Chemical Startup of a Newly Filled Pool
When adding chemicals, calculate the gallons of water in your pool and follow label directions for your pool type and size. Never mix different chemicals and always allow for complete circulation before re-testing. Follow directions on your test kit or bring us a water sample for testing and analysis.
While pool is filling, add a chelating, sequestering agent such as Metal Free. per label directions for initial dose. Thereafter, apply the suggested maintenance dose, especially when adding water.
When the pool is full and circulating, test the Total Alkalinity and adjust to 80 to 150 ppm. Sodium Bicarbonate raises the Total Alkalinity. Strategic additions of Muriatic Acid lowers. Most likely you will need to raise. If your test kit doesn’t supply a chart, we can tell you how much you need and how to add if you call us with your test kit readings.
After several hours, test the pH and adjust to between 7.4 and 7.6. An acid demand test will indicate how much acid is needed to lower the pH. A base demand test will indicate the amount of Soda Ash or Sodium Carbonate is needed to raise the pH. Again, if you don’t have these demand tests, call or come by and we will advise.
With the pH and Total Alkalinity balanced, superchlorintate or shock the pool using as much calcium hypochlorite as needed to raise the free chlorine level to at least 3.0 ppm. A general starting point is 1 pound of shock per 10,000 gallons. In a vinyl liner pool, dissolve the calcium hypochlorite in a bucket and pour in the pool. It is not necessary to pre-dissolve in a gunite or fiberglass pool. Just broadcast. Never pour shock thru the skimmer.
The next day, test and adjust the Total Hardness to 200 to 400 ppm. While it is difficult to lower, Calcium Carbonate raises. Again, we can advise on the amounts you need if necessary.
Algaecide 60 is next. Use a good 60% non-foaming, non-metallic algaecide per label directions for an initial dose. Run your filtration system constantly for the next few days and thereafter at least 8-12 hours per day or as needed to maintain sparkling clean water. Test daily and maintain sanitizer and balance levels.
Your on-going maintenance will depend on the method of sanitation you have chosen. While there are many ways to kill algae and bacteria, we especially like the mineral purifier method. Instead of high levels of chlorine, cyanuric acid or other harsh chemicals, mineral purifiers utilize copper and silver or copper and zinc to kill algae and bacteria.
An economical and effective version of this is the Instant Pool Frog Water Sanitizer. (Click and enter code JANDY2024 to unlock extra savings!) for in-ground pools or the Flippin Frog for above-ground pools, coupled with a phosphate remover. We will be happy to discuss and provide instructions on whatever method is right for you.
Feel free to call Marina Pool, Spa & Patio with any questions!! (303) 985-0077