Pool and Spa maintenance has many different notions; including a few statements regarding various water care, and whether they work or not. Some of these notions you will hear are true, but many fall under the category – of myth. In this blog, we will present the facts of how pool maintenance is authentic in comparison to some of those common things you may hear that are myths.
MYTH NO. 1:
An Experienced Pool Technician can tell if the pool or spa water is good just by looking at it.
The reality is that some pool technicians will not take pool water and taste it to determine whether it is good or bad. However, they use four out of five senses before giving an assessment.
When using your eyesight, you can tell whether the water is clear or murky or if there are cracks, rust stains, calcium deposits, and anything on the pool walls. Using the sense of smell, you can determine if chlorine has a strong smell. If the smell is strange, it may be that the chlorine applied is either bad or combined. The sense of hearing can help determine if a standard filter and pump have a typical sound unless they hear abnormal sounds; it is evident that something is wrong. Finally, by using the sense of touch, you can determine if algae, limescale, or metals are sticking to a wall in the water.
MYTH NO. 2:
A Spa is a Small Pool
Is a pool anything that holds water? Let’s be clear: it may be valid with the spa, but it has different issues when it comes to hot water environments – whether it is a spa or a hot tub, it requires another type of maintenance. When dealing with high-temperature water at 104 degrees Fahrenheit, anything above is a health risk for pregnant women or young children.
Compared to a pool, a spa is much smaller, meaning smaller volumes of chemicals. Spas also have water flow that is not normal in a swimming pool. Don’t forget that water jets may be good for your back and muscles, but they can cause a problem regarding water testing and treatment. Water jets can raise the pH of a spa since it produces hydroxides (OH -) which drive the pH up. You have to be careful, which is usually not the case with normal pool water.
You see, just because a hot tub contains water like a pool, it is still a unique situation that needs to handle differently. So, this myth is debunked.
MYTH NO. 3:
Testing Supplies – A Commodity?
In some people’s opinion, test equipment is a commodity they buy according to price. However, there are differences between products like a chemical test, a test strip, or something digital.
What is the most accessible system to use? The bottom line is to use a testing system that is consistent and accurate. There are standard solutions from the lab that can confirm specific values and properties of the water that you can test to ensure your test kit is working correctly. But if you test the same water repeatedly with different results, it may be your test kit.
A vital aspect of a good test kit is its availability. Ensure that they are available at your local supplier. Remember, there can be shortages sometimes. Also, please don’t take a water sample from the pool steps; it is not a good place to take a water sample.
MYTH NO. 4
Test Strips – As Long as You Get Them Wet…
Here is the breakdown – all instructions for test strips can vary. Depending on the brand name, you must follow the instructions to ensure an accurate result. So, dismiss the myth with the others.
MYTH NO. 5:
Water Sample – Any Location Will Do.
The best way is to collect a water sample by going below the surface to the elbow for more accurate results. Don’t collect or test the water on the surface. Sunlight can penetrate the water 4 to 6 inches deep, affecting the chemistry and causing false readings. Also, taking a sample from the return line is not good since it may have concentrated amounts of chemicals that can give an erroneous result.
Do not use fluorescent light to compare colors; it is the worst kind of lighting to use when comparing colors. Instead, hold the strips, vials, or comparator at eye level. Avoid wearing sunglasses since the lenses have a degree of polarization and can change the light spectrum.
Lastly, testing indoor and outdoor pools are not the same. While indoors, the best is to go outside or to a window for a more accurate reading.
Platinum Pools makes backyard dreams come true. With custom-designed pools and surrounding areas, technologically advanced equipment, beautiful materials, and exceptional craftsmanship, we make sure to turn that area into a special, quality pool environment that brings your family memories and happiness. Visit our website for more information about our services and ask for a free quote.