KEEPING THE POOL WATER BALANCED

Suppose that a water sample is tested and found to have a positive Saturation Index, indicating
scale-forming properties. The first factors to consider in correcting this condition are pH and Total
Alkalinity, since they can be adjusted most readily.
A change in pH will change the index by the same amount. The method for lowering pH is to add
an acidic material such as hydrochlolric acid. This not only lowers pH, but also reduces total
alkalinity. Normally, the pH of the water should not be allowed to drop below 7.2.
Scale deposits are sometimes found in pools filled with soft water because calcium carbonate was
dissolved from the concrete or plaster walls during the initial fill and was subsequently reprecipitated
when hypochlorites or other alkaline materials which cause an increase in pH were added.
All chemicals have, some effect on water balance. Chlorine ,gas, hydrochloric acid,
trichloroisocyanuric acid and other acid materials, by decreasing pH, make water more corrosive
while hypochlorites, soda
ash and caustic soda, by raising its pH, increase its scaling properties.
By maintaining a pH range which causes Total Alkalinity to remain at or about that concentration
which, in combination with adequate calcium hardness, gives Balanced Water, problems due to
corrosive or scaling water will be avoided.
By making the required tests, using Calcium Saturation Index it should be possible for pool
owners/operators to achieve and maintain satisfactory water balance even though they may have
little or no
Real understanding of the true concept of Balanced Water.

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