Swimming Pool Learning Center

At Patriot Pool Works, we believe that water chemistry balance is the key to pool success.  It is critical for swimming pools to ensure the safety, comfort, and longevity of both the pool and its users.  Our focus on all of the necessary items creates a safe environment and ensures that your investment last for the long haul.  Properly balanced water affects several key aspects:
 

• Health and Safety: Balanced water chemistry, particularly the correct levels of sanitizers like chlorine, ensures the pool is free from harmful pathogens and bacteria that can cause illnesses. Poor water chemistry may lead to the growth of algae, bacteria, and viruses, posing health risks to swimmers.
• Comfort for Swimmers: If the water chemistry is off, it can cause eye irritation, dry skin, and discomfort for swimmers. For example, if the pH is too high or too low, it can make the water feel harsh or cause discomfort like red eyes and dry skin.
• Protection of Pool Equipment: Unbalanced water can corrode metal components such as ladders, pumps, and heating elements or cause scaling, which reduces the efficiency of equipment and can lead to costly repairs or replacements.
• Pool Surface Protection: Imbalanced water can either leach minerals from pool surfaces (like plaster) or deposit scale on them, both of which can damage the pool’s structure over time. Low calcium hardness can cause etching and pitting, while high calcium hardness can lead to scaling.
• Water Clarity: Balanced water ensures that the pool remains clear and sparkling. Imbalances, particularly in pH, alkalinity, or sanitizer levels, can lead to cloudy water, making the pool visually unappealing and harder to maintain.
• Chemical Efficiency: When the water chemistry is balanced, pool chemicals like chlorine are more effective at maintaining cleanliness. Imbalances in pH or total alkalinity can reduce the effectiveness of chlorine and other sanitizers, requiring higher amounts of chemicals to achieve the same effect.
   

To maintain balanced water chemistry, pool owners need to regularly monitor and adjust key factors such as pH (7.2-7.8), alkalinity (80-120 ppm), calcium hardness (200-400 ppm), and sanitizer levels (e.g., chlorine around 1-5 ppm depending on pool type). Keeping these in balance ensures the pool stays safe, clean, and in good condition.

Changing the sand in your pool filter is essential to maintaining proper pool filtration and water quality. Here's why it's necessary:

• Loss of Sand Efficiency Over Time - Over time, the sand in the filter becomes worn down and rounded due to constant water flow and friction. Worn-out sand is less effective at trapping dirt and debris, leading to cloudy water and poor filtration.
• Buildup of Contaminants - Oils, grease, and debris from the pool can coat the sand particles, making them sticky. This buildup reduces the sand’s ability to properly filter water, and even backwashing may not remove these contaminants.
• Clogged or Compacted Sand - As dirt accumulates, the sand can compact or form channels, allowing water to bypass filtration entirely. This reduces the filter’s efficiency and could lead to algae growth or other water issues.
• Maintains Proper Water Flow - Old sand can restrict water flow through the filter, putting strain on your pool pump and reducing circulation. This can lead to higher energy costs and potential equipment damage.
• Improves Pool Water Quality - Replacing the sand ensures your filter works as intended, trapping debris and maintaining crystal-clear water. It's a key part of overall pool maintenance and can prevent larger issues down the road.

The biggest question often asked is "How often do i need to do this?"  that answer varies, but as a general rule, every 3 to 5 years depending on usage volume, water quality, type of sand, and whether or not outside contaminants occur, like leaves, salt water, lotions and oils, or other chemicals.  

The process is simple, but fairly labor intense and involves removing all old sand, replacing laterals and center pipe, adding new clean sand specifically designed for filtration and a replacement multiport seal 

There are some signs that your filter is due for a change or media update.

• High gauge pressure after backwash. 
• Water remains cloudy despite proper chemical levels.
• Increased backwashing frequency.
• Reduced water flow.
• Persistent algae issues.

By keeping your filter’s sand fresh, you ensure your pool remains clean, safe, and enjoyable to swim in, which is what its all about.  Safe and Healthy water!

Whether from tabs in a dispenser, liquid, or salt generation systems, Chlorine plays a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and safety of swimming pool water.  We check chlorine levels on every visit and make adjustments accordingly.  Here’s what chlorine does in a swimming pool:

• Disinfects the Water - Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant that kills bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms in the pool water. This helps prevent waterborne illnesses and infections, making the pool safe for swimmers.
• Oxidizes Organic Matter - Chlorine helps break down and oxidize organic contaminants, such as sweat, body oils, urine, and other debris introduced by swimmers. This oxidation process keeps the water clean and clear.
• Prevents Algae Growth - Chlorine inhibits algae growth by killing algae spores and preventing them from taking hold in the water. Maintaining proper chlorine levels can reduce the likelihood of algae blooms, keeping the pool free of green, cloudy, or slippery conditions.
• Maintains Water Clarity - By eliminating contaminants and preventing algae growth, chlorine helps keep the water crystal clear. Clear water not only looks better but is also essential for safety, allowing lifeguards and swimmers to see the pool bottom clearly.
• Supports a Balanced Pool Chemistry - While chlorine is mainly used for sanitization, it also works in conjunction with other chemicals (like pH balancers and stabilizers) to maintain overall pool chemistry. Proper chlorine levels help ensure that other chemicals can perform their functions effectively.
• Controls Odors - When used correctly, chlorine actually helps prevent unpleasant odors in the pool. Chlorine eliminates organic waste that can cause smells. However, high levels of chloramines (byproducts formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter) can cause a strong chlorine odor, indicating the need for additional treatment.

Properly maintaining chlorine levels (usually between 1-3 ppm for low use residential pools) is essential to ensure it effectively sanitizes the water without causing skin and eye irritation. Regular monitoring and adjustments help keep the pool safe and enjoyable for swimmers.

 As we say, bad things happen to good pools sometimes.  One of those things is algae.  One minute the pool looks great and then the walls and water get a green tinge to them.  By the next day, the pool is fully green and looking more like a farm pond than a swimming pool.  Well, it happens and the cure isn't far away at all. 

• Brush Everything Like Crazy - Use a stiff-bristle brush (nylon or wire depending on your surface) and scrub walls, floor, steps, corners, and anywhere algae clings.  You’re breaking up the algae’s protective layer so the chlorine can destroy it.
• Check and Balance Water Chemistry - Balanced pool water is always important.  With Algae, pH should be 7.2–7.4 (on the low side so chlorine is more effective).
• Shock the Pool HARD:  Use calcium hypochlorite shock—aim for 30 ppm of free chlorine to nuke algae.  Typical pool levels are 2 to 5 ppm.   That’s usually 3–5 lbs per 10,000 gallons, depending on severity.  This is a no swim situation.  For the best results, shock the pool at night to keep the sun from degrading the chlorine.
• Run the Pump 24/7 Until Clear:  Keep that water circulating and circulating well.  Keep variable speed pumps on the highest settings.
• Keep Filters Clean: Clean or backwash your filter daily—it’s catching all the dead algae.
• Hose Vacuum to Waste:  If you see dead algae on the floor in the coming days, manually vacuum it to waste so it doesn’t go back through the filter.  Don't use power -cleaners—they can stir it up too much
• Add a Good Algaecide (Optional):  After the chlorine levels drop back to normal (<5 ppm), add a polyquat algaecide for backup..  Avoid copper-based algaecides unless you know your water chemistry can handle it

Algae looks worse than it really is and can be quickly cleaned up.  From there, it is much more about cultural practices than chemical intervention.  Just remember - Brush, Flow, Balance!

One of the items that we focus on is calcium hardness.  That refers to the concentration of dissolved calcium in water, typically measured as calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). Generally, we test and adjust pools in the Spring and Fall. In swimming pools, maintaining the correct calcium hardness is crucial for several reasons:

• Pool Surface Protection: If calcium hardness is too low, the water becomes aggressive and can start leaching calcium from plaster, concrete, or tile surfaces, leading to erosion, pitting, and damage to pool surfaces.
• Equipment Longevity: Low calcium hardness can also damage pool equipment such as heaters, pumps, and pipes by corroding metal surfaces. Over time, this can result in costly repairs or replacements.
• Water Balance: Calcium hardness is one of the key factors in maintaining balanced pool water, along with pH and total alkalinity. Unbalanced water can cause scale formation (if too high) or corrosive conditions (if too low).
• Bather Comfort: Water that is too soft (low calcium hardness) may feel slippery and uncomfortable for swimmers, while water that is too hard can feel harsh and cause skin irritation.
   

The ideal calcium hardness range for most pools is typically between 200-400 parts per million (ppm), though specific levels may vary depending on the pool surface material. Regular testing and adjustment help ensure the pool remains safe, comfortable, and well-maintained.  Managing calcium hardness is a cost effective addition to any pool environment.  

 Cyanuric acid, often referred to as a chlorine stabilizer, plays an essential role in maintaining clean and safe swimming pool water. Its primary function is to protect chlorine from degradation by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. When chlorine is exposed to direct sunlight, it can break down rapidly, diminishing its ability to effectively disinfect pool water. By adding cyanuric acid, pool owners help absorb harmful UV rays, thereby preserving chlorine levels and ensuring consistent disinfection.

This protective mechanism not only maintains water clarity and safety by effectively controlling bacteria, viruses, and algae, but it also reduces the need for excessive chlorine usage. Lower chlorine consumption can lead to cost savings and a more balanced pool environment. However, it is important to maintain cyanuric acid at optimal levels—typically between 30 and 50 parts per million (ppm). Too little cyanuric acid can result in quick chlorine loss, while excessive amounts may lead to “chlorine lock,” reducing chlorine’s effectiveness.

In summary, cyanuric acid is a critical component in pool water chemistry, enhancing chlorine stability and ensuring that pool water remains both hygienic and enjoyable for swimmers. Maintaining proper cyanuric acid levels is therefore essential for cost-effective, safe, and long-lasting pool maintenance. Absolutely necessary.

 Managing phosphates in a pool is important for maintaining water quality, preventing algae growth, and reducing the need for chemical treatments.  Many pool companies ignore this part of the water and bill additional chemicals to cover up for not dealing with the issue.  Here are the key benefits to managing phosphates:

• Prevents Algae Growth - Phosphates serve as a nutrient source for algae, promoting their growth. By reducing phosphate levels, you limit algae's food supply, making it harder for them to thrive. This results in fewer algae blooms and clearer water.
• Reduces Chemical Usage - Lower phosphate levels can reduce the need for algaecides and other chemicals needed to treat algae outbreaks. This saves on costs and helps maintain a more balanced chemical environment in the pool.
• Improves Water Clarity - Controlling phosphate levels helps keep the water crystal clear. Without excess phosphates feeding algae, the water stays cleaner and looks more inviting.
• Enhances Filtration Efficiency - High phosphate levels can clog filters due to algae and organic debris. By managing phosphates, the filter works more effectively, requiring less frequent cleaning and reducing maintenance.
• Prevents Scaling and Staining - Phosphates can contribute to scaling and staining on pool surfaces. Managing phosphate levels helps protect the pool’s surfaces and equipment, extending their lifespan.
• Maintains Proper Chemical Balance - When phosphate levels are under control, maintaining the correct levels of chlorine, pH, and other chemicals is easier, leading to a more stable pool environment.
• Reduces Pool Maintenance Time and Saves Money - With fewer algae problems, less frequent shocking, and more efficient filtration, overall maintenance time and costs can be significantly reduced.

Regularly testing for phosphates and using a phosphate remover if levels are high can help keep a pool in optimal condition and save you money for more important things.  

Ever hear the phrase "salt pool" said?  Well, this is what they mean.

A swimming pool salt system, also known as a saltwater chlorination system, generates chlorine through a process called electrolysis. Instead of adding chlorine directly to the pool, the system uses salt dissolved in the water to produce chlorine as needed. While the upfront cost is higher than a traditional chlorine dosing system, the savings in chlorine alone makes for a great return on investment.  Here's how it works:
 

1. Adding Salt to the Pool:  First, salt (typically sodium chloride) is added to the pool water. The salt concentration required for a saltwater system is much lower than seawater, usually around 2,500 to 3,500 parts per million (ppm). This level is enough for the system to generate chlorine, but low enough that the water doesn’t taste salt.
2. Electrolysis in the Salt Cell: The heart of the system is the salt cell, which contains plates made of materials like titanium. When the pool water passes through the salt cell, a low-voltage electric current is applied to the water. This causes a chemical reaction (electrolysis) where the dissolved salt (NaCl) is split into sodium (Na) and chlorine gas (Cl₂).
3. Chlorine Generation: The chlorine gas (Cl₂) generated by the electrolysis process dissolves in the water, forming hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hypochlorite ions (OCl⁻), which are the same sanitizing agents found in traditional chlorine products. These chemicals disinfect the pool by killing bacteria, algae, and other harmful microorganisms
4. Sanitizing the Pool:  Once the chlorine is produced and mixed with the water, it sanitizes the pool in the same way that manually added chlorine would. The chlorine levels are maintained automatically as long as the salt levels and the system are properly functioning. 
5. Chlorine Regeneration:  One of the benefits of a salt system is that after the chlorine has finished sanitizing the water, it eventually converts back into salt, which can be reused by the system. This cycle reduces the need for frequent manual chlorine additions.
    

There are several advantages to a properly installed and maintained salt system:
 

• Consistent Chlorine Levels: The system produces chlorine consistently, so there are fewer fluctuations in sanitizer levels, leading to more stable water chemistry and less sanitizer related issues.
• Lower Chemical Costs: After the initial salt addition, there is little need to purchase and handle traditional chlorine chemicals.  
• Softer Water: Saltwater pools tend to feel smoother and less harsh on the skin and eyes compared to traditionally chlorinated pools.
• Less Maintenance: With a salt system, you don't have to add chlorine manually, reducing the time spent on pool upkeep.
   

In summary, a swimming pool salt systems provides a convenient, automated way to generate chlorine, making pool maintenance easier while keeping the water clean and safe.  After the initial investment, owners begin to see savings right way as little traditional chlorine is needed.

 From a maintenance standpoint, salt chlorination systems do require more processes to keep them in top condition for efficient chlorine generation.    

• Salt Cell Cleaning: Salt cells can accumulate scale or debris and needs to be cleaned periodically to function efficiently.  We recommend inspection and cleaning every 60 to 90 days.  
• Salt Levels: Pool owners must monitor the salt concentration in the pool to ensure it stays within the recommended range.  Just add more salt, if it drops below recommended levels.
• Pool Equipment Wear and Anodes: While saltwater systems are gentler than traditional chlorine systems, over time, the slightly salty water can cause corrosion on metal pool equipment, so it's important to use saltwater-compatible components.  In our salt pools, we always recommend the usage and maintenance of sacrificial anodes to help with these issues.  

Salt chlorination systems are a great option in any pool to save money and have better water quality and easy sanitizer management.   The initial cost is higher than standard chlorine systems, but it return on investment pays off in chemical savings rather quickly.

Installing a sacrificial anode in your swimming pool is a smart way to protect metal components in and around the pool from corrosion.  They can be installed inline or attach to various pieces of equipment.  Here’s why it’s beneficial:

• Prevents Corrosion: Metals like ladders, lights, pool pumps, and heating elements are exposed to water and chemicals in the pool, leading to corrosion over time. Anodes are made of a metal (usually zinc) that corrodes faster than other metals in your pool, "sacrificing" itself to protect these components.
• Increases Equipment Lifespan: By preventing corrosion, an anode can significantly extend the life of metal parts and equipment in your pool, saving you money on replacements and repairs.
• Reduces Staining: Corroding metals release particles into the water, which can cause unsightly stains on the pool’s surfaces. An anode helps prevent this by absorbing the corrosive effects.
• Improves Safety: Corroded metal can be sharp and unsafe for swimmers. An anode minimizes this risk by preventing the degradation of metals.
• Balances Pool Chemistry: Corrosion disrupts the water’s chemical balance, potentially requiring you to use more chemicals to maintain balance. Anodes reduce this impact, helping keep your pool chemistry stable.

Anodes are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, often connected to the pool’s bonding wire. They offer a low-cost, effective way to keep your pool looking great and functioning safely. In the end, they save you money.  Its a no brainer to add one for about $150 in any salt system or heater installation.

 A gunite pool generally needs resurfacing every 10-15 years, though this can vary based on several factors, including the type of finish, climate, pool maintenance, and usage frequency. Common finishes for gunite pools, like plaster, pebble, and quartz, have different lifespans:

• Plaster: About 7-10 years in residential service and 5 - 7 years with rental or beach side properties. This is the most common finish, but it's also more prone to staining, etching, and discoloration over time.
• Quartz: About 10-15 years in residential service. Quartz finishes are more durable and often hold their color better than plaster.
• Pebble: About 15-20 years in residential service. Pebble finishes are highly durable, resisting etching and chemical damage, making them one of the longest-lasting finishes for all pools.

Routine pool maintenance, like maintaining proper water chemistry and cleaning, can help extend the surface's lifespan, while harsh conditions or heavy use may shorten it. Look out for signs like cracks, stains, rough patches, or flaking plaster, as these indicate that resurfacing might be needed sooner.

Extending your season with a heater is a great way to extend the usage of your pool.  A bypass valve on a pool heater is not required, but is highly recommended in all situations to extend the life and offer functional options that every pool needs. They specifically help:

• High Flow Rate Pools:  If your pump generates more flow than the heater's recommended capacity, a bypass helps regulate water flow rate to aid in more efficient and consistent heating.
• Saltwater Pools: Helps protect the heater from excessive exposure to corrosive saltwater in times when salt cells don't produce or the heater is off
• Seasonal Use: If you don’t use the heater year-round, a bypass lets you redirect water and extend the heater’s lifespan.  Bypassing and draining of your heater is a great way to save wear and tear.
• Reducing Wear & Tear: Allows service or maintenance on the heater without shutting down the entire pool.  The pool can stay circulating without it
• During Curing Processes after Resplastering:  Low pH pool water needed to cure plaster is extremely hard on pool equipment and especially the copper manifolds in a heater.

During an installation process, it is very easy to install bypass valves and a protective anode.  Those two together will keep your heater in top condition over the long haul.  For an extra $350, you can add life and improved function to your $6000 (average) pool heater.  Why wouldn't you do it?

Concerned that your pool may have a leak? Is the water level in your pool dropping faster than you think it should? 

Try the pool bucket test. The pool bucket test is simple - the rate of the evaporation of water is the same from any surface. Fill a bucket half way with water and measure the depth.  Take a depth measurement from a specific and repeatable spot in the pool.  Wait 24 hours.  f the bucket shows a quarter-inch loss of water to evaporation, then the swimming pool should show the same loss. If the water loss in the pool is more than the bucket, there is a leak.  

Its that easy.  Now, call a leak detection expert, like us, to find the exact spot and make the repair.  Nothing can be more expensive or do more damage than a pool leak.