How To Balance Pool Chemicals For Beginners

Why Balancing Your Pool Chemicals Matters

As a pool owner in New Zealand, keeping your pool water clean and safe is essential. Balanced water not only keeps your pool looking great but also prevents damage to pool equipment and surfaces. The good news is that maintaining the right chemical levels doesn’t have to be complicated!

In this guide, we’ll break down the basics of pool chemicals, how to test your water, and how to adjust your levels to keep your pool crystal clear all summer long.

Understanding Pool Chemicals

There are a few key chemicals that every pool owner needs to monitor closely:

1. pH Levels

Ideal range: 7.2 – 7.6
pH affects how well other chemicals work. If it’s too high, chlorine becomes less effective, and if it’s too low, the water can become corrosive.

2. Chlorine

Ideal range: 1 – 3 ppm (parts per million)
Chlorine helps kill bacteria and algae. In New Zealand, many homeowners use either liquid chlorine, granular chlorine, or chlorine tablets.

3. Total Alkalinity (TA)

Ideal range: 80 – 120 ppm
Alkalinity helps stabilise pH levels. If it’s too low, pH can fluctuate too much; if it’s too high, the water may become cloudy.

4. Calcium Hardness

Ideal range: 180 – 250 ppm
Calcium hardness prevents pool surfaces from eroding. Too much can cause scaling, while too little can lead to damage to concrete or plaster surfaces.

5. Stabiliser (Cyanuric Acid)

Ideal range: 30 – 50 ppm
This helps protect chlorine from being broken down too quickly in sunlight, which is particularly important during New Zealand’s hot summer months.

How To Test Your Pool Water

Before adding any chemicals, you need to test your pool water to see what adjustments are necessary. You can test your water using:

Test strips – Quick and easy, just dip them in the water and compare the colours to a chart.
Liquid test kits – Slightly more accurate than strips but require some mixing.
Digital testers – These provide precise readings but are more expensive.
Professional testing – Many pool shops, like Para Rubber or Pool & Spa Warehouse, offer free water testing.

Test your pool at least twice a week in summer and once a week in winter.

Adjusting Your Pool Chemicals

Once you know your water levels, it’s time to make adjustments.

1. Adjusting pH

If pH is too high, add pH Reducer (sodium bisulfate) or liquid hydrochloric acid.
If pH is too low, add pH Increaser (sodium carbonate, also known as soda ash).

2. Adding Chlorine

Choose between liquid chlorine, chlorine granules, or chlorine tablets.
For a quick shock dose, use pool shock (calcium hypochlorite).
If using saltwater, check your chlorinator is working properly.

3. Balancing Total Alkalinity

If TA is low, add baking soda (sodium bicarbonate).
If TA is high, use pH reducer to lower it gradually.

4. Adjusting Calcium Hardness

If too low, add calcium chloride to prevent surface damage.
If too high, dilute with fresh water (partially drain and refill the pool).

5. Stabilising Your Chlorine

If stabiliser (cyanuric acid) is too low, add stabiliser granules.
If too high, partially drain and refill with fresh water to dilute.

Pool Maintenance Tips for New Zealand Homeowners

✔ Regular Cleaning – Skim leaves/dirt, vacuum the pool, and clean filters weekly.
✔ Maintain Water Levels – Rain and evaporation affect pool levels, so top up as needed.
✔ Shock Your Pool – Use pool shock every few weeks to kill bacteria and algae.
✔ Watch the Weather – After heavy rain or extreme heat, test and adjust chemicals accordingly.

For New Zealand-specific pool maintenance products, check out:

Keeping Your Pool Safe and Enjoyable

Balancing your pool chemicals is key to a safe and enjoyable swimming environment. By regularly testing and adjusting your pool water, you’ll keep it sparkling clear and ready for summer fun.

If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to visit a local pool shop for advice or professional water testing. Happy swimming!

Pool Owners New Zealand