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SOME TIPS ON WATER CHEMISTRY
27
USE OF ALGAECIDES AND PHOSPHATE REMOVERS
Algaecides may be used in conjunction with a DuoClear system but are usually not necessary. Only
use ammonia based poly-quat algaecides. Do not use copper based algaecides. Phosphate removers
may also be used in conjunction with a DuoClear system and may be helpful in high phosphate
regions where algae growth can be a problem. Phosphates enter the water from a variety of
sources such as fertilizer, soaps and run off. High phosphate levels will cause chlorine destruction.
Contact your local pool professional for phosphate testing and information regarding the presence
of phosphates in your local area. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions for treatment.
The chlorine and copper from the DuoClear system is the best defence against algae and is usually
all that is necessary. If algae are observed however, brush spot thoroughly, adjust pH,
superchlorinate with your DuoClear system or manually shock pool water with either liquid or
granular chlorine. A chlorine residual should be measurable within 24 hours. If not, repeat shock
treatment (see page 29). After shocking, check to ensure that the DuoClear system is maintaining a
residual chlorine level to prevent future algae growth.With extreme algae conditions, manually
shocking the pool is the best option.
NOTE: Overuse of algaecides can lead to a reduction in chlorine residual because algaecides can
negatively react with the chlorine produced by the DuoClear system. When using algaecides,
always follow manufacturer's instructions and adjust the output of the DuoClear system to
maintain a residual chlorine level.
The addition of certain chemicals can reduce the effectiveness of chlorine. Always make sure that
proper residual chlorine levels are maintained to avoid illness.
USE OF SEQUESTERING AGENTS
In some areas the total hardness of your source water may be unusually high. High total
hardness can contribute to scale formation in the pool. Sequestering agents will help keep
minerals in solution and under some conditions can prevent this from happening. Consult your
pool professional about the use of a sequestering agent.
USE OF CHLORINE STABILIZER (CYANURIC ACID) TO PROTECT
CHLORINE RESIDUAL.
Cyanuric acts as a sun-screen for chlorine and prevents chlorine from being too quickly
destroyed by the sun. Chlorine stabilizer is essential to prolong the life of chlorine in the pool
water. It should be added following the manufacturer’s instructions to achieve a level of 30 – 100
ppm depending on geographical climate. Refer to Stabilizer Chart on page 25.