Owning a pool means enjoying endless summer fun—but only if you maintain it properly! If you're planning to handle your pool maintenance this year, understanding proper chemical usage is essential.
Adding incorrect chemicals, using excessive or insufficient amounts, or improperly mixing substances can harm your pool and lead to unsafe swimming conditions.
To keep your pool crystal clear and irritation-free, avoid introducing the following substances into the water.
1. Sunscreen & Perfumes: Unseen Pool Contaminants
You may not intentionally add sunscreen or perfume to your pool, but they often end up in the water anyway. When these products break down, they react with chlorine and other sanitizers, disrupting the pool’s pH balance.
Why it matters:
- A disrupted pH level can lead to skin and eye irritation for swimmers.
- Unbalanced water makes it harder for sanitizers to do their job effectively.
How to minimize contamination:
- Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before swimming.
- Shower before entering the pool to remove excess lotions and fragrances.
2. Excessive Chlorine or Bromine: More Isn’t Always Better
Chlorine and bromine are essential for maintaining a clean pool, but adding too much can be harmful.
Risks of overuse:
- Skin and eye irritation from overly acidic water.
- Increased risk of asthma symptoms or respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.
- Long-term damage to pool equipment and surfaces.
Best practice:
- Always test your water before adding chemicals.
- Follow recommended dosage guidelines rather than guessing.
3. Dangerous Combination: Chlorine & Acid
Mixing chlorine and acid is a major hazard that can produce toxic gases harmful to your health.
What to avoid:
- Never add chlorine and acid at the same time.
- Do not mix these chemicals in a separate container before adding them to the pool.
- Avoid adding pool shock right after adding acid.
Safe chemical handling tips:
- Test your water before adding any chemicals.
- Follow a schedule to add chemicals separately and safely.
Not So Sure About Pool Maintenance? Let the Experts Help!
Maintaining the perfect pool chemistry can be tricky, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Royal Pool & Spa in White Bear Lake, MN, we’ve been serving Twin Cities pool owners since 1988, ensuring their pools stay clean, safe, and ready for fun. Need professional help? Give us a call at 651-779-7606 or send us a message today. Let’s keep your pool safe and sparkling all season long!