"We know the service staff at The Pool Man is always available if we need them. And, they're prompt and reliable."
~ Mrs. Woods,
Athens, OH
|
Pool Owners
(You might consider printing out the section below, for easy reference purposes.)
POOL CHEMISTRY
Today, there are several types of sanitizers available for the homeowner to maintain clean, clear pool water. While chlorine remains the most common, recent advancements in technology have increased the use of automatic water purification such as chlorine generators and alternate sanitizers such as mineral ionization, ozone, bromine and biguanide. The following information will focus on chlorine use and the other most popular chemical sanitizer systems we provide with your new pool.
A good understanding of water chemistry will help you effectively maintain your pool water clarity and safety. A pH value reading that is too low or too high, as well as the presence of algae, suspended dirt, or various minerals in your water, can severely affect its quality. It is a common fallacy among pool owners that the use of chlorine can correct any water problem. In reality, it may take a few chemicals working in conjunction with one another to ensure that your family will enjoy clean, healthy pool water every day for the entire season.
There are many advantages to buying only Premium Quality Chemicals. They will do the job longer and more efficiently, will not harm valuable pool parts, and will save you money in the long run. Not only are they specifically designed to maintain your water chemistry at a level appropriate for your pool, but they are apt to keep their original strength during storage. All Premium Quality Chemical chlorine tablets are stabilized, which means that they are better protected against deterioration from sunlight and will remain in your pool far longer than non-stabilized products. Since many chlorine products on the market today are available in different formulations and concentrations, you should check read the label and check with a pool professional before you buy. Also, Calcium Hypochlorite products are strong but, they can discolor your pool liner if they are not added to the pool water properly.
While the control of water chemistry is relatively easy, many people rely far too much on chlorine to do the entire job. If the water pH is out of balance or unstable, the use of pH products (increaser or decreaser) can bring it into the proper range of 7.2 to 7.8, more ideally to 7.4 to 7.6 . This range will significantly increase the effectiveness of your sanitizer and reduce the amount of chlorine and the number of dosages necessary to maintain water clarity. Fine suspended dirt particles (turbidity) can be remedied by using Premium Quality Water Clarifiers if you are using a sand filter. Vinyl Liner cleaner/treatment will clean your vinyl liner easily without clouding or creating suds. Metal and Mineral removers can help to clear up discolored, cloudy water by coagulating and filtering out these metal and mineral particles before they can cause mineral deposits and surface staining.
You can purchase your Premium Quality Chemicals through our Retail store located at 4106 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio or if it's more convenient call us at 1-800-529-2564 to have your order shipped to your door.
HOW TO ADD CHEMICALS
In general, chlorine tablets should be dispensed using an automatic feeder or floater. Chlorine shock treatment products are recommended to be pre-dissolved and dosed into the pool water directly with the filtration system running. Chlorine should be added late in the evening while the filter is operating so the sun will not reduce the effectiveness of this product. Liquid chemicals should not be mixed with any other pool chemicals and added directly into the pool water.
WARNING:
- NEVER mix chemicals - add them to the pool separately
- ALWAYS add chemicals to water - not water to chemicals
- ALWAYS store pool chemicals in a dry place out of the reach of children
- When handling and adding pool chemicals, always read the instructions carefully and follow the manufacturer's directions.
WATER CHEMISTRY GUIDELINES
WATER BALANCE WATER BALANCE with FROG
Chlorine: 1.0 - 3.0 ppm Chlorine:
.5 - 1
PH: 7.2 - 7.8 pH (with both)
Alkalinity: 80- 140 ppm |
- Always make sure your pool has adequate circulation. The pool water must circulate through the filtration system at least 8 - 12 hours per day, preferably during daylight hours.
- Before beginning with any pool care program, you must test and balance your pool water.
- If your pool water tests high in metals, you may need to add a metal and mineral remover the pool water and clean the filter.
- After your pool water is balanced you need to continue to test your water on a weekly basis.
- Check the pool filter gauge occasionally and clean the filter as it may require. A dirty filter will slow the flow of water which could create improper water clarity and increase chemical demand.
FROG CHEMICAL FEEDER SYSTEM
Many new pools come with the FROG Mineral Ionization Feeder (Cycler) system and a video to instruct on maintenance of this system. FROG is a mineral-based water purification system that can replace much of the need to use chlorine products. FROG stands for Fresh Reservoir Oxy Generator.
All chemical feeders should always be installed last in-line, downstream from filters and heaters.
- Test your pool water
with test strips.
- Adjust your pH and Alkalinity, bringing them into water balance.
- Shock pool water with chlorine shock only and pre-dissolve for best results.
- Insert the mineral cartridge into the Cycler reservoir with the
(empty) flow control pac into the cycler unit and replace the Cycler feeder cap. Run the filter system with the maximum setting on the cycler for 10 minutes.
- Turn off the filter and remove the cycler cap. Remove the empty flow control pac and replace it with a Low Chlorine delivery Bac Pac after removing the red tab. Replace cycler cap and turn on the filter.
- Test the water daily for 1 week to ensure proper chlorine residual level of 0.5 - 1.0 ppm.
- Run filter 8 - 12 hours daily. If it is necessary to increase the chlorine level, adjust the dial setting on the Cycler in ― increments only.
REPLACING FROG BAC PAC
- Remove caps on bottom
of bac pac.
- Turn bac pac over and
shake slightly until tablets fall into
tower areas.
- Line up the small leg on the Bac Pac with the small opening in the Cycler reservoir and the large leg with the large opening. Lower the Bac Pac into the reservoir until it's secure.
- Do not over tighten.
- Check to ensure that Cycle side drain valve is screwed in and secure.
If, at any time, you have
questions regarding your pool water, do
not hesitate to call our customer service
department.
Return to Top
FROG System Installation
Supplies: 6" nipple
and teflon tape (included with Cycler),
hose adapter and hose (usually included
with filter), pipe wrench, screwdriver and
check valve (optional).
- Apply teflon tape to
both ends of 6" nipple.
- Screw one end of nipple into filter head outlet. (note the flow direction arrow on the feeder) Hand-tighten or just snug it in using a wrench. Do not over-tighten.
- Screw left port of Cycler on to other end of nipple until upright and secure.
- Apply Teflon tape to threads of the hose adapter and screw into the right port of the Cycler. Hand-tighten or just snug it in using a wrench. Do not over-tighten.
- On above ground pools,
installing a check valve is optional.
Installation with a Heater - Install a pool heater at least 5-10" away from the cycler. Make sure that the Cycler is installed last in line, down stream from the heater.
Supplies: Hacksaw or PVC
cutter, PVC cement, check valve (recommended
if using Bac Pac).
- Following PVC cement directions, apply to both the pipe and the inside of the slip bushings on both ends of the Cycler.
- Insert PVC pipe into Cycler ends and hold in place 5 to 10 seconds to bond.
- If you have a Pool Heater installed: A check valve is recommended if you are also using the optional chlorine Bac Pacs.
Return to Top
FROG Start-Up
- Add a stabilizer or
conditioner to the pool at the beginning
of the season. This will prevent
chlorine burn-off. Follow manufacturer's
directions carefully.
- Shock the pool with
chlorine to rid the water of all contaminants
before beginning with FROG. Follow
manufacturer's directions carefully.
WARNING: Do not add shock in or near the
skimmer or into the Cycler as it could
damage equipment, risk potential explosion
or discolor your deck surface...THIS STEP
IS VERY IMPORTANT TO START-UP. USE
CHLORINE SHOCK ONLY.
After the chlorine reading has lowered to 0.5 ppm to 1.0 ppm, install the FROG Mineral Ionization cartridge into the Cycler reservoir and replace the Cycler cap.
Run Cycler with the cartridge inserted for 10 minutes on Maximum setting.
Open the Cycler cap and remove empty Flow Control Pac and discard, if using the chlorine Bac Pac. Insert chlorine Bac Pac.
Set the Control Dial.
SET CONTROL DIAL BY MATCHING UP THE PARAMETERS
OF YOUR POOL ON THE CHARTS BELOW. THIS
IS A STARTING POINT ONLY
| Above Grd Pools
|
8hr
Pump
Run Time
Pump Size |
12hr
Pump
Run Time
Pump Size |
24hr
Pump
Run Time
Pump Size |
| Gal |
Swim Area |
1/2 |
3/4 |
1 |
1 1/2 |
1/2 |
3/4 |
1 |
1 1/2 |
1/2 |
3/4 |
1 |
1 1/2 |
| 7,000 |
12x20 |
6 |
5.5 |
5 |
4.5 |
5.5 |
5 |
4 |
*6 |
4.5 |
4 |
4 |
*5 |
| 8,500 |
12x24 |
6.5 |
6 |
5.5 |
5 |
6 |
5.5 |
5 |
*6.5 |
5 |
4.5 |
4 |
*5.5 |
| 11,500 |
16x24 |
7 |
6.5 |
6 |
5.5 |
6.5 |
5 |
5.5 |
5 |
5.5 |
5 |
4.5 |
*6 |
| 15,000 |
16x32 |
NR |
7 |
6.5 |
6 |
5.5 |
6.5 |
6 |
5.5 |
6 |
5.5 |
5 |
4.5 |
* Bypass installation recommended
NR - This pump size is not recommended for a pool this size when using a FROG.
- For one week test the pool water daily for free chlorine to ensure correct dial setting. Dip and Read Test strips are recommended.
After each water test, adjust the dial up by 1/2 increment IF the free chlorine reading has dropped below 0.5 ppm or adjust down by 1/2 increment if the reading has risen above 1.0 ppm. Continue this process each day until the chlorine reading stabilizes between 0.5 and 1.0 ppm.
Remember to adjust dial by 1/2 increments only. Higher than suggested settings could result in over-chlorination and/or bleached pool surfaces.
Return to
Top
Operating the Flow-Control T-Valve
The T-Valve is the device that controls the flow of water from the top skimmer and bottom drain of the pool supplied to the pump on our Above Ground and KayakŪ Pools. The position of the "T" handle determines how much of the water flow is coming from the skimmer and how much is from the main drain.
OPERATING THE BALL VALVE
The Flow Control valve has a handle that is labeled with the letter "T". Turning the handle controls the flow of water from the top skimmer the bottom main drain to the pump. When the top of the letter "T" points toward one of the plumbing flow line openings (ports) coming from either the skimmer or bottom main drain, that opening is shut off from flowing or closed. The normal operating position setting for the valve is for all ports open so that the skimmer and main drain flows will compliment one another. When you want to drain some water from the pool, especially below the skimmer, turn the handle so that the top of the "T" is pointing toward the plumbing line/port coming from the top skimmer. Now the skimmer is closed. If you want to vacuum the pool, turn the valve handle so that the top of the letter "T" is pointing toward the main drain plumbing line/port to close the bottom drain. Now all of the water supply to the pump will be coming from the skimmer only and we will have a strong vacuum water flow to clean the pool. When you need to clean the pump strainer basket, turn the pump off and point the top of the "T" toward the pump strainer basket port. This closes all water flow to the pump from both the skimmer and bottom drain lines.
WARNING: WHENEVER YOU TURN
THE HANDLE ON THE VALVE, ALWAYS TURN OFF
THE PUMP TO PREVENT ANY POSSIBLE DAMAGE.
Return to Top
Start with clean, clear water (vacuum if necessary)
Sand filter and Cartridge filter
1. Some companies still believe that lowering the water level in the pool is the best way to winterize a pool. We however, do not recommend this process. There are many benefits to following our practice. Lowering the water level shortens your liner life. It will dry out and shrink a little every year leading to a prematurely liner replacement. The winter covers made today will fit your pool better without stressing the material or pulling the water tubes into the pool. The key to our method is to properly protect the top skimmer from cracking due to ice expansion by using either an Aquador or a Gizzmo, (ice expansion protector/skimmer guard) in the skimmer and using a winter plug to cap your return inlet. Plus, you can close your pool much faster and no water waste!
2. POOL PREPARATION
- Remove in-pool ladder
by loosening set screws in ladder flange.
- Remove return inlet jet fitting from the wall return.
- Remove skimmer basket and weir door.
- Clean the top of the vinyl liner with Tile & Vinyl Cleaner.
3. ADD WINTERIZING CHEMICALS
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions per chemical containers for correct application and safety procedures. Administer winterizing chemicals into pool water. Never mix chemicals together.
- Run the filtration system to thoroughly distribute chemicals.
- To winterize the pump & filter, follow the manufactures instructions in their manual. Never allow water to remain in the pump, filter or feeders during freezing temperatures to prevent equipment damage.
- Disconnect the bottom drain plumbing line from the "T" valve at the quick disconnect and elevate the end of this line higher than the water level in the pool. Secure the hose to the pool structure in this upright position. You do not need to add anti-freeze to this line. Do not cap or plug this line.
- Disconnect the skimmer plumbing line from the "T" valve and let it lay on the ground.
Return to Top
Do Not drain your pool or lower the water level.
1. POOL PREPARATION
- Make sure the pool doesn't have any leaks. If a leak is found, repair with an underwater vinyl repair kit. A constant water lever must be maintained during the winter months.
- Clean and vacuum the pool.
- Be sure to also clean the top of the pool liner using a Tile & Vinyl cleaner.
- Balance the pool water and add the pool closing chemicals as detailed below.
- Remove and store your in-pool ladders, rails, solar reel, float rope, pool games, etc.
- Remove your skimmer basket and weir door. Install a Tall Skimmer Guard (ice expansion protector sometimes called a "Gizzmo") into each skimmer. Make sure that it is equipped with a blow-out plug/cap on top. When the top of the pool water freezes the Skimmer Guard will collapse inward to absorb the ice expansion pressure instead of cracking the skimmer.
- Remove the directional inlets (some refer to as eyeballs/jets) from the wall returns.
- At the filtration system, separate both the suction and return lines at the quick disconnect unions. Using a shop vac or an air compressor at the disconnect unions, blow air back toward the pool. This will evacuate the water from the plumbing lines. Continue until a steady stream of air is bubbling out both the suction and return inlets. Then repeat this process for the skimmer line. (make sure that the Skimmer Guard you are using has the blowout opening with plug on top).
- While air is still being applied and bubbling out, have a second person install winter plugs into the wall returns.
- The bottom drain line is blown out using the same method as the return and skimmer lines, however, the air will only force the water down so far in the plumbing line due to the hydro static pressure of the water in the pool. So, when you remove the air source from blowing this line, quickly install a rubber expansion plug in the open end of the line which will trap the air inside the line keeping the water down low inside the line.
- Add Pool anti-freeze into the open end of the plumbing lines for additional freeze protection is strongly recommended to guard against any possible ice damage to the plumbing lines.
- Remove the drain plugs and caps from the pump, filter, heater and any other pool equipment that has water inside of it. Follow the manufacturers winterizing instructions for each to properly protect these items.
2. ADD WINTERIZING CHEMICALS
- Always follow the chemical manufacturers instructions for dosage procedures and add the chemicals to the pool water while the filter system is running.
- Adjust the pH between 7.2 to 7.8 (Ideal is 7.4 to 7.6)
- Adjust the Total Alkalinity to 80 to 140 ppm
- Shock the pool with a chlorine based shock treatment (granular chlorine) Dosage: 1-Lb. per 10,000 gallons of pool water.
- Add winterizing algaecide per the manufacturers instructions. Allow the pump to run for a few hours to evenly distribute the chemicals.
3. INSTALLING THE POOL COVER
- You are now ready to install your winter cover with water tubes or a safety cover if you have one.
- If your cover is a solid cover, not allowing water to pass through it, you will need to periodically remove some of the water accumulation from the top of the cover during freeze thaws that occur over the winter months. This is best achieved using a small submersible cover pump. You will need to remove the water, leaves and debris next Spring prior to opening the pool. If you have a lot of wet leaves on the cover in the Spring, it will be much easier to remove the cover if you first pump off the water accumulation and allow the leaves to dry out a few days .
Return to Top
Disconnect the pump from the filtration system base with the rest of the "T" valve attached and store it in a warm place for the winter. For further instruction, please refer to the specific manufacturers owner's manual for instruction.
Return to Top
- Place the box containing the cover at either end of the pool. Open the box and place the cover on the deck along the longest length of the pool. The cover has been ribbon folded to allow it to be spread out over the pool easily. Allowing some air to billow the cover from underneath as you install it will also make it easier to install over the swim area.
- Using two people on opposite sides of the pool cover, take the leading edge of the cover in hand and pull it tightly between you. Walk the cover to the opposite end of the pool - being careful not to dip the leading edge in the water or catch it on any protruding surfaces.
- Allow the cover to lay on the surface of the pool water and up onto the perimeter decking. The cover is secured in place by placing water tube/sleeves on top of the cover perimeter, weighting the cover down onto the deck. Be sure to minimize the gaps between the water tubes or the wind can easily get under the cover and could possibly cause cover damage.
- Be sure that the cover is draped loose enough that it will rest up against the pool walls and across the top of the water surface. DO NOT use the cover grommets to tie the cover tightly across the pool. This will result in damage to the winter cover that the cover manufacturer expressly denies under the terms of their warranties. KEEP THE WATER AND ICE BUILD-UP ON YOUR POOL COVER TO A MINIMUM BY PUMPING OFF THE EXCESSIVE WATER ACCUMULATION during freeze thaws that occurre over the winter. This will prevent possible ice damage to the pool cover.
Return to Top
|
