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!

UV and Ozone Systems

What is a UV System and What Does it Do?

A UV system is a sanitation system that uses an ultraviolet light (UV) to eliminate chlorine-resistant micro-organisms with a kill rate of 99.9%. In essence, the UV system uses a powerful lamp to produce UV radiation inside a light chamber.

What is an Ozone System and What Does it Do?

Similar to the UV System, an Ozone system is also a sanitation system. It kills or removes viruses, bacteria, spores, mildew, and fungi. It actually oxidizes the water, which is a safe alternative to chlorine. Ozone systems draw oxygen into the ozone chamber that comes across a high output UV germicidal bulb which results in what is called ozone generation. Simply put, ozone quickly kills the germs it comes in contact with at the molecular level by ways of oxidation. After oxidation is complete, or if the ozone finds nothing to oxidize, it returns to molecular oxygen and dissipates. Using a tube injection method, the ozone flows back into the pool’s equipment, mixing the water with ozone and sanitizing.

Combining UV and Ozone

When combined, you get a sanitation system that works together in attacking and eliminating bacteria, viruses, and even those nasty water-born illnesses. When it comes to traditional chlorine pools vs. UV/Ozone pools, the only major difference is that you typically use about 80% less chlorine in a UV/Ozone pool.

If you are considering a UV/Ozone system it is best to consult your local Colley’s location with any questions or inquiries!