How do I balance my pool water chemistry?

Achieving ideal pool water chemistry: A guide for Australian pools

Having properly balanced water is crucial for any swimming pool, but Australia’s hot climate and hard water conditions present some unique chemistry challenges. With years of local experience under our belts, Clearwater Pool Shop know exactly how to help Aussie pool owners get their chemical levels in tip-top shape.

The two most critical factors to control are pH and sanitiser concentration (chlorine or bromine). The pH level indicates whether water is acidic or alkaline, and should be kept between 7.2 – 7.6 to avoid damage from corrosion or scaling and maximise sanitiser effectiveness.

Chlorine is the predominant pool sanitiser used in Australia. Maintaining 1 – 3 ppm (parts per million) of free chlorine kills bacteria and prevents nasty algae growth. Make sure to check and adjust chlorine levels at least weekly, especially in summer. Shock dosing to superchlorinate may be needed if levels drop too low.

Salt chlorine generators that automatically convert dissolved salt into sanitising chlorine are a popular option for low-maintenance Aussie pools. Keep salt levels between 4000 – 6000 ppm for optimum chlorine production. Supplement with liquid or tablet chlorine as needed to maintain 1 – 3 ppm.

For bromine pools, keep bromine levels between 2 – 4 ppm for proper sanitation.

Test strips provide a quick and easy chemistry check, but liquid test kits give more accurate pH and sanitiser measurements. We can also provide on the spot water chemical checks to provide the most accurate results with our specialist equipment. Be sure to check levels at least weekly in summer and make incremental adjustments to get your chemistry into balance.

Two other important factors for Aussie pools are alkalinity and calcium hardness. Total alkalinity between 80 – 150 ppm will keep pH stable and prevent large fluctuations. Calcium hardness between 150 – 400 ppm provides pH buffering and prevents corrosive water from etching pool surfaces.

Cyanuric acid helps shield chlorine from our intense Aussie sun – aim for 30 – 50 ppm. Plus, supplement with a weekly dose of non-chlorine shock to kill off contaminants and leave water crystal clear.

Give us a call anytime for a full water chemistry workup or help getting your levels balanced on 0426 998 908. Perfect pool water is just a test and a few adjustments away!