Rain, Explained

A little rain never hurt anybody...but a lot can kill your pool chemistry. Most pros have seen a storm turn perfectly clear water cloudy or green, or knock its chemical balance sideways. So, what exactly happens to the pool when it rains?

The answer, of course, is complicated — but understanding some of the basics can make aftermath maintenance easier.

Rain water is not completely pure. There could be anything in the atmosphere at the time, including dust, smoke, industrial pollutants, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide and airborne organic material that would be encapsulated by the rain water. There contaminants can steal the attention of your pool’s chemicals. The more contaminants in the water, the higher the chlorine demand — and at lowered levels, chlorine isn’t as effective as it should be. Additionally, heavy rains can create run-off that can enter into your pool.

If a storm leaves the pool looking swampy, it can because rainwater can foster the right conditions for algae growth. Simply stated, rain and rain run-off can dilute your sanitization levels which leaves more room for bacteria and algae to grow.

An extra pre-emptive effort will ease the damage control later. Anticipating the effects of a storm can help to quickly put pool chemistry back in range after a storm has altered it. Alicia Stephens, education and training manager at Biolab says, “Don’t just let the pool get bad and then clean it up, if you have the right chemicals in there, it never gets bad in the first place, because it’s just cleaning everything up as it comes in.” Stephens continues, “Always, always, always shock the pool before a storm if you’re able to, that will build your chemistry up to where it’s a little more forgiving of whatever’s going to get washed into the pool during the storm.”

All in all, Colley’s Pools & Spas has experienced technicians and staff who can answer most any questions regarding how rain water may effect your pool’s water chemistry. Give us a call!

How to Test your Water with a Testing Strip

Testing your pool is a regular and integral part of pool ownership. It’s essential to maintaining water that is crystal clear and algae free. It’s also important to maintain a good balance of chemicals in your pool because improper water chemistry can cause damage to your pool and equipment. Beyond that, imbalanced water can cause eye irritation and hair discoloration.

Test at least once each week, more if you are using the pool heavily. You may want to test 2-3 times a week if you are new to pool maintenance until you get used to the fluctuations. It can help to pick one day a week to routinely test your water.

Process:

1. Use a clean, empty cup

2. Take the sample in the middle of the pool away from jets and skimmers

3. Dip container upside down until elbow deep, then take the sample

Luckily, our 4 retail locations (Hamburg, Clarence, Fredonia and Erie, PA) have complimentary, computerized water testing stations so you don’t even need to worry about doing your own water tests! Come in with a water sample and get your water tested by our state-of-the-art ALEX water testing system! An added bonus when bringing your water sample in to one of our retail stores for testing is that a knowledgeable staff member will help you select the chemicals you need to properly balance your pool. As an added incentive, 4 times a year we run a special that is 10% off needed balancing chemicals when you bring your water sample in for testing!

Tips for Properly Storing your Chemicals

Safely storing pool chemicals is an important part of keeping your pool environment safe. Pool chemicals are essential to keep your pool water clean and clear and free of contaminants. However, they can be dangerous if they aren’t stored or handled properly. Additionally, chemicals can be costly so it is important you store them properly.

Over time, pool chemicals can naturally break down. This process can be accelerated if the chemicals are not stored properly. Here are some tips to make sure your pool chemicals are stored in a safe environment:

1. Do Not Reuse or Switch Containers: Reusing pool chemical containers or transferring chemicals to another container is never recommended as it can create a dangerous situation. When storing pool chemicals, always use the original containers with their labels clearly legible. Each container was designed for the specific storage requirements of the chemical it contains, so it is never advisable to switch containers. Even if you’re handling the same type of chemical, mixing a new batch of a chemical with a leftover batch of the same chemical can lead to a reaction from the older residue, or create fumes.

2. Keep Chemicals Away From Flammable Items: It should go without saying but, outdoor storage areas for pool chemicals should be out of the reach of anything flammable. Keep any gas-powered equipment, like your lawnmower, in a completely different location. The storage site should also be away from sources of heat, like an outdoor fire pit or grill.

3. Provide Plenty of Ventilation: Choose a location with ample ventilation for storing pool chemicals. In areas with little airflow, dangerous fumes can quickly accumulate if chemicals do start to react.

4. Avoid Exposure to Sunlight and Humidity: When considering where to store pool chemicals, the best storage locations are areas out of direct sunlight. Pool chemicals react poorly to sunshine and heat, and require a dark, cool environment to control for any potential reactions. Humidity or even small amounts of pool water can cause chemical reactions that could lead to dangerous fumes.