How Often Should You Test Your Pool Water?

Factors to Consider When Testing Pool Water

If you're like most people, chances are you enjoy spending time in your pool during the summer. However, before jumping in, it's important to make sure the water is safe to swim in. 

Here are some factors to consider when testing pool water:

• Chlorine Levels

The ideal chlorine level for a pool is between one and three parts per million (ppm). You should test your pool water at least twice a week to ensure that the chlorine levels are within this range. If the levels are too low, it could mean that your pool is not being properly sanitized. Too high of a chlorine level can also be dangerous, and can cause skin and eye irritation.

• Cyanuric Acid

Cyanuric acid is a chemical used to stabilize chlorine in pool water. It is important to maintain the proper level of CYA in your pool, as too little can allow algae to grow and too much can make your chlorine ineffective. The recommended range for CYA levels is 30-50 ppm. You should test your pool water at least once a week, or more often if you notice any changes in the water quality. If you find that your CYA levels are too low, you can add a stabilizer to your pool.  You can also raise the level by partially draining your pool and refilling it with fresh water. If your CYA levels are too high, you will need to partially drain your pool and replace the water.

• pH Level

If the pH level is too low, it can cause skin and eye irritation. If the pH level is too high, it can make chlorine less effective. You should test your pool water frequently, at least two to three times a week to make sure that the pH levels are where they should be. You can test the pH levels yourself with a home testing kit or you can take a sample of your pool water to a local pool store to have it tested.

• Acid Demand Test

The acid demand test is the most important test you can do to ensure your pool water is balanced. This test will tell you how much acid or base is needed to adjust the pH and alkalinity levels in your pool. This test should be performed every two weeks.

• Total Alkalinity

Total Alkalinity levels that are too high or too low can be detrimental to your pool, and pH levels that are out of balance can cause skin and eye irritation. For these reasons, it's important to test your pool water at least once a week. The frequency with which you should test your pool water will depend on some factors, including how often the pool is used, the type of filtration system you have, and the weather conditions in your area. Testing more often may be necessary if you have noticed any changes in the water quality or if you have had recent heavy rainfalls.

• Total Dissolved Solids

Total Dissolved Solids is a measure of the combined content of all inorganic and organic substances contained in water. The ideal TDS level for pool water is between 500-1500 ppm. If the TDS level in your pool is too high, it can cause skin irritation, staining, and scale formation. 

If the TDS level is too low, it can lead to corrosion and etching of surfaces. To maintain a healthy TDS level in your pool, you should test the water monthly and adjust accordingly. You can use a home testing kit or take a sample of your pool water to a local pool store for analysis.

• Salinity / Salt Levels

The ideal salt level for a pool is between 2700 - 4000 parts per million (ppm). You can test your pool's salt levels with a salt tester, which you can purchase at most pool supply stores. Most experts recommend testing your salt levels at least once a month.

• Calcium Hardness

You should test for calcium hardness at least twice a year, and adjust the level if necessary. High levels of calcium can cause scale build-up on pool surfaces and equipment. Low levels can lead to corrosion.

• Metals

It's important to have your water tested for metals every 3-4 months. If you detect any of these elements in the sample, it means their source is likely somewhere near where they were measured and should be removed before there causes permanent damage or stain on surfaces.

How often you test your pool water will depend on a few factors, such as chlorine levels, cyanuric acid, pH level, and acid demand. Call us today so we can help you develop a testing schedule that takes all of these into account. We can also provide you with the necessary supplies to keep your pool looking and performing its best.