Maintaining the proper balance of chemicals in a swimming pool is essential for the health and safety of swimmers, as well as the longevity of the pool itself. Pool contractors, also known as pool service technicians, are responsible for ensuring that pools are properly maintained and balanced through regular chemical treatments. Here is an overview of the main chemicals used in pool balancing and why it is best to employ a professional to handle this task.

Chlorine is the most commonly used chemical for disinfecting pools. It is added to the water in the form of tablets, granules, or liquid, and is responsible for killing bacteria and other contaminants that can make swimmers sick. If the chlorine level is too low, the pool may become contaminated, while if it is too high, it can cause irritation to swimmers' eyes and skin. A professional pool contractor will have the knowledge and experience to properly test and adjust the chlorine levels in a pool to ensure that they are within the proper range.

pH is a measure of the acidity or basicity of the water in the pool. If the pH is too high, the water may become cloudy and scale may build up on the pool's surfaces. If the pH is too low, the water may become corrosive and damage the pool's equipment and surfaces. Pool service technicians employ specialised equipment and chemicals to accurately measure and adjust the pH of the pool water to ensure it is within the proper range.

Total alkalinity (TA) refers to the amount of alkaline substances in the water. It is important to maintain the proper total alkalinity level, as it helps to buffer the pH and prevent rapid fluctuations. If the total alkalinity is too low, the pH may fluctuate easily, while if it is too high, the water may become cloudy and scale may build up on surfaces.

Another factor is calcium hardness, which refers to the amount of calcium in the water. Calcium is necessary for the proper functioning of pool equipment and for the maintenance of pool surfaces. If the calcium hardness is too low, the water may become corrosive and damage pool equipment and surfaces. If it is too high, scale may build up on surfaces and the water may become cloudy. A qualified pool contractor has the ability to accurately measure and adjust the TA levels and calcium hardness of the pool water to ensure it is within the proper range for proper functioning.

There are countless more considerations for this seemingly simple task; maintaining cyanuric acid (CYA) levels to stabilise chlorine concentration in outdoor pools, treating specific issues, such as algae blooms or metal stains and more. With all of this to consider, the best course of action for pool chemical maintenance will always be enlisting the help of your local pool service technician. For more info about pool chemicals, contact a local company.