Swimming Pool Chemicals
Having the proper chemical balance is important to prevent the water becoming too corrosive or producing heavy calcium deposits, especially during the off-season. Start the pool closing process by doing the following water balance tests:
Use a pool test kit to and this chart to measure water chemical levels following the manufacturer’s instructions.
| Water Chemistry Test | Concentration Level |
| pH | 7.2 – 7.6 |
| Total Alkalinity | 80-125 ppm* for plaster/gunite pools
80-125 ppm* for plaster/gunite pools |
| Water Hardness(Calcium) | 175-225 ppm |
| Chlorine Stabilizer | at least 30 ppm |
| Free Chlorine | 1.0-4.0 ppm |
| *parts-per-million (ppm) |
Before you begin closing your pool for the off-season, refer to pool equipment instructions. Also, make sure that you have adequate chemicals and tools for the job. If you have any questions about closing your pool, discuss the task with a Lowe’s associate or call a professional for help.
Step 1
Check and adjust pH, the level of acidic and alkaline qualities in liquids.
- Pool pH should be between 7.2 and 7.6.
- If lower, add pH increaser.
- If higher, add pH decreaser.
- After adjusting, wait one hour before continuing tests.
Step 2
Check and adjust water hardness to the proper level of calcium in the water.
- Calcium levels should be between 175 and 225 parts-per-million (ppm) for all pool types.
- To increase the level, add calcium hardness increaser.
- To decrease, drain some of the water and refill with source water that has a lower calcium level.
Step 3
Check and adjust alkalinity (how well the water resists a change in pH levels) as needed.
- Alkalinity should be 80-125 ppm for plaster/gunite pools, and 125-150 ppm for other pool types.
- If lower, add total alkalinity increaser.
- If higher, add pH decreaser.
- After adjusting, wait two hours before continuing tests.
Step 4
Check and adjust chlorine level in the pool water. Chlorine is what kills all the bacteria, viruses and germs in the water. However, the sun’s UV rays can diminish its effectiveness, so pool water also needs a chlorine stabilizer.
- Check the stabilizer level and adjust to 30 ppm.
- Check the chlorine level and adjust to 1 to 4 ppm.
Always wear safety goggles and rubber gloves when working with the chemicals. Also make sure you read and follow each product’s directions including how to use and how to store the chemicals.
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