#1 Local Pool Service Company

Answer:
Balancing your pool’s water chemistry is essential for several reasons: it keeps the water safe and comfortable to swim in, protects your pool equipment, and helps prevent the growth of algae and bacteria. Improper chemical levels can cause issues like skin and eye irritation, corrosion of equipment, and cloudy or discolored water.

The main factors to monitor in your pool’s water chemistry include:

• pH Level: pH measures how acidic or basic the water is. The ideal range is between 7.2 and 7.6. If the pH is too high or low, it can irritate swimmers’ skin and eyes and reduce chlorine’s effectiveness.
• Chlorine: Chlorine is the primary sanitizer in your pool, killing harmful bacteria and algae. Aim for 1.0 to 3.0 parts per million (ppm) for effective sanitization.
• Total Alkalinity: This acts as a buffer for the pH, preventing sudden changes. The ideal range is 80 to 120 ppm. Proper alkalinity helps keep your pH level stable, which in turn helps chlorine remain effective.
• Calcium Hardness: This prevents water from becoming too “soft” or “hard.” Too little calcium can corrode metal surfaces, while too much causes scaling (white mineral deposits). The ideal range is 200 to 400 ppm.

At South Mountain Pool Kings, we perform regular water testing and adjustments to keep these factors in check, but regular testing on your own can help catch imbalances early. We also offer a Basic Water Chemistry Guide that teaches you how to test and interpret these levels.

Answer:
Regular pool filter cleaning is crucial to maintaining clean, clear water and efficient filtration. We recommend cleaning your pool filter at least every three months under normal conditions. However, if your pool sees heavy use, experiences lots of debris from trees, or is subject to dust storms (common in Phoenix), more frequent cleanings may be needed.

If filters aren’t cleaned regularly, they can become clogged with debris and contaminants, which reduces water flow. This can cause several issues:

• Increased Pressure: Clogged filters lead to higher pressure in the filtration system, which can strain the pump and decrease its lifespan.
• Reduced Water Clarity: A dirty filter won’t effectively remove particles, leading to cloudy water or algae growth.
• Increased Chemical Demand: When water doesn’t circulate properly, it can be harder to maintain the chemical balance, requiring more frequent adjustments.

For clients on a service plan, South Mountain Pool Kings handles filter cleaning on a scheduled basis and checks the system pressure to determine if earlier cleaning is required. We provide reminders on our service visits and recommend scheduling extra cleaning when necessary.

Answer:
Calcium buildup, also known as scaling, is a common issue in pools, especially in areas like Phoenix where the water is hard (high in minerals). Scaling occurs when calcium and other minerals in the water settle on pool surfaces, forming white deposits on tiles, especially around the waterline.

Causes of Calcium Buildup:

• High Calcium Hardness: Water with a high calcium hardness level (above 400 ppm) is more likely to leave behind deposits.
• High pH Levels: Higher pH causes calcium to precipitate out of the water, making scaling worse.
• Water Evaporation: As water evaporates, minerals are left behind, creating visible deposits on tiles and surfaces that frequently get wet and dry.

Prevention:

• Keep Calcium Hardness in Check: Regular water testing and adjustments help prevent calcium from reaching levels that contribute to scaling.
• Maintain Proper pH Levels: Keeping the pH in the 7.2 to 7.6 range can minimize scale formation.
• Periodic Cleaning: Regular scrubbing of tiles, along with acid washes if necessary, can help remove light buildup and prevent severe scaling.

At South Mountain Pool Kings, we perform calcium hardness testing during routine visits and will recommend treatments if scaling becomes significant. For clients facing persistent calcium issues, we offer calcium removal services or can recommend a partial water replacement to lower mineral levels.

Answer:
Heavy debris from storms, such as leaves, dirt, and branches, can significantly affect your pool’s cleanliness and chemistry. Here’s what you can do to help restore your pool after a storm and what to expect from your next service visit:

1. Skim Large Debris: Use a leaf skimmer to remove large debris from the surface as soon as possible. This will prevent the debris from sinking and clogging the pool’s filtration system.
2. Check the Pump and Skimmer Baskets: Storm debris can quickly clog these baskets. Clear them out to ensure proper water flow and prevent strain on your pump.
3. Run the Filter Longer: Increase the filtering time for the day after a storm to help clear out smaller particles.
4. Test and Adjust Water Chemistry: Heavy debris can alter your pool’s pH and chlorine levels. Testing and adjusting your chemicals can help prevent algae growth and other issues.

Service Visits After a Storm:
South Mountain Pool Kings will perform a thorough cleaning during your next scheduled visit, including additional skimming, brushing, and chemical adjustments. If you require a rapid recovery of the pool’s condition or an unscheduled visit, please contact us directly for assistance, as this may involve an additional fee based on the time required.