Aquaguard AGWAV20, Owner'S Manual, Page: 8 / 24

Water Preperation & Tips on Water Chemistry
continued
How to adjust pH
A pH range of 7.2 – 7.6 is ideal for maximum comfort and minimum chlorine demand. Always adjust
total alkalinity before adjus � ng pH. Low pH (acidic water) leads to s � nging eyes and corrosion of open
metal fi� ngs. If the pH is below 7.0
AND
the Total Alkalinity is below 80 ppm, use Soda Ash to adjust.
First, test for metals. Consult your pool professional regarding which chemical is best for your situa � on
and the proper amount to use. Check the pH a � er 4 hours of circula � on, adjus � ng as necessary to
achieve the proper range.
High pH (alkaline water) leads to clouding of the water and reduces the e ff ec � veness and amount of
ac � ve chlorine. This means algae and germs can grow. Lower the pH by adding muria � c acid to the
pool water. The acid demand indicated by your 4-in-1 test kit will show the amount of acid to use. If
your pH remains inconsistent, check your total alkalinity.
Total alkalinity a ff ects pH
Total Alkalinity (TA) is the measure of bicarbonates, carbonates, hydroxides and other alkaline
substances found in pool water. Alkalinity is de fi ned as the ability of the water to resist changes in pH;
also known as the bu ff ering capacity of the water, Alkalinity keeps the pH from "bouncing" all over the
place . TA is o � en confused with pH, which it a ff ects. If TA is too low, the pH will be di ffi cult to maintain
and may cause staining of pool surfaces. Total alkalinity should be in the range of 80 – 100 PPM.
To raise total alkalinity, it is necessary to add pH bu ff er (sodium bicarbonate) at the rate shown in the
manufacturer’s instruc � ons to reach the 80 – 100 PPM range. 1.5 lbs. of sodium bicarbonate raises
10,000 gallons of pool water by 10 PPM.
To lower the total alkalinity, use muria � c acid. The acid demand chart in your 4-in-1 test kit will indicate
the necessary amount to add. Adjust as needed un � l the reading (taken at least 24 hours later) is in the
80 – 100 PPM range. When TA is correct, you may need to adjust pH . Low TA levels (below 80 PPM)
will cause pool water to become acidic. Corrosion of the electroly � c cell caused by low TA levels will
not be covered under the three year limited warranty.
Use Chlorine Stabilizer to Protect Chlorine Residual
Chlorine stabilizer, also known as condi � oner, acts as a sun-screen for chlorine on outdoor pools and
minimizes it from being destroyed too quickly by the Sun’s ultra-violet rays; it helps the chlorine last
longer and reduces consump � on. Chlorine stabilizer should be added according the manufacturer’s
instruc � ons to achieve a level of 20-30 PPM, depending on the geographical climate. It is crucial to stay
within this range, as high condi � oner levels can lead to algae growth and other problems. The only way
to reduce the concentra � on of condi � oner is to (par � ally) drain the pool water and then re fi ll the pool
to bring the level to the recommended 20-30 PPM.
Salt Requirements
The system is engineered to operate in a broad salt range with a minimum of 3,000 PPM; a residual of
3,000 to 4,000 PPM is recommended at all � mes for peak e ffi ciency and best results. The system can also
handle special applica � on salt levels of up to 35,000 PPM without any adverse e ff ects to the unit.
NOTE:
HIGH salt level above 8,000 PPM may cause corrosion problems with metallic fi xtures, light rings,
ladders and handrails.
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