A delicate balance of chemicals should be added to your home swimming pool to keep all users safe from germs and possible illnesses. The right chemicals are needed to disinfect the pool, control the water pH, prevent algae, and stop the corrosion and scaling of equipment. Use this guide to determine what you need to take care of your swimming hole. 

What Chemicals Are Safe to Use on Home Pools?

The primary chemical used by most home swimming pools is chlorine. It both sanitizes and oxidizes—also known as “shocking”— the water to remove any unwanted algae or bacteria. However, chlorine is known to dry out the skin and hair.

As a result, some homeowners prefer to add potassium monopersulfate instead or in addition to their chlorine treatment. This chemical is effective for shocking water, but will not sanitize it. However, it does last longer than chlorine, and it allows the chlorine to work more efficiently, so you can use less chlorine to keep your pool disinfected. 

Sodium carbonate and sodium bisulfate come in handy for maintaining the proper pH level. While the former will help to raise the pH, the latter decreases it. Calcium chloride can also be added if the water hardness is too low, and cyanuric acid will protect the chlorine from being destroyed by ultraviolet rays so it will last longer. 

How Should You Store Pool Chemicals?

Keep all of your swimming pool chemicals in a temperature-controlled room away from direct sunlight and moisture. Make sure to place all individually stored chemicals away from other substances to prevent accidental mixture. Also, remove any flammable items or substances like gasoline from the space, and do not allow anyone to smoke near the room.

When you need the right supplies to take care of your swimming pool, head to Distinctive Swimming Pools in Washington Depot, CT. Since 1989, this family-owned business has been the one-stop-shop for swimming pool maintenance, repairs, installations. They also carry a wide range of name-brand equipment, pool chemicals, and parts at their retail store and are able to make special orders for any unique need. Call them today at (860) 868-3622 to find out how they can help you take care of your pool, and visit their website to learn more about the products they carry.