert the combined chlorine into free chlorine.
To measure the chlorine level of pool water, a test kit or electronic pool tester is used. Most kits measure free chlorine, but to measure combined chlorine you must measure total chlorine. Total chlorine is the sum of free and combined chlorine.
An electronic pool tester like Poollab 2.0 measures both the free chlorine content and the total chlorine content.
In order to maintain the chlorine level of the pool water, the pool must be chlorinated regularly. Chlorine consumption depends on various factors, such as bathing frequency, water temperature and sunlight.
A chlorine value that is too low can lead to inadequate disinfection of the pool water and thus endanger the health of bathers. Bacteria, viruses and other germs can multiply unhindered and cause infections. However, excessive chlorine levels can cause skin irritation, eye irritation and breathing difficulties.
If the chlorine level is too low, you can take the following measures:
- Increase the addition of chlorine. Regular checking of chlorine levels is important to ensure that levels remain within the optimal range.
- Check the pH. A pH value outside the optimal range can affect the effectiveness of the chlorine. A pH value of 7.4 is ideal.
- Check the condition of the filter. A dirty filter can reduce the effectiveness of the chlorine treatment.
If the chlorine level is too high, you can take the following measures:
- Dilute the water. Add fresh water to reduce chlorine levels.
- Use a chlorine reducer. These products are commercially available and can reduce chlorine levels.
- Check the pH. A pH value outside the optimal range can affect the effectiveness of the chlorine. A pH value of 7.4 is ideal.
- Leave the pool unused for a while. The choir content will decrease over time if the pool is not in use.
In any case, it is important to regularly check the chlorine level and ensure that it remains within the optimal range.
Redox value
The redox value is a measure of the oxidation and reduction potential of the pool water.
It indicates how many positive and negative ions are present in the water and whether the water is oxidizing or reducing. The optimal redox value for pool water is between 650 and 750 mV.
The redox value therefore indicates the extent to which the water is able to break down organic contaminants.
A redox value that is too low (below 600 mV) means that the water is reducing and therefore germs and bacteria cannot be killed sufficiently. This can lead to health problems such as skin and eye irritation. To increase the redox value, you can treat the pool water with an oxidizing agent such as hydrogen peroxide or active oxygen.
A redox value that is too high (over 800 mV) means that the water is oxidizing and can therefore also attack healthy cells in the body. This can cause irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes as well as skin rashes. To reduce the redox value, you can treat the pool water with a reducing agent such as sodium thiosulphate.
To measure the redox value of the pool water, you need a redox meter or a test kit. By regularly checking the redox value and taking measures to keep the value within the optimal range if necessary, you can ensure that the pool water remains hygienic and healthy.
Cyanoic acid value
The cyanuric acid value, also known as the stabilizer value, is a measure of the level of cyanuric acid in the pool water. Cyanuric acid is an important component in pool care as it stabilizes the chlorine and protects it from degradation by UV rays. The recommended cyanuric acid level is between 30 and 50 ppm (mg/L).
If the cyanuric acid level is too low, the chlorine will break down more quickly, resulting in more chlorine consumption and higher costs. However, if the cyanuric acid value is too high, it can lead to chlorine blockage, the chlorine becomes ineffective and can no longer fight bacteria and algae.
Too high a level of cyanuric acid can also lead to health problems as it increases the pH of the water and can cause eye and skin irritation. Too low cyanuric acid levels can also cause health problems as it can lead to an overdose of chlorine, which can cause breathing problems and skin irritation.
If the cyanuric acid level is too low, you should add cyanuric acid to the pool water. If the value is too high, you should dilute the water to lower the value. One way to lower cyanuric acid levels is to dilute the water by partially draining it from the pool and replacing it with fresh water. Another option is to use special products to lower cyanuric acid levels.
It is important to check the cyanuric acid level regularly and, if necessary, take measures to keep the level within the optimal range. This not only increases the effectiveness of pool maintenance, but also ensures the health and safety of bathers.
TA value (alkalinity)
The TA value stands for the total alkalinity value of the pool water. It measures the total alkalinity content in the pool water and is an important indicator of water quality.
Alkalinity indicates how much buffering capacity the water has to compensate for changes in pH.
The optimal TA value for pool water is between 80 and 120 ppm (mg/l).
Too low alkalinity can cause the pH to become unstable and change rapidly. Too high an alkalinity can cause the pH to remain too high.
Too low alkalinity can have the following health consequences:
- Eye and skin irritation
- Corrosion of metal parts in the pool
- Damage to the pool liner
- rapid pH value fluctuations
To increase alkalinity, you can use sodium bicarbonate or alkalinity regulators. To lower alkalinity, you can use dilute hydrochloric acid or a pH reducer.
Too high alkalinity can have the following health consequences:
- Cloudiness of the pool water
- Damage to the pool liner
- Problems adjusting pH
Spring: Put the pool back into use
Spring is here and with it the anticipation of swimming in your own pool. But before that happens, the pool has to wake up from hibernation and be put back into operation. A task that is often underestimated and where a lot of things can go wrong.
This is also the case with my neighbor, who makes the same mistake every year. He starts the pump, fills the pool with water and generously throws chlorine into the pool to disinfect it. A few days later he notices that the water has turned green and cloudy and that there is an unpleasant smell in the air.
What happened?
Adding chlorine alone does not automatically make the water clean. On the contrary, if the pH value is incorrect, the chlorine becomes ineffective. In addition, the pump must be cleaned before filling the pool, as dirt and debris can collect in it during the winter break.
So my neighbor had done everything wrong and now had to deal with a green broth. But he wouldn't be my neighbor if he hadn't also found a solution.
He sought help from a pool professional and learned the importance of measuring and adjusting pH before adding chlorine. He was also shown how to properly clean the pump and how to change the filter media.
Since then, my neighbor has no longer had any problems with his pool and can devote himself fully to swimming pleasure again.
So, dear pool owners, when you wake your pool from hibernation, remember: measure, adjust, clean - then nothing will stand in the way of carefree swimming fun.
So how can it be better?
In the fall, before the pool is winterized, it is important to treat the water and prepare it for winter. If you take these steps in the fall, you can save a lot of time and work in the spring.
One way to prepare the water for winter is to add winter care products. These help keep the water clean and prevent algae formation. A thorough cleaning of the pool and the filter system is also important in autumn.
When spring comes, the pool needs to be thoroughly cleaned before putting it back into use. This includes removing leaves and dirt, cleaning the filter system and filling the pool with fresh water.
To ensure that the water is of good quality in spring, you should carry out a water analysis and check the water parameters. If the water values are not optimal, appropriate measures must be taken to improve them.
Another tip for good water quality in spring is to use pool covers in fall and winter. A good cover protects the water from pollution and prevents bugs and leaves from entering the pool.
Careful preparation in the fall and thorough cleaning in the spring are the key to a clean and safe pool. With regular maintenance and checking the water quality, the pool can be enjoyed all year round.
Pool water green after vacation
It's a familiar situation: you come back from vacation and your pool water has turned green. This is a sign that algae has formed and the water is no longer sufficiently disinfected. A quick and effective solution to make the water clear and clean again is shock chlorination.
Shock chlorination is a high dose of chlorine added to pool water to kill bacteria, viruses and algae and recycle the water. It is important to check the pH of the water before shock chlorination, as a pH outside the optimal range can reduce the effectiveness of the chlorine treatment.
Typically, it is recommended to perform shock chlorination when the chlorine level in the pool water is below 1 ppm (mg/L). The exact amount of chlorine needed for shock chlorination depends on the size of the pool and the level of contamination. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and not use more chlorine than recommended.
After shock chlorination, it is advisable not to use the pool for at least 24 hours and to test the water regularly to ensure that chlorine levels remain within the recommended range. It is also advisable to check the pH of the water regularly and adjust it if necessary.
Shock chlorination is a quick and effective way to treat green pool water after vacation. However, it is important to conduct regular water analysis and keep the water clean and healthy to avoid algae formation and other problems.
Pool dosing system for automatic water care
When it comes to automatic water care for your pool, a Bayrol dosing system is a highly recommended solution. Bayrol's dosing systems offer an effective method for cleaning and maintaining pool water.
There are two different variants: the Bayrol Automatic Chlorine pH dosing system and the salt electrolysis system Automatic Salt AS5 as a dosing system.
The chlorine pH dosing system is suitable for normal water and ensures that the pH value and chlorine content in the pool are automatically maintained at an optimal level. The Automatic Salt dosing system, on the other hand, is specifically designed for salty water, which is becoming increasingly popular. With this dosing system, the salt in the water is automatically converted into chlorine, which is a particularly gentle and natural way of pool care.
Both systems are easy to use and ensure that the pool water is always in optimal condition. The dosing system is equipped with an automatic control that measures the pH value and chlorine content of the water and regulates them automatically if necessary. This ensures optimal water quality, which is of great importance for both bathing pleasure and the longevity of the pool equipment.
With a Bayrol dosing system, every pool owner can be sure that their pool water is always in excellent condition and the pool is always ready for swimming.
Conclusion
In summary, the water quality of a pool is crucial to the health and well-being of bathers.
Regular water analyzes and modern water treatment are essential to ensure optimal water hygiene.
The pH value and the chlorine content play a particularly important role.
The pH value should be 7.4 to achieve good chlorine disinfection and avoid skin irritation.
The chlorine level should be checked regularly to ensure optimal disinfection effectiveness.
Overdosing on chlorine can cause unpleasant odors and irritation, while too little chlorine can affect water quality and pose a health risk.
With proper dosage and regular checks, bathers can relax and enjoy the swimming experience in a clean and safe pool.