Total hardness in water consists of both calcium and magnesium ions and is the sum of both is the total hardness of pool water.
Water from natural sources such as tap water or rainwater, don’t contain any calcium or magnesium.
Only the calcium component is relevant for calculating water balance in swimming pools.
Calcium hardness must be properly managed so it doesn’t affect pool surfaces, plumbing or the water quality.
A salt water or manually chlorinated pool that has never had minerals added, will only contain calcium hardness.
Mineral pools have magnesium as part of their composition, with the percentage of magnesium varying between different manufacturers.
A magnesium pool will have both calcium and magnesium hardness contributing to the total hardness of the pool water.
Pool test strips only measure total hardness, so calcium hardness and magnesium hardness levels need to be separated.
This can be done by testing the water with a titration test or a high-end photometer capable of measuring both.
Depending on the mineral manufacturer, the total hardness measurement from a typical mineral pool will have 30% calcium hardness and 70% magnesium hardness when the water is properly balanced.
To have your pool water balanced and not degrade your pool’s surfaces, pipework or equipment, it is necessary to regularly monitor calcium hardness levels.
Both low and high calcium levels can cause damage to your valuable pool asset.
Low Calcium Hardness
Pool water that is low in calcium hardness can become acidic and etch surfaces in concrete pools or damage the gel coat in fibreglass pools.
Low calcium levels in vinyl liner pools can have the liner become brittle, faded or wrinkle over time.
High Calcium Hardness
Water that is high in calcium hardness can make the pool turn cloudy, unless the pH and alkalinity levels are adjusted to compensate.
Cloudiness occurs when calcium hardness exceeds the water’s saturation point and can lead to calcium deposits forming on the pool walls, floor and plumbing pipe-work.
Test calcium hardness at least once a month to keep levels within the recommended range of 80 to 500 parts per million (ppm).
Calcium chloride, also known as Calcium Increaser, Calcium Up or Harness Increaser is added to pool water to increase calcium harness levels.
Lowering calcium levels is challenging, but can be achieved by either of the following:
Follow manufacturer’s instructions for dosage quantities and procedures for adding to your pool.
Another solution is to try find an economical reverse osmosis service in your area.
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Simplify your pool maintenance routine with POOLWATER-PRO.
Our software turns test-strips into accurate digital readings, right from your phone.
Get instant alerts to know if your pool is safe to swim, plus any chemicals needed.
By embracing effective pool maintenance practices and utilising POOLWATER-PRO.COM, you can overcome chemical balancing challenges and easily maintain a clear and inviting pool.
Spend less time worrying and more time splashing with your own pool expert on hand.
Visit POOLWATER-PRO.COM to learn more and embark on your journey to pool clarity today.
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