Below is a list of the most common pool chemicals you will use in and around your swimming pool. For clearer reference, we list the common names, general use, physical form, and active ingredient names for each entry.
pH Increaser (Sodium Carbonate, Soda Ash)
-Increases the pH of the pool water
-Most commonly found in powder form, but available in liquid
-Common Names: pH Up, pH Rise, pH Increaser
pH Decreaser (Sodium Bisulfate)
-Lowers the pH of the pool water rapidly while lowering alkalinity slightly.
-Most commonly found in powder form, but available in liquid
-Common Names: pH Down, pH Decreaser
Swimming pools have filtration systems that remove debris and particles from the water. But sanitation of the pool water requires chemicals and frequent testing. The Smiths use “hard water” from their own well to fill the swimming pool. It is called “hard” because it contains ions that combine with soap and form a scum that makes ithard to wash with. The hard water is a factor that Christie had to consider when deciding which pool chemicals to use. Water with more than 100 ppm of calcium and magnesium ions is classified as hard water.
Often, pools reach excessive levels of cyanuric acid without the pool operatorʹs knowledge. This is because much of the powdered chlorine sold today contains cyanuric acid. If this type of chlorine isused over a long period of time the cyanuric level will become too high. Pool operators should check to see if the chlorine they are using contains cyanuric acid/stabilizer.