Water Testing

• Water testing is fundamental to pool care!  By Testing water on a daily basis, it ensures that only minor adjustments to the water balance elements are needed.

• The elements of water are

  • PH

    • Ideal PH is 7.2 to 7.6

    • A low PH, high acidic level, will cause damage to your circulation system, including your heater.

    • Incorrect PH can sting your eyes, cause a sore throat, or even tint your hair green.

  • Total Alkalinity

    • Ideal Alkalinity is 90 to 150 PPM

    • Incorrect alkalinity can cause cloudy water or create fine particles in your water.

  • Calcium Hardness

    • Ideal Calcium Hardness is 200 to 400 PPM

  • Total Chlorine

    • 1.0 to 1.5

    • Without a proper chlorine level you will develop algae in the pool.

  • Total Dissolved Solids

Shocking Your Pool

• Your pool should be shocked at least once a week. 

• Powdered shock should be added at a rate of 1 lb. per 10,000 gallons of water.

Give us a call, we will be happy to assist you with water testing and treatment.

Tips For A Cleaner Pool

• Pools should be brushed (walls and floor) at least once a week.

• How long should I run my automatic pool cleaner?

  • Automatic pool cleaners should be used 4 to 6 hours daily.

• What is an ideal water level to insure proper operation?

  • Water levels should be kept at the middle of the skimmer at all times.

• I notice my pool seems to be losing water every week.  Do I have a leak?

  • Not necessarily.  Water evaporation, depending on air temperature and wind, can range from 1 to 2 inches in 7 days.  This does not include splash out.

• How often should I test my water?

  • Water should be tested and treated daily.

• When and how long should I run my pool filter?

  • Since the sun draws chemicals from your pool, the best time to run your pump is during the day.  The average pool, being 20,000 to 25,000 gallons, should have the filter on for 8 to 12 hours.

• My pressure gauge is indicating low pressure.  What should I do?

  • Look for restricted water flow.  Check the skimmer basket, filter pump baskets, and water level.

• My pressure gauge is indicating high pressure.  What should I do?

  • Backwash the filter, make sure the valves are set correctly.

• What is the best way to chlorinate my pool?

  • At S & C, we highly recommend off line chlorination with the Hayward CL220 off line chlorinator.  Just add your 3 inch tablets to the chlorinator once a week and set your flow control.

For any service assistance please call us today - (908) 709-3730.

S & C Contractors, Inc.

N.J. Registered Home Improvement Contractor

#13VH01339100