Issue: There are currently no readily available kits allowing homeowners to test for algaecide.
In practice: Algaecides are not permitted to enter the storm sewer. Do not add algaecides to the pool two weeks prior to closing (even though this is recommended in the BMP).
Issue: Copper levels found in swimming pool, spa/hot tub or wading pool water is allowed to be discharged into the storm sewer provided it is at or below 0.04 mg/L.
In practice: There are currently no readily available kits for homeowners to test for copper. (Colourimetric copper test kits are available but in reality, no homeowner is going to be able to find such a test kit.)
Furthermore, some algaecides contain copper and as such, are not permitted to enter the storm sewer. Copper may also exist in pool water when alkalinity levels fall drastically, causing the water to become corrosive. If low alkalinity is not corrected, the copper pipes in swimming pool heaters may corrode and become suspended in the pool water.
Stabilized chlorine added to the pool water in puck or powder form lowers total alkalinity (TA) levels. New owners, or those purchasing chemicals from big box stores without first seeking professional advice, may not know how to properly balance their pool water and thus may not raise their pool water alkalinity until it is too late, i.e. the heater core corrodes causing a leak. Education on water balance and the various affects of chemicals is needed.
Issue: Salt from swimming pool water is banned from entering the storm sewer at all times.
In practice: Water from pools treated by salt-chlorine generators can be discharged onto the homeowner’s property, but only if the water does not enter a neighbouring yard or storm sewer. Water from a salt water pool can also be discharged into the home’s sanitary sewer (e.g. laundry tub, toilet); however, care must be taken to not overwhelm the system and flood the basement. It can also be discharged into the sanitary sewer (through the sanitary connection), but a permit is needed. An (Ontario) Ministry of the Environment-approved carrier can also truck the water off-site for disposal.
Issue: Some pools’ discharges are connected to the eavestrough (downspout).
In practice: Eavestroughs usually lead directly to the storm sewer. Pool water containing high chlorine levels might be pumped into the storm sewer unnoticed. These connections should be disconnected or an inline dechlorinator should be installed to remove the chlorine.
Issue: At no time is swimming pool water allowed to be discharged into a ravine or valley.
In practice: Pumping pool water into a ravine or valley may cause extensive erosion to the slope and may also damage the owner’s property, which is a serious concern, particularly when using a trash pump. Untreated discharge may damage a receiving stream or creek, killing sensitive aquatic species. This issue is carefully monitored and enforced.
Issue: Pool opening—Rain water and melted snow that accumulates on a pool cover is allowed into the storm sewer provided it meets all storm sewer limits. It must be free of debris and run directly (or as close as possible) into the stormwater catch basin.
In practice: When opening a pool, chlorine levels are usually high, due to shocking performed during closing. This can present a problem when vacuuming the pool for the first time, as water is typically pumped out to waste or drain to eliminate fine silt from the pool bottom, which often enters the storm sewer. However, adding a granular chlorine neutralizer will bring the chlorine level in line with regulations. Placing a dechlorination tablet into the wastewater flow will also help remove chlorine.
Note: If discharging pool water onto the homeowner’s property, keep in mind very few yards can actually absorb the volume of water being emptied during pool opening, closing or weekly backwashing, even when the discharge hose is moved around the yard. One often-suggested solution is to discharge the water onto the property over several days, although this technique is often ineffective.
