Pool Guide

A good chemical balance

The secret of clear water lies above all in its chemical balance. Unbalanced water can become cloudy, encourage the proliferation of algae and cause irritation to the skin and eyes. Here are the main parameters to monitor:

• pH: Ideally between 7.2 and 7.6. A pH that is too low makes the water aggressive and corrodes equipment, while a pH that is too high reduces the effectiveness of chemical treatments.
• Alkalinity: It should be between 80 and 120 mg/L. Well-adjusted alkalinity stabilises the pH and prevents sudden changes.
• Chlorine: Maintain a level of between 1 and 3 mg/L for optimal disinfection. Too little chlorine encourages bacteria and algae, while too much chlorine can cause irritation.
• The stabiliser: Essential for chlorine-treated pools, it protects the chlorine from UV-induced evaporation. The level must not exceed 50 mg/L, otherwise the effectiveness of the chlorine will be reduced.

To monitor these parameters, use test strips, a photometer or an electronic tester. Check the levels at least once a week and adjust them accordingly.

Effective filtration

Filtration plays a vital role in water quality. Without continuous circulation and a clean filter, even the best chemical treatments will be ineffective. Here are the steps to follow to guarantee optimal filtration:

• Filtration time: It must be adapted to the temperature of the water. A simple rule: divide the temperature by two. For example, for water at 28°C, the filtration should operate 14 hours a day. Cleaning the filter: whether it is a sand, cartridge or diatom filter, it must be maintained regularly. A dirty filter reduces water circulation and encourages the growth of algae.
• Checking the skimmers and the pump: Skimmers trap floating impurities and must be emptied frequently. The pump must work properly to ensure good circulation.

Also remember to check the pressure gauge on the filter. If the pressure increases too much, it means that the filter is saturated and needs to be cleaned.

Regular cleaning

Manual and mechanical cleaning of the pool is essential to prevent the accumulation of dirt and micro-organisms. Here are the essential steps:

• Using a net: Use a net every day to remove leaves, insects and other floating impurities.
• Brushing the sides: Brush the sides and bottom of the pool at least once a week to remove limescale deposits and algae.
• Using a robot cleaner: An automatic robot or a vacuum cleaner can be used to remove dirt deposited on the bottom of the pool.

Regular maintenance prevents algae and bacteria from taking hold, thus limiting the use of chemicals. In addition to basic treatments, there are preventive products to improve water quality and avoid common problems:

• Anti-algae: Add a preventive anti-algae product every week to prevent their appearance.
• Flocculant: It helps to group together the fine particles that pass through the filter, making the water clearer.
• pH regulators: In the event of frequent pH variations, an automatic regulator can make management easier.

Preventing common problems

Even with rigorous maintenance, certain problems can arise. Here's how to avoid them:

Green water

Often caused by a lack of chlorine or insufficient filtration. Carry out a shock chlorination, scrub the walls and leave the filtration running continuously until the algae disappears.

Cloudy water

This may be due to a chemical imbalance or a dirty filter. Check the pH and alkalinity, clean the filter and add a flocculant if necessary.

Foam

Generally caused by an excess of anti-algae or incompatible products. Check the dosages and partially replace the water.

Maintain an effective routine!

Crystal-clear water is not achieved by chance, but thanks to a well-followed maintenance routine. Between chemical balance, filtration and cleaning, each element plays a key role in the quality of the water. By adopting good habits and regularly monitoring your pool, you can enjoy a clean, pleasant and worry-free pool all year round.