Every swimming pool requires a precise chemical equilibrium. Keeping your water balanced preserves plaster finishes, prevents metal corrosion in titanium heat pumps, protects swimmer skin and eyes, and guarantees clear water.
Master Water Chemistry Parameter Ranges
| Parameter | Standard Chlorine Pools | Saltwater (SWG) Pools | Testing Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free Chlorine (FC) | 2.0 – 5.0 ppm (or 7.5% of CYA) | 3.0 – 6.0 ppm | 2–3 times / week |
| Combined Chlorine (CC) | < 0.5 ppm | < 0.5 ppm | Weekly |
| pH Level | 7.4 – 7.6 | 7.4 – 7.6 | 2–3 times / week |
| Total Alkalinity (TA) | 80 – 110 ppm | 60 – 90 ppm | Weekly |
| Calcium Hardness (CH) | 250 – 350 ppm (Plaster) 150 – 250 ppm (Vinyl) | 250 – 350 ppm (Plaster) 150 – 250 ppm (Vinyl) | Monthly |
| Cyanuric Acid (CYA) | 30 – 50 ppm | 60 – 80 ppm | Monthly |
| Salinity (Salt) | N/A | 3,000 – 3,400 ppm | Monthly |
| LSI Saturation Index | -0.30 to +0.30 | -0.30 to +0.30 | Monthly |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I test pool chemistry parameters?
Test Free Chlorine and pH 2 to 3 times per week during swimming season. Test Total Alkalinity weekly. Test Calcium Hardness, Cyanuric Acid, and Salt levels monthly.
What is the absolute most critical chemical parameter?
pH and Free Chlorine are the two most critical parameters. If pH deviates outside 7.2–7.8, equipment corrodes or scales rapidly, and swimmer comfort plummets. If Free Chlorine drops to zero for even 12 hours, algae can bloom.