🌊 The Science Behind Pool Chemistry
- Natalie Moore
- Sep 23, 2025
- 2 min read
A swimming pool is like a small ecosystem. Left alone, it collects bacteria, algae, oils, and debris whether you swim in it or not. Pool chemistry keeps it safe, comfortable, and clear.
🔹 Sanitization
Chlorine: Most common method; creates hypochlorous acid (HOCl) that kills bacteria and viruses.
Saltwater: Uses electrolysis to generate chlorine from dissolved salt.
Alternatives: Ozone, UV, or hydrogen-based systems sanitize without adding chlorine directly.
🔹 pH Balance
Ideal: 7.2–7.8 (close to human tears).
Too low = acidic, corrodes equipment, stings eyes.
Too high = cloudy water, itchy skin, weak sanitizer.
🔹 Alkalinity & Calcium
Total Alkalinity (80–120 ppm): Buffers pH swings.
Calcium Hardness (200–400 ppm): Too little erodes plaster; too much causes scaling.
🔹 Stabilizer (Cyanuric Acid)
Protects chlorine from sunlight.
Too little = chlorine burns off quickly.
Too much = chlorine becomes sluggish.
✅ How to Keep a Pool Safe to Swim
Maintain sanitizer: 1–3 ppm chlorine, or manufacturer’s recommended level for alternative systems.
Test often: Use test strips/kits 2–3 times a week; get professional testing monthly.
Balance chemistry: Keep pH, alkalinity, and calcium in range.
Shock when needed: Oxidize contaminants after heavy use or storms.
Run circulation & filtration daily: Keeps water moving and clean.
Remove debris: Skim, vacuum, and brush walls weekly.
Watch for warning signs: Cloudiness, algae, or strong “chlorine smell” (often from chloramines) mean chemistry is off.
🔬 Bottom line: Whether you swim in your pool every day or hardly at all, you still need to tend to it—otherwise water chemistry will shift, bacteria will grow, and equipment will suffer. The Fusion 44X system solves this by keeping constant attention on your pool, automatically maintaining balance and sanitation so your water stays safe, clear, and ready when you are.
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