The Importance of Proper Pool Chemistry: Tips for Maintaining Your Pool with Calcium Hypochlorite
SJZ CHEM-PHARM CO., LTD. understands the importance of proper pool maintenance to ensure the safety and enjoyment of your family and friends. A key component in maintaining crystal-clear, bacteria-free pool water is using a reliable form of chlorine, such as calcium hypochlorite, to disinfect and control algae growth. However, it is also important to understand the effects of these chemicals on your pool chemistry, including the calcium hardness and CYA levels.
Calcium Hypochlorite and its Benefits
Calcium hypochlorite is a granular form of chlorine that is widely used for shock treatments, as well as regular maintenance, due to its effectiveness in killing harmful bacteria and sanitizing the pool water. It is readily available and relatively inexpensive, making it a popular choice for pool owners.
One benefit of using calcium hypochlorite is its ability to raise the calcium hardness levels, which is important for maintaining the structural integrity and lifespan of plaster, concrete or tile pool surfaces. Calcium hardness should be maintained between 200-400 ppm to prevent the leaching of calcium from the pool surfaces, which can lead to pitting and rough surfaces.
However, using calcium hypochlorite can also raise the CYA levels, which can impact the effectiveness of chlorine in killing bacteria and algae. Cyanuric acid (CYA) is a stabilizer that protects chlorine from being degraded by UV rays, but too much can result in reduced sanitizing power. CYA should be maintained between 30-50 ppm in outdoor pools, and up to 80 ppm in indoor pools.
Tips for Proper Use of Calcium Hypochlorite
Before using calcium hypochlorite, it is important to test your pool water chemistry and adjust as needed to ensure proper levels of pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness and CYA. Once the levels are within the recommended ranges, you can then proceed with adding the appropriate amount of calcium hypochlorite.
To determine the amount of calcium hypochlorite needed, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions based on the product potency and your pool size. As a general guideline, one pound of calcium hypochlorite can raise the chlorine level by 10 ppm in a 10,000-gallon pool. Be sure to add the granules to a bucket of water and dissolve before adding it to the pool to prevent staining or bleaching of pool surfaces.
It is also important to shock your pool with calcium hypochlorite on a regular basis to prevent buildup of bacteria and algae that can lead to cloudy or green pool water. Shocking should be done once a week during peak swim season, or as needed if the water becomes hazy or loses clarity. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and storage of calcium hypochlorite.
Maintaining proper pool chemistry, including using the right form of chlorine and monitoring levels of calcium hardness and CYA, is crucial to ensuring a clean and safe swimming pool. SJZ CHEM-PHARM CO., LTD. offers a range of high-quality chemicals for pool maintenance, including calcium hypochlorite, to keep your pool crystal-clear and sparkling. Contact us today for more information.