- 1). Clean the pool of all debris such as leaves, toys and other foreign objects. Using a long-handled pool brush, gently brush the sides and bottom of the pool to dislodge any algae growth.
- 2). Test the chemical composition of the pool using the test strips. Most test kits include detailed instructions on the proper way to read the strips and what levels are acceptable. In most cases, the proper sequence is to test the pH level first, followed by the alkalinity level, then the chlorine level. Do not skip ahead in the tests---they must be done sequentially.
- 3). Turn on the pool filtering system, if available. Put on your eye protection. Sprinkle the required amount of pH additive granules evenly across the surface of the pool using a plastic bucket. Allow the granules to dissipate briefly, then retest the water's pH level. PH should always be maintained between 7.2 and 7.8 as read on the test strips. Reapply pH "up" or pH "down" as necessary to attain this level. Clean the plastic bucket thoroughly and dry it.
- 4). Add your alkalinity adjusters (muriatic acid lowers alkalinity, while baking soda raises alkalinity) to the pool by spreading the required quantity evenly with the plastic bucket across the surface of the pool. Alkalinity should be maintained in the 125 ppm (parts per million) to 170 ppm range for painted, vinyl and fiberglass pools (aboveground pools are usually one of these types); concrete pools should stay in the 80 ppm to 120 ppm area. Allow the chemicals to dissipate, then retest the water's alkalinity. Clean the plastic bucket thoroughly and dry it.
- 5). Adjust the chlorine level by adding the required amount of chlorine to a bucket of water (50/50 ratio), spreading this mixture evenly with the plastic bucket across the surface of the pool. Allow it to dissipate, then retest the water's chlorine level. The optimum chlorine level is between 1.0 ppm and 2.0 ppm. Clean the plastic bucket thoroughly and dry it. Chlorine levels almost never need to be lowered, since chlorine breaks down and dissipates rapidly in sunlight. If you need to add just a small amount of chlorine, add a few chlorine tablets to the pool's filter basket and retest daily until equilibrium is attained.
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