Category: Pool Maintenance

 

As the vibrant days of summer fade into the crisp air of autumn, fiberglass pool owners face the critical task of preparing their pools for the off-season. However, the period of dormancy does not equate to a halt in maintenance efforts. Instead, the off-season requires a strategic approach to ensure your pool water is neither corrosive nor scaling and ready to welcome the enjoyment of the next swimming season. This blog post delves into the essential steps for monitoring your pool’s water chemistry balance during the colder months, safeguarding against potential damages that winter can bring.

 

Water Chemistry and Balance Challenges in the Off-season

Fiberglass pools, celebrated for their durability and longevity, are not immune to all the challenges of changing seasons. The fiberglass pool structure is generally more resilient against winter conditions thanks to its flexibility which can better withstand the stress caused by freezing temperatures. However, harsh winter conditions can still threaten the water balance and the pool surface if the pool is not properly winterized. The risk of damage escalates during winter when colder water temperatures can render the water more aggressive. This aggressiveness primarily stems from the water’s chemistry balance shifting with temperature changes, potentially leading to issues that can compromise the integrity of your pool’s finish.

 

Seasonal Cleaning and Preparation

The first step in your off-season maintenance routine should be thoroughly cleaning your pool. End-of-season cleaning includes wiping down the waterline with a soft brush to eliminate any buildup of debris, sunscreen, body oils, and other contaminants that may have accumulated over the swimming season. Also, brush the walls and floor of the pool, paying extra attention to corners and steps where algae and bacteria might accumulate. Remove all leaves, debris, and dirt from the water using a skimmer and vacuum the pool thoroughly to eliminate any settled particles and algae. A clean pool is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a stable foundation for your off-season water balance efforts.

 

Balancing for the Cold

Achieving and maintaining the correct pH, calcium, and alkalinity levels is crucial for sustaining your pool’s LSI balance, especially considering the estimated coldest winter temperatures. For instance, average winter pool water temperatures in the Midwest can hover around 45 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to recognize that water balanced at a warm 80 degrees may become corrosive at significantly lower temperatures. This phenomenon underscores the importance of adjusting your pool’s water chemistry to accommodate the cooling temperatures, ensuring the water remains non-corrosive and protective of your pool’s fiberglass surface.

 

The Role of a Pool Cover

Investing in a high-quality pool cover offers multiple benefits throughout the year, with its importance magnified during the off-season. A pool cover acts as a barrier against debris, reduces water evaporation, and helps maintain the pool’s water chemistry balance by minimizing external influences. 

Especially important for households with children or pets, a properly secured winter pool cover can prevent accidental falls into the pool. Safety covers are designed to withstand a person’s weight, providing an extra layer of protection when the pool is not in use. More than a convenience, a pool cover provides peace of mind and ensures your pool remains clean, sealed, and safe throughout the winter.

 

Benefits of Proactive Off-season Maintenance

The effort you put into off-season maintenance directly impacts the longevity and condition of your fiberglass pool. By taking proactive steps to clean your pool, adjust its water chemistry for the cold, periodically check its balance, and secure it with a pool cover, you protect your investment and make for an easier and more efficient opening in the spring. This proactive approach ensures your pool remains a source of enjoyment and relaxation for many years without extensive repairs or adjustments when the swim season arrives. Embrace the off-season as an opportunity to ensure your fiberglass pool’s continued health, beauty, and enjoyment.

Owning a fiberglass pool brings with it the benefits of reduced upkeep demands and the guarantee of continuous enjoyment during the warmer months. Yet, it’s crucial to recognize that this ease of ownership is complemented by the need for consistent maintenance, particularly in maintaining balanced pool water chemistry, to ensure your pool remains a radiant and inviting space to spend time with your family and friends. This post examines what routine fiberglass pool maintenance entails and guides you through a plan to keep your pool in perfect harmony throughout the swimming season.

 

Starting the Season Right

Opening your fiberglass pool marks the commencement of the swimming season and sets the stage for a season of fun and relaxation. Once you open your pool, commit to conducting daily tests to adjust your pool’s chemistry until the water’s Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) value is balanced (-0.30 to +0.30). This crucial first step ensures your pool water is neither too corrosive nor scaling, protecting the integrity and appearance of the fiberglass gel coat.

 

Maintaining Chlorine Levels

Once the LSI is in balance, the next step is to add sanitizer to maintain chlorine levels within a safe range of 1 to 3 parts per million (ppm). This range is optimal for disinfecting the pool without damaging the fiberglass surface. Monitoring and adjusting chlorine levels is a fundamental aspect of routine maintenance that keeps the water clear, clean, and safe for swimmers.

 

Weekly Checks and Adjustments

Your pool’s water chemistry can quickly fluctuate even after establishing a balanced baseline due to various events such as changes in swimmer load, weather conditions, organic debris, water evaporation and more. Perform weekly tests to ensure ongoing water balance, checking the chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and other factors contributing to the LSI. These regular check-ins help catch and correct minor imbalances before they become bigger issues.

 

Water Level and Filtration Maintenance

Maintaining the pool’s water level is another vital aspect of routine care. The water level should always be halfway to the top of the skimmer window to ensure efficient filtration and circulation. Regularly check and clean the filter and skimmer baskets to prevent clogs and maintain proper function. Additionally, vacuuming your pool to remove debris and sediment keeps the water clearer and reduces the strain on your pool’s filtration system.

 

Gentle Cleaning for Long-Lasting Shine

The non-porous gelcoat surface of fiberglass pools is highly stain-resistant, making cleaning a breeze. A soft microfiber cloth, sponge, or pool brush with nylon bristles should suffice. Some household cleaners contain harsh chemicals unsuitable for fiberglass pool surfaces and may cause damage over time. Always use cleaners specifically designed for fiberglass pools as aggressive cleaning agents can damage the gelcoat, leading to unnecessary wear and repair costs. Metal scrapers or putty knives can gouge or scratch the fiberglass when used to remove debris or scale. Also avoid using highly abrasive tools such as wire and stiff bristle brushes or steel wool. 

 

The Value of Prevention

In pool maintenance, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Regular, proactive care keeps your pool looking and performing its best and extends the life of your investment. Fortunately, the inherent durability and ease of care associated with fiberglass pools mean that maintaining balanced water chemistry requires less effort than you might think. Test kits and tools such as the Orenda LSI calculator smartphone application can help by quickly providing direction on how to properly balance your pool water.

 

Understanding Low Maintenance Isn’t Maintenance-Free

While fiberglass pools are celebrated for their low maintenance needs, it’s important to remember that “less maintenance” doesn’t mean “maintenance-free.” The foundation of a healthy, long-lasting pool is balanced water chemistry, achieved through frequent and routine testing, precise adjustments, and regular cleaning. By embracing these responsibilities, you’ll ensure your pool remains a beautiful source of joy, relaxation, and pride.

Routine fiberglass pool maintenance, centered around balanced water chemistry, is the cornerstone of a healthy, beautiful pool. By beginning the season with thorough testing and adjustments, maintaining chlorine levels, weekly checks, keeping the pool clean, and proactively managing the water balance, you can enjoy a trouble-free swimming experience. 

 

For many homeowners, the decision to install a fiberglass pool is influenced by the widely recognized benefit of reduced maintenance. The non-porous surface of a fiberglass pool significantly lessens the likelihood of algae growth and reduces the demand for chemicals to maintain water balance. This inherent characteristic of fiberglass pools contributes to their appeal, offering homeowners more time to enjoy their aquatic sanctuary with less laborious upkeep. However, it’s crucial to understand that “lower maintenance” does not equate to “maintenance-free.” For fiberglass pool owners, maintaining your pool’s vibrant, smooth finish is just as important as keeping the water clear and inviting. While the allure of crystal-clear water is undeniable, the unseen balance of water chemistry plays the most crucial role in preserving the integrity and appearance of your pool. This post explores five essential steps to maintain your pool’s finish, including tips on proper pool water chemistry. 

 

Achieve Optimal Water Balance with LSI

The Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) is your best friend when understanding water balance. Achieving an optimal LSI is crucial for preventing damage to the gelcoat of your fiberglass pool. An imbalanced LSI can lead to scaling or etching, both of which can mar your pool’s finish.

Thankfully, you don’t need to be a chemist to manage water chemistry. Tools like the Orenda LSI Calculator simplify the process, helping you to find and maintain the right balance easily. For further guidance, refer to water balance cheat sheets, instructional videos, and other resources available through trusted pool maintenance platforms.

Maintain Recommended Chlorine Levels

Chlorine protects your pool’s health, freeing it from harmful bacteria and algae. However, the relationship between chlorine and fiberglass pools must be carefully managed. Maintaining free chlorine levels between 1 and 3 parts per million (ppm) is ideal. Beware of exceeding 5 ppm especially when your pool water is not properly balanced, as high chlorine levels can cause irreversible damage to your pool’s surface, leading to discoloration and degradation of the gelcoat. Maintaining optimal LSI levels makes your chlorine more efficient and less harsh on the pool surface and equipment.

Avoid Calcium Hypochlorite

While calcium hypochlorite is favored in various pool contexts for shock treatments, it poses risks for fiberglass pools due to its propensity to elevate pH levels and deliver a high dose of free chlorine. Such characteristics can lead to lasting damage to the pool’s surface. Liquid chlorine emerges as a preferable alternative, offering a safer means to manage pool hygiene without the associated risks of calcium hypochlorite. Nevertheless, vigilance is required to prevent the adverse effects of excessive chlorine, ensuring the pool’s surface remains pristine.

Don’t Assume Your Pool Pros Know It All

The pool maintenance industry is constantly evolving, with new products and refined best practices emerging regularly. As a pool owner, staying informed about these developments is beneficial to ensure your pool receives the best care possible.

Engage with your pool maintenance professionals and inquire whether they use the LSI for water balancing. Your proactive approach can make a significant difference in maintaining the pristine condition of your pool.

Remember, Clear Water Isn’t a Guarantee of Proper Balance

While clear water may symbolize cleanliness and balance, it does not necessarily reflect the underlying chemical equilibrium essential for pool health. Undetected imbalances can precipitate issues like staining, fading, or etching, which may only become apparent once they have inflicted considerable damage. Consequently, regular and thorough testing, guided by LSI metrics, is crucial. This disciplined approach extends beyond aesthetic considerations, forming the cornerstone of proactive pool maintenance that ensures both the preservation of the pool’s finish and the safety of its users.

 

Comprehensive Maintenance: A Holistic Approach

Maintaining the finish of your fiberglass pool involves a delicate balance of chemistry and care. By following these five essential steps, you won’t just preserve the look and feel of your pool—you’ll extend its lifespan and enhance the enjoyment it brings to your life.

It’s critical to remember that pool maintenance is an ongoing process. Achieving the optimal water balance today doesn’t mean it will remain that way for the entire swim season. Regular testing and adjustments to your pool’s chemistry will keep your pool in top condition. Embrace the journey of pool ownership equipped with knowledge and confidence, knowing that each step you take protects your cherished aquatic retreat.

Maintaining balanced pool water chemistry in your fiberglass pool is truly a balancing act. Each of the six factors that calculate the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) can ebb and flow, although some are more reactionary and volatile than others. While maintaining all six factors may feel like a juggling act, understanding what they are, how they interact, and their impact on your pool is critical to keeping the LSI balanced and your water in equilibrium.

 

The Critical Role of pH

pH, or “potential of hydrogen,” is the most critical variable in water chemistry balance. While alterations of any involved equation variables can affect your water balance, a change in pH can have ten times the effect compared to other LSI factors. 

pH levels indicate water’s acidity or basicity. They range from 0 to 14, with 0 being very acidic, 7 being neutral, and 14 being very basic. Chlorine and other sanitizers will only remain effective and function correctly within specific pH ranges—namely, the range between 7.2 and 7.6 deemed ideal for swimming pools. Hydrochloric or muriatic acid can lower high pH levels, while a low-pH pool will need an alkaline boost from sodium carbonate. 

The best thing an owner can do for the health and safety of their pool and its frequent swimmers is to regularly test the pH and other chemical levels. Daily testing and checks before and after each use are recommended and will help you become more familiar with how various factors, including some outside your control, affect your pH and overall LSI levels. 

 

Total Alkalinity

Alkalinity is often called “the yin to pH’s yang,” as the two are related. Alkalinity measures water’s capacity to withstand changes in pH. In fiberglass pools, recommended total alkalinity levels range from 80 to 120 parts per million.

Low alkalinity makes water corrosive, causing stains and etching on your pool’s surface. Water will become depository if alkalinity rises above the recommended range for fiberglass pools (120 ppm). As a result, pool surface scaling occurs and a white cloudy film may appear, clogging filters and reducing circulation.

 

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)

As the name implies, total dissolved solids (TDS) include chemicals or anything other than calcium that remains after water evaporates. These solids can include salts, metals, minerals, and other organic materials that have entered and dissolved within the pool water. We recommend that the TDS level be no higher than 1,500 ppm (or 1,000 ppm above safe salt level in saltwater pools). A high TDS level can lead to algae blooms, scaling, or other pool stains.

 

Cyanuric Acid (Chlorine Stabilizer)

Cyanuric acid (CYA) will prevent the sun’s ultraviolet rays from decomposing free chlorine in your pool water. Levels between 30 and 50 ppm are recommended, but higher levels don’t necessarily mean better results. If the cyanuric acid level reaches 100 ppm or above, chlorine’s effectiveness at killing bacteria and algae is compromised.

 

Calcium Hardness

A lower calcium hardness level in your pool water results in a softer and silkier it will feel on swimmers’ skin. Calcium hardness is also essential for maintaining water cleanliness and equipment operation. Regulated calcium hardness between the recommended range of 150 to 200 ppm will help keep pool materials looking and working their best. When calcium hardness is too low, the water becomes aggressive and corrosive. When too high, pH levels raise, leading to cloudy water, surface discoloration, and filter-clogging calcium deposits.

 

Temperature

The temperature factor is the only non-chemical component of water chemistry balance and your pool’s LSI. Utilizing a pool heater will make your temperature factor much easier to control. Many swimmers enjoy a “bathwater” feel and temperature, but water warmer than 82 degrees Fahrenheit can encourage bacteria or algae growth. Calcium deposits form more quickly in warmer water, while a too-cool pool makes it easier for water to begin corroding equipment.

Parents of infants and young children should consider keeping temperatures slightly higher into the upper 80s. However, a pool used primarily for exercise or competitive swim training should skew lower, between 77 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. A good general rule for many pool owners is aiming for a water temperature between 77 degrees and the mid-80s. Keeping a constant temperature will help prevent bacteria and algae growth and improve the efforts of chlorine, saltwater, or other pool sanitation measures.

 

Every Factor is Important

Many pool owners and even pool service professionals habitually test for pH and chlorine, and occasionally they check the alkalinity. However, this approach ignores many critical LSI factors. Although they do not tend to change as rapidly, You should also regularly test calcium hardness, CYA, and TDS. By testing all six factors in your pool water, you will have a more clear and complete understanding of its LSI and water balance.

 

Balancing your pool water is essential for maintaining its clarity, safety, and longevity, especially for fiberglass pool owners. While pool water chemistry balance may seem complex, modern tools like the Orenda Technologies LSI Calculator have simplified the testing and adjustment process. This blog post will guide you through using Orenda’s app to achieve optimal water balance in your pool, ensuring it stays in beautiful condition without needing a degree in chemistry. We’ve included step-by-step instructions, complemented by screen-capture images, to make the process as straightforward as possible.

Editor’s Note: There are available alternatives to the Orenda app. Thursday Pools and Orenda have no relationship other than sharing a desire to help fiberglass pool owners properly maintain their water chemistry. If you want to get even more informed on water balance and related topics, check out Orenda’s library of educational videos, tutorials, and other resources. 

Step 1: Download the Orenda App

The journey to balanced pool water begins with a simple download of the Orenda app, available on both iOS and Android platforms. This app significantly simplifies pool chemistry, particularly focusing on the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI), making it an indispensable tool for pool owners.

 

 

Step 2: Input Your Pool Details

Once you have downloaded and opened the app, the first step is to input your pool’s specific details, such as the volume of your pool in gallons and the water temperature, which are critical for accurate calculations. The app’s user-friendly interface guides you through entering these initial details.

 

Step 3: Enter Current Water Chemistry Levels

The next step involves inputting the current levels of various water chemistry variables that influence your pool’s LSI.

These include: 

• Water temperature
• pH level
• Calcium Hardness
• Total Alkalinity
• Cyanuric Acid stabilizer
• Total Dissolved Solids

You’ll find a section on the left-hand side of the app dedicated to entering these values. Precise measurements at this stage are crucial for accurately assessing your pool’s water balance. 

Also, note that the app includes levels for Chlorine and Phosphates. While these values don’t affect the LSI, they are essential in maintaining a healthy and safe pool.

 

Step 4: Adjusting for Optimal LSI

After entering your pool’s details and current chemistry levels, the real magic begins. The app allows you to tweak and adjust the values on the right-hand side of the screen to see how changes can affect your pool’s LSI. 

The goal is to adjust these levels until you achieve a desired LSI value within the optimal range of -0.3 to +0.3. Note that for saltwater pools, we recommend a slightly tighter range of -0.2 to +0.2 to account for the unique chemistry of saltwater systems.

The app’s LSI indicator is highlighted in different colors depending on the status. 

•   Over +0.30 is coded PURPLE, meaning your water can cause scaling on your equipment and gelcoat surface. 
• -0.30 to +0.30 is coded GREEN to indicate the ideal LSI balance. 
• -0.30 to -0.01 is YELLOW, meaning you’re close to balance but not quite there. 
• < -0.30 is coded RED to alert you to corrosive water that can damage your pool equipment and gelcoat surface.

The ideal target is as close to zero as possible. This interactive feature allows you to experiment with different adjustments to understand how each factor may affect your pool’s overall balance.

 

 

Step 5: Calculate and Correct

After adjusting your inputs to reach the ideal LSI range, hitting the “Calculate” button creates a customized list of actions and products needed to balance your pool water. It tells you what needs to be adjusted and recommends specific chemicals and quantities to achieve the desired balance. This step eliminates guesswork, ensuring you use the right products in the right amounts.

Step 6: Implement Recommendations

With a tailored action plan, the final step is implementing the app’s recommendations. Whether adjusting the pH, adding calcium hardness increaser, or balancing total alkalinity, follow the guidelines to bring your pool water into harmony.

Why Use the Orenda App?

Simplifies Complex Calculations

The Orenda app demystifies the complexity of water chemistry, breaking it down into simple and manageable steps. This guidance ensures that pool owners can maintain their pool’s health without needing deep technical knowledge.

Saves Time and Money

By providing precise recommendations, the app helps pool owners avoid over- or under-treating their pool, saving money on chemicals and preventing potential damage to the pool’s surface or equipment.

Enhances Pool Enjoyment

Regularly using the Orenda app to balance your pool water means clearer, safer water and a more enjoyable swimming experience for you and your family. It also extends the lifespan of your pool by preventing damage and other issues related to imbalanced water.

Balancing your pool water using the LSI doesn’t have to be daunting. With the Orenda Technologies LSI Calculator, achieving and maintaining optimal water balance is easier and more intuitive than ever. By following the simple steps outlined above and taking advantage of the app’s smart recommendations, you can ensure your pool remains an enjoyable oasis for years to come.