When it comes to owning a pool, nothing beats diving into cool, crystal-clear water on a hot Vermont summer day. But behind that sparkling surface is a careful balance of pool water chemistry. Whether you’re a new pool owner or a seasoned swimmer, understanding the basics of water chemistry is essential to keeping your pool clean, safe, and enjoyable all season long.
At Avalon Pools and Spas in Milton, VT, we offer everything you need—from expert advice to top-quality pool chemicals—to help you maintain perfect pool water. Let’s dive into Pool Water Chemistry 101.
Why Pool Water Chemistry Matters
Keeping your pool water balanced does more than just make it look good. Proper pool water chemistry:
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Prevents algae and bacteria growth
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Protects your pool equipment and surfaces
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Keeps swimmers safe from skin and eye irritation
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Helps you save money by reducing the need for costly fixes
The Core Components of Pool Water Chemistry
To maintain a healthy pool, you’ll need to keep an eye on a few key chemical levels. Here’s what you should monitor regularly:
1. pH Level
Ideal range: 7.2 – 7.6
The pH level tells you how acidic or basic your pool water is. If your pH is too low, your water becomes corrosive; too high, and it can lead to cloudy water and reduce chlorine effectiveness.
At Avalon, we carry pH increasers and pH reducers to help you keep things in check.
2. Chlorine
Ideal range: 1.0 – 3.0 ppm
Chlorine is your primary sanitizer. It kills bacteria and keeps your pool water safe. Make sure your chlorine levels are consistently within range, especially after heavy use or rain.
We offer a full selection of chlorine tabs, granules, and shock treatments from trusted brands like Poolife® and Sustain®.
3. Alkalinity
Ideal range: 80 – 120 ppm
Total alkalinity helps stabilize your pH. If it’s too low, your pH will swing wildly. If it’s too high, it can cause scaling and cloudy water.
Use alkalinity increaser products from Avalon to make quick adjustments when needed.
4. Calcium Hardness
Ideal range: 200 – 400 ppm
This refers to the amount of dissolved calcium in your pool. Low levels can cause damage to plaster and metal surfaces; high levels can cause scaling.
Avalon stocks calcium hardness increasers to help keep your levels just right.
5. Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer)
Ideal range: 30 – 50 ppm (for outdoor pools)
Cyanuric acid protects chlorine from being broken down by sunlight. Without it, your chlorine disappears quickly.
If your stabilizer levels are low, our team can help you choose the right CYA products to keep your chlorine working efficiently.
Pool Shock: A Must for Crystal-Clear Water
Regularly shocking your pool helps eliminate organic contaminants and keeps the water sparkling. Avalon carries oxidizing shock and chlorine-based shock products, which are ideal for weekly maintenance or after heavy use.
Trouble with Cloudy Water or Algae?
If your pool looks cloudy or green, don’t panic—just stop by Avalon Pools and Spas. We can test your water and recommend the right treatment, such as:
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Algaecides
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Clarifiers
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Flocculants
Our in-store water testing helps take the guesswork out of pool maintenance, ensuring you get the right product every time.
Get Expert Help from Avalon Pools and Spas in Milton, VT
Not sure what your pool needs? Bring in a water sample to Avalon Pools and Spas. Our friendly, experienced team offers free in-store water testing and can walk you through the steps to get your water balanced fast.
We proudly serve Milton, Burlington, Colchester, and communities throughout Chittenden County, VT.
Shop Pool Chemicals and Supplies Locally
Instead of waiting for online deliveries, get what you need today. Avalon Pools and Spas carries a wide variety of top-rated pool chemicals, testing kits, cleaning tools, and more—everything you need to maintain a crystal-clear pool.
