top of page

What's in the Water? Understanding the Impact of Charlotte's City Water Chemistry on Your Pool

4 min read

0

2

0

Keeping your pool water clean and safe is essential for a great swimming experience. In Charlotte, the local water supply significantly influences the quality of your pool water. The city of Charlotte published their annual drinking water quality report that is the basis of this post. This post explores key aspects of the 2023 Charlotte city water chemistry report, including chlorine, pH, and calcium hardness, and how these elements impact your pool’s overall health.


The Role of Chlorine in Water Chemistry


Chlorine serves as the main sanitizer for pools, protecting against harmful microorganisms. In Charlotte, the city maintains a chlorine concentration ranging from 0.5 to 2.0 parts per million (ppm), which is effective in keeping your microbes out of your drinking water. Your pool water's chlorine concentration should be between 1.0 to 5.0 ppm. As such, adding water to your pool may reduce the concentration of chlorine in your pool's water.


However, various factors can affect chlorine's performance. For instance, if organic materials like leaves or dirt are present, they can consume chlorine, leading to potential issues. Research indicates that maintaining chlorine levels within the ideal range reduces the likelihood of algae growth by up to 90%. In contrast, high chlorine levels can lead to skin rashes or red eyes for swimmers, emphasizing the importance of regular testing.


Understanding pH Levels


pH measures the acidity or alkalinity of your pool water. Ideally, your pool water should fall between 7.2 and 7.8. In Charlotte, the city water averaged a pH of 8.6. This is higher than would be recommended in your pool. When pH is balanced, chlorine works effectively, providing better sanitation.


If the pH drops below 7.2, the water becomes acidic and can start to corrode pool surfaces and equipment. Conversely, a high pH can render chlorine less effective, increasing the risk of bacteria and algae. Regularly checking pH levels can save you from costly repairs and keep your pool clean and inviting.


The Importance of Calcium Hardness


Calcium hardness denotes the amount of dissolved calcium in your pool water and is vital for preventing both corrosion and scale formation. In Charlotte, the calcium hardness levels typically range from 20 to 25 ppm—low for pool water. The recommended range for calcium hardness levels in your pool is typically from 200 to 400 ppm. This indicates that when you add water to your pool, you should expect your calcium hardness to decrease so keep a close eye out to avoid any issues.


Low calcium levels can lead to corrosion, damaging metal fixtures and causing leaks. Conversely, high hardness can result in scale buildup, creating cloudy water and potentially harming your filtration system. Regular testing of calcium levels helps you maintain clear and functional pool water.


Assessing How Chlorine, pH, and Calcium Hardness Interact


Understanding how chlorine, pH, and calcium hardness interact is key to a well-maintained pool. Each component is interlinked; a disruption in one area can impact the others.


For instance, if high pH levels reduce chlorine effectiveness, your pool may fail to eliminate harmful bacteria, posing health risks. Similarly, poor calcium hardness can destabilize both chlorine and pH levels, complicating pool maintenance. Monitoring these interactions can ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming environment.


The Impact of Seasonal Changes on Water Chemistry


Charlotte's climate has a significant impact on pool water chemistry, especially in the summer. With rising temperatures, the rate of chlorine evaporation increases, making it necessary to test and adjust levels more frequently. Studies suggest that adult pools may lose up to 50% of their chlorine concentration on hot days.


Heavy rainfall can also alter pool chemistry. Rainwater is often acidic, which can bring down your pH levels. Additionally, significant rain can dilute chlorine levels, requiring prompt testing and balancing to maintain pool safety.


Practical Steps for Pool Owners: Maintaining Water Quality


Maintaining your pool’s water chemistry might seem complex, but with a few consistent practices, you can ensure a safe and clean swimming environment. Here are some actionable tips:


  • Regular Testing: Check your pool water at least once a week for chlorine, pH, and calcium hardness using dependable testing kits. This routine helps prevent issues before they escalate.


  • Adjusting Water Chemistry: Have essential chemicals ready for adjusting chlorine and pH levels. Reading and following product instructions is crucial for effective application.


  • Monitor Usage and Weather Patterns: Keep track of how pool use and weather changes influence your water chemistry. A busy swimming day can lead to higher chlorine demand, while storms can introduce contaminants that skew pH and chlorine levels.


The Bottom Line


Understanding the water going into your pool is step 1 to keeping your water balanced when topping your pool up. By keeping an eye on Charlotte's water chemistry, you can create a safe and enjoyable swimming area. Regular testing and proactive adjustments ensure your pool remains a refreshing escape in your backyard.


With this understanding, you can take pride in maintaining your pool, knowing that you are contributing to a clean and safe swimming experience for yourself and your loved ones. If you would like any help with this, please give Bane Pools a call or reach out! We are the #1 pool cleaning service in Charlotte because we tailor our approach to you!


Close-up view of a clear swimming pool water with a modern filtration system
Clear swimming pool water showcasing the importance of water chemistry in maintenance.

Jan 12

4 min read

0

2

0