Consider automatic pool covers
In addition to a soaring demand for pools, the popularity of automatic covers is also skyrocketing. As consumers use their pools more and want to extend their swimming season, an automatic cover is a necessity.
Automatic covers can also help reduce the use of chlorine because closing a pool daily—when not in use—keeps airborne contaminants out, keeping the water and pool surfaces cleaner. That said, it is important to realize while automatic covers keep water cleaner, they also reduce evaporation and can lead to buildup of gas under the cover.
While regular oxidation is important to remove non-living contaminants, it is also important to leave the cover off the pool for at least 30 minutes after non-chlorine oxidizer has been applied. Service techs should instruct owners to let their pool ‘gas off’ periodically so these gases do not get trapped under their cover. In fact, this is especially important with pools that have both a salt chlorine generator and an automatic cover. With a salt system running continuously, it is easy for the chlorine level to get very high quickly with the cover closed. Therefore, chlorine levels should be checked regularly, and the pool should be allowed to breathe to avoid the buildup of gases.
The good news is pool owners with automatic covers can put their salt system on the lowest output setting as they need to generate far less chlorine than if the pool was uncovered.
Use enzymes
Like oxidation, another helpful additive to lessen the demand for chlorine is the use of enzymes. As a part of regular maintenance, using a high-quality, broad spectrum enzyme every week will help break down the organics swimmers bring into the water—which will even help oxidizers work more efficiently. Enzymes naturally break down contaminants, making them easier for filters and chlorine to remove from the water.
Conclusion
The pandemic created an unexpected boom in the pool industry in 2020—especially a renewed interest in residential pools which has naturally spilled over into 2021 and, for some builders, even 2022 an onward.
With the number of families who stayed home and continued using their pools, not to mention the number of new pools installed last summer, chlorine usage has skyrocketed. To ensure there is enough chlorine available to go around, the industry needs to get back to basics and do what it takes to maximize the utility of chlorine and keep pool water sanitized.
Regular brushing, cleaning filters, removing phosphates, oxidizing, and using enzymes will all help to keep the customer’s pool water balanced and their chlorine usage in check.
John Bokor is the host of Haviland Pool and Spa Products’ “Legendary Pools and Spas,” a web series that promotes the fun of owning a pool or hot tub. He is also the company’s director of sales and has more than 25 years of experience in the pool retail industry. Bokor, a certified pool operator (CPO), regularly speaks to professional dealers and pool owners within his territory about water chemistry and maintenance. He can be reached via email at jbokor@havilandusa.com.
