The Importance of Pool Service
Most everyone agrees that being able to swim in or sit beside a crystal clear pool is a relaxing experience. Keeping a pool looking nice and safe for swimmers requires proper maintenance. Some Arizona homeowners elect to maintain their own pools in order to save money, or they enjoy doing it themselves. Regardless of who maintains the pool, there are some dangers of improper pool service.
Dangers of Improper Pool Service
Anyone performing pool maintenance should be aware that the task requires using hazardous materials. Chlorine is one of the main chemicals used to keep the water clean and clear and to avoid the buildup of algae and other bacteria. It can be used in solid or liquid form, both of which are hazardous and require careful handling, as well as a safe storage method.
What Happens if Chlorine is Improperly Stored?
When Chlorine is improperly used or stored, it can cause or contribute to respiratory problems, plus skin and eye irritations. If stored indoors, toxic gases can be released. Accidentally mixing Chlorine with ammonia or certain hydrocarbons can actually cause an explosion. A proper balance of the pool’s acidity, known as pH, also has to be maintained. Chlorine is most effective when the pool’s pH is at the proper level. If the pH level is too high, the usual solution is to add muriatic acid, which is another hazardous substance.
Importance of Proper Chemical Use
A complete understanding of how to properly use chemicals is required. Not only are most of the chemicals considered hazardous, but they can also present other dangers if used improperly. This means they have to be applied in precise amounts using specific procedures. For instance, some chemicals are added directly to the pool water while others have to be diluted before applying. Additionally, there are timing factors involved with the use of some chemicals, limiting the number of chemicals that can be applied over a discrete time period.
Hiring a Pool Contractor
While there is nothing wrong with a homeowner wanting to maintain their own pool, it may be beneficial to hire a pool contractor. In most cases, the contractor will furnish the chemicals required which eliminates the homeowner’s responsibilities for handling and storing hazardous materials. The contractor will have trained personnel who can test the pool chemicals on a regular basis and keep them balanced. If any non-routine items requiring maintenance are observed, the contractor can call it to the attention of the homeowner and repairs can be made before major problems develop. We Fix Ugly Pools offers pool service and maintenance in Arizona.
