Among pool owners and swimmers, chlorine is a well-known sanitizer. It’s popular because it works and is an affordable option for many people, but it’s not the only effective cleaning agent out there. The pool-supply industry offers an abundance of pool chemicals beyond chlorine, each designed with a specific function in mind but all with the goal of providing you with a pristine swimming pool full of sparkling water.
Here’s a look at some chemical pool cleaners that can help you achieve superior results:
Algaecide: Algaecides come in a range of formulas, but their purpose is the same – to help you remove and prevent algae growth. No matter how diligent you are about using chlorine in your pool, you may still face unsightly algae growth. Different pools experience different types of algae – not to mention some are more stubborn than others and the particular strain you have may depend on where you live – so it’s important to address your specific algae problem with the correct algaecide. A mild solution may be all you require, or you might find yourself in need of a more aggressive, copper-based formula. Metal-free formulas are less likely to stain your pool, while a phosphate remover is meant to reduce phosphates in your water (a nutrient that algae feed on).
Algaecide: Algaecides come in a range of formulas, but their purpose is the same – to help you remove and prevent algae growth. No matter how diligent you are about using chlorine in your pool, you may still face unsightly algae growth. Different pools experience different types of algae – not to mention some are more stubborn than others and the particular strain you have may depend on where you live – so it’s important to address your specific algae problem with the correct algaecide. A mild solution may be all you require, or you might find yourself in need of a more aggressive, copper-based formula. Metal-free formulas are less likely to stain your pool, while a phosphate remover is meant to reduce phosphates in your water (a nutrient that algae feed on).
Pool balancers: You often hear of pH when it comes to pool maintenance. Achieving and sustaining the correct pH level for your pool is essential for any pool owner. To do this, you must know your pool’s capacity to calculate the amount of chemicals you need for it. The ideal pH range, 7.2-7.6 ppm, will reduce the likelihood of eye and skin irritation in swimmers and prevent damage to your pool supplies and equipment. Pool balancers work with sanitizers such as chlorine or bromine to help you achieve the ideal chemical levels for your pool. They can increase alkalinity, reduce calcium, stabilize chlorine from dissipating under the sun or neutralize chlorine if the existing level is too high.
Pool clarifiers and enzymes: These products are available in traditional and environmentally friendly formulas. They not only fight cloudy water but also help eliminate harmful bacteria and other contaminants that are too small for your filtration system to remove. Enzymes work naturally to control stains, while clarifiers clump variant particles together so they are large enough for your filter to catch.
With proper use of pool chemicals, over time you will find yourself less reliant on chlorine to keep your swimming pool clean. You also may need to vacuum and tend to your filter less, which leaves a lot more time for relaxing in the pool.
With proper use of pool chemicals, over time you will find yourself less reliant on chlorine to keep your swimming pool clean. You also may need to vacuum and tend to your filter less, which leaves a lot more time for relaxing in the pool.
