 Need Service? Call 781-585-7665 |
 |
Tips & Guidelines
Above-ground Pools:
Supervision
Adult supervision is a key element in getting the maximum, safest enjoyment from your pool. One individual must assume primary responsibility for supervising the pool and consistently enforcing pool rules. Pool rules should be clearly communicated and understood by all persons — young or old — who use your pool. Pay special attention to educating young children and non-swimmers about important safety precautions.
Swimming Ability
If you’re uncomfortable with someone’s swimming abilities, make sure they stay in the shallow water area and watch them closely. Never swim alone or allow others to do so.
Exercise & Fitness
Lap swimming is perhaps the best form of aerobic conditioning. You can efficiently exercise your heart without placing stress on your weight-bearing joints and the lumbar spine.
Entertaining
Plan ahead to prevent accidents and injuries, and make your entertaining truly enjoyable. Keep electrical appliances a significant distance from the pool. Don’t use extension cords. Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) on any appliance or electrical device that is used poolside.
Use of alcohol or drugs does not mix with pool activities.
Games that may appear safe sometimes are not. Encourage and supervise the use of good pool games and toys. Prohibit horseplay, especially throwing or pushing someone into the pool.
You have the bottom line responsibility in poolside entertaining. Use good judgment to help protect yourself, your family and guests. If in doubt, prohibit use of the pool by persons whose condition you doubt. Remember, you are in charge of your pool.
In-ground Swimming Pools:
Supervision
Adult supervision is a key element in getting the maximum, safest enjoyment from your pool. One individual must assume primary responsibility for supervising the pool and consistently enforcing pool rules. Pool rules should be clearly communicated and understood by all persons — young or old — who use your pool. Pay special attention to educating young children and non-swimmers about important safety precautions.
Swimming Ability
If you’re uncomfortable with someone’s swimming abilities, make sure they stay in the shallow water area and watch them closely. Never swim alone or allow others to do so.
Exercise & Fitness
Lap swimming is perhaps the best form of aerobic conditioning. You can efficiently exercise your heart without placing stress on your weight-bearing joints and the lumbar spine.
Entertaining
Plan ahead to prevent accidents and injuries, and make your entertaining truly enjoyable. Keep electrical appliances a significant distance from the pool. Don’t use extension cords. Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) on any appliance or electrical device that is used poolside.
Use of alcohol or drugs does not mix with pool activities.
Games that may appear safe sometimes are not. Encourage and supervise the use of good pool games and toys. Prohibit horseplay, especially throwing or pushing someone into the pool.
You have the bottom line responsibility in poolside entertaining. Use good judgment to help protect yourself, your family and guests. If in doubt, prohibit use of the pool by persons whose condition you doubt. Remember, you are in charge of your pool.
Headfirst Entry: Diving And Sliding
The chief danger for divers or headfirst sliders is serious spinal injury.
Serious spinal injuries can occur even at very slow speeds if the head strikes firmly against the pool bottom or side.
DO…
• Know the shape of the pool bottom and the water depth before you dive or slide headfirst.
• Plan your path to avoid submerged obstacles, surface objects or other swimmers.
• Hold your head up, arms up, and steer up with your hands.
• Keep arms extended and head and hands up.
• Practice carefully before you dive or slide headfirst.
• Test the diving board for its spring before using.
• Remember that when you dive down, you must steer up.
• Dive straight ahead – not off the side of a diving board.
DON’T…
• Drink and dive.
• Dive into an above-ground pool.
• Dive into a pool not meeting a “diving pool” standard.
• Dive or slide headfirst in the shallow part of the pool.
• Dive across the narrow part of pools.
• Run and dive.
• Dive from any place that is not specifically designed for diving.
• Engage in horseplay on diving or sliding equipment.
• Use diving equipment as a trampoline.
• Do a back dive; backyard pools are not built for this dangerous dive.
• Try fancy dives; keep the dives simple.
• Dive or slide headfirst at or through objects such as inner tubes.
• Put diving or sliding equipment on a pool that wasn’t designed for it.
• Swim or dive alone.
• Dive into unfamiliar bodies of water.
Seasonal Tips
Get step-by-step instructions on how to open your pool and get it ready for fun. Whether it’s vacation, Spring opening, or you’ve got a special event planned, your BioGuard dealer can help you take care of your pool during the off-season and ensure that it will be ready to use when the time is right.
Opening your pool
Doing it the right way can mean the difference between a summer of fun and a summer of headaches! Follow these important (and easy) steps to ensure a smooth, carefree pool opening in the spring. And remember, your local BioGuard® Dealer is always ready to assist with information tailored to your specific pool care needs.
1. remove pool cover (skip this step for new pools)
Drain off any accumulated water on the cover away from your pool. Once removed, clean with BioGuard Stow-A-Way® to prevent sticking and odors. Store in a dry place, free of debris and protected from the sun and weather.
2. fill your pool
Your pool should be filled to the middle of the skimmer opening to allow for proper circulation.
3. check your pump, skimmer basket & filter
4. get your water tested
Be sure to circulate pool water 24 to 48 hours before taking a water sample. Using a clean plastic container (or better still, one that your dealer provides), scoop about one quart of water from elbow-depth. Seal the container and take it to your BioGuard Dealer for testing and analysis.
BioGuard pioneered the idea of computerized water analysis. Over the past 25 years, we have used our resources to research, develop and refine the science of water analysis. Today, our computerized water analysis system provides accurate results almost instantly. You receive personalized instructions for starting the pool. Help keep your water perfectly balanced by bringing in a water sample at least once every month during the pool season.
5. test sanitizer & pH levels
You can test sanitizer and pH levels yourself using the BioGuard 1200V Test Kit or BioGuard Test Strips to check free chlorine, total bromine residuals and pH levels and Total Alkalinity. Use the following chart to determine proper levels.
Free chlorine residual 1.0 to 3.0 ppm
Total Bromine residual 1.0 to 3.0 ppm
pH 7.4 to 7.6 is ideal range
(7.2 -7.6 is acceptable)
Total Alkalinity 125 to 150 ppm
Calcium Hardness:
Plaster pools
All other types
200 to 275 ppm
175 to 225 ppm
6. routine maintenance
Routine maintenance is the best way to maintain your pool. And with one of BioGuard’s easy-to-use 3-step pool care programs, it’s as easy as 1-2-3! We even have a non-chlorine system—our SoftSwim® Program—if you prefer pool care that doesn’t use chlorine to sanitize!
Vacation preparation
While on vacation, debris and bacteria can collect in your pool and upset the water balance. Consider a “vacation plan” to prevent problems so you can come home to a clear pool and not a messy surprise.
Contact your BioGuard Dealer for a vacation maintenance plan. (Your dealer can give you instructions based on your specific BioGuard Program.)
Clean your pool thoroughly, brushing and vacuuming walls and floors.
Test pool water and make sure it’s properly balanced. Anything that’s out of balance—total alkalinity, pH, calcium hardness—will likely get worse when left unattended.
Run your pump at least eight hours a day to help prevent algae and bacteria growth. (Either set your timer or ask a neighbor to turn it on and off.)
Upon returning, have your BioGuard Dealer perform a water analysis to ensure that your pool is properly balanced and ready for swimming.
Closing for winter
Winterizing is the most important thing you can do to make your spring pool opening as easy as possible. There are enormous benefits to correctly closing your pool, including:
Protecting your pool surfaces and equipment.
Keeping water looking its best all winter long.
Protecting equipment from freeze damage.
Saving money on extra maintenance when you open your pool.
Whether you completely cover your pool or just reduce maintenance, BioGuard® can make winterizing painless. Convenient Artic Blue® Winter Kits include the products you need for cold weather care.
Not sure what’s happening to your pool water? We’ve compiled a handy reference chart to help you identify a variety of common issues and find the best solution to remedy your particular problem. Take a look at these pool care tips…
Note:In all cases, taking a water sample to a Crystal Clear Pools Store for analysis is the best solution. Doing it the right way can mean the difference between a summer of fun and a summer of headaches! Follow these important (and easy) steps to ensure a smooth, carefree pool opening in the spring. And remember, we are your local BioGuard® dealer and we are always ready to assist with information tailored to your specific pool care needs. Doing it the right way can mean the difference between a summer of fun and a summer of headaches!
| Problem | Definition / Cause | Example | Bio-Guard solution |
| cloudy water | Hazy, murky appearance. Caused by poor filtration, inadequate circulation, water balance, low sanitizer levels and/or lack of routine oxidation. |
|
|
| algae | A common “green” algae that can be free floating or wall-clinging. Ranges in severity from patches on walls and bottoms to entire pools. Can clog filters and create surface damage if left unchecked. |  |
|
| black algae | Forms in cracks and crevices on pool surfaces, especially plaster finishes. Known for skeletal growths that make it impervious to normal chlorine levels. |  |
|
| mustard (yellow) algae | A chlorine-resistant form of green algae. Often resembles dirt or sand on bottom or sides of pool. It can be brushed away very easily, but returns quickly. Although it usually creates a large Chlorine demand, it has been known to survive in high levels of Chlorine. |  |
|
| staining | Discoloration of pool equipment and surfaces caused by contamination, sunlight and metals in pool water. |
|
|
| pink slime | Often categorized as algae, but is actually a bacterial growth. Develops in remote places: inside the skimmer, behind the light, underneath ladder treads, around return fittings, and inside automatic pool cleaners. |
|
|
| foam | Foam is caused by elevated levels of algicide or a foaming algicide in pools with jetted returns, attached spas or water features |
|
|
| scale | Scale formation is caused by high calcium hardness. |
|
|
| chlorine residual | The most common cause of increased chlorine demand is a high level of contaminants. |
|
SpaGuard Tips & Treatments:
NOTE: All Products are Available at Crystal Pools…
CIRCULATION: Every day, bacteria and other contaminants can find their way into spa water. Proper circulation will help prevent these contaminants from becoming problems. As the water circulates it:
Passes through the filter and the suspended particles are trapped.Thoroughly distributes the SpaGuard products that kill bacteria, eliminate undesirable compounds, and help prevent problems.
What to Do:
Run the spa’s circulation system every day. Check the spa owner’s manual to determine how long the spa’s circulation system should run. If the spa has a separate circulation pump that runs continuously, simply make sure that the system is always in good working order.
CLEANING: If left unchecked, contaminants such as dirt, oil, and even bacteria can accumulate at the waterline, much like a bathtub ring. Regular cleaning of spa surfaces preserves the surfaces so the whole spa environment looks and feels better. Use net to remove floating debris. Brush and vacuum the spa. If a skimmer basket is used, empty it once or twice a week.
What to Do:
Clean the oily ring that forms at the waterline using SpaGuard Surface Cleaner. This fast-acting product breaks up the oils and debris at the waterline so the surface can easily be wiped clean. Unlike most common household cleaners, SpaGuard Surface Cleaner is totally compatible with the spa’s water chemistry.
Prevent waterline build-up with SpaGuard Natural Spa Enzyme. This natural product has enzymes that digest most oils and eliminate them from the water. By removing these oils:
- The spa will be less likely to form foam.
- The surface will be easier to clean.
- The waterline will require less frequent cleaning.
- The life of the filter will be extended.
FILTRATION: Many spa problems are caused by poor filtration. A filter that’s operating properly helps keep the water clean by capturing hair, oils, and cosmetics that wash off when people use the spa. When the filter is dirty or clogged, all this debris remains in the water. Most spas have a cartridge filter. Check the owner’s manual for detailed information on how to remove the filter for cleaning. Typically filters should be cleaned every 4-6 weeks.
What to Do:
- Remove the cartridge.
- Rinse with a garden hose to remove loose debris. A hose-end nozzle is best. A pressure washer has too much pressure. (Note: this will not eliminate the accumulated oils.)
- Every time the filter is cleaned, use SpaGuard Filter Cleaner & Degreaser according to label instructions.
- This will dissolve and loosen the built-up oil and dirt.
Thoroughly rinse the cartridge again. (Ideally the cartridge should be allowed to dry before being returned to service.) - Return the cleaned cartridge to the filter housing.
- Replace the filter element as often as the manufacturer recommends.
- Use SpaGuard Water Clarifier weekly. Some particles of debris are microscopic and too small for the filter to catch. Water Clarifier will help join these tiny particles together and allow the filter to remove them, keeping the water clear.
CHEMISTRY: SpaGuard products provide numerous benefits. When used according to label instructions, SpaGuard products will:
- Make the water feel enjoyable and comfortable.
- Kill bacteria which can multiply rapidly in a spa.
- Protect spa surfaces from stains caused by metals which are often dissolved in water.
- Protect spa equipment from scale caused by calcium deposits. Scale can accumulate on spa surfaces and inside filters and heaters, greatly reducing their effectiveness.
For your convenience, we’ve color-coded our different product categories.
What to Do:
Maintain an adequate sanitizer level at all times to kill bacteria.
SpaGuard Brominating Concentrate. A bromine residual is an ideal bacteria fighter in the spa environment. Simply add these concentrated granules into the spa water according to label instructions. A double dose of Brominating Concentrate can also serve as a shock.
Brominating Tablets. As these Brominating Tablets dissolve, they release powerful protection against bacteria. Use them in a brominator or in a floating feeder. IMPORTANT: Do not place Brominating Tablets in the skimmer or drop directly onto the spa’s surface.
Chlorinating Concentrate. This fast-dissolving chlorinating product is also effective against bacteria and easy to apply. Sprinkle the granules directly into the spa according to label instructions. A double dose can also serve as shock.
Use SpaGuard Enhanced Shock (or a shock dosage of Brominating or Chlorinating Concentrate) to remove undesirable compounds, eliminate odors, clarify the water, and restore the sparkle. SpaGuard Enhanced Shock is the preferred routine shock product. This patented formula makes the water beautifully clear. And it works fast.
Every time the spa is refilled with fresh water use SpaGuard Stain and Scale Control to prevent metal stains and scale build-up. If the water contains high levels of minerals or metals, a weekly maintenance dose is usually recommended.
Even if a spa is equipped with an ozone generator, the spa still needs SpaGuard sanitizing and “shock products.” Ozone can provide some oxidizing support, but ozone is very short lived. SpaGuard sanitizers provide the continuous, reliable protection needed.
TESTING: There are 2 primary components that affect spa water quality:
Sanitizer, either bromine or chlorine residual pH
When both are within their recommended ranges:
Water is comfortable, protected and clear.
Sanitizers and “shock products” work efficiently.
Spa surfaces and equipment are protected.
What to Do:
Maintain bromine or chlorine residual within recommended range:
Bromine residual = 2 – 6 ppm
Chlorine residual =1 – 3 ppm
(If spa is equipped with an ozone generator, chlorine or bromine residual can be close to the lower end of their ranges.)
Maintain the pH between 7.4 – 7.6. In this range bathers are comfortable, the spa surface and equipment are protected, and the sanitizers perform efficiently.
Add SpaGuard® Spa Sentry™ to hold the pH in its optimum range. pH is THE most important aspect of spa water quality. However, maintaining the proper pH can be challenging. The heated, aerated water, combined with heavy bather loads, can cause the pH to change quickly, unless a means for buffering these changes is present. That’s where SpaGuard Spa Sentry comes in. Spa Sentry is formulated to “watch over” the pH and protect the water from pH changes.
Test sanitizer and pH level several times a week with the 4-way test strips. These strips provide quick, easy and accurate readings. The test process is easy. Follow the label instructions. Simply dip and read.
A complete water analysis is recommended every 4-6 weeks. In addition to testing the pH and sanitizer, this analysis will measure the water’s total alkalinity, calcium hardness, iron, copper, manganese and total dissolved solids.
DRAINING AND REFILLING: Regular draining and refilling is a normal part of spa maintenance. Over time, the water absorbs and dissolves minerals, chemicals and other soluble material. A Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) test helps determine if it’s time to replace the spa water. High TDS can make the water look dull, become foamy and develop an odor.
When to Drain:
How often a spa is drained and refilled depends on how often it is used. This simple formula can help:
Spa Gallons ÷ Daily Bathers ÷ 3 = Days Between Draining
Example: 300 gallons ÷ 2 daily bathers ÷ 3 = 50 days
What to Do:
Drain the water. Check owner’s manual for information.
Clean the spa surfaces with SpaGuard Surface Cleaner.
Use SpaGuard Spa Polish to protect the finish. This cleaner is specifically formulated for use on the high-gloss acrylic surfaces used in many spas. It not only restores the shine, it protects the finish. However, it should not be used on spas with a non-shiny finish.
Refill the spa with fresh water.
Perform a water analysis.
Add the recommended SpaGuard products
Always read the product label and follow directions carefully. It contains important information on the proper application, handling and storage of the compound you’re using. Used correctly, pool water maintenance products safeguard the health of your entire family. If they’re mishandled, they can be hazardous.
Never mix chemicals of any kind together. An uncontrolled reaction such as fuming, fire or explosion could occur. Always add maintenance products to the pool water separately and in different areas.
Never overdose your pool. Use the exact amount specified on the label or by Crystal Clear Pools, your BioGuard® Dealer. Knowing your pool’s exact volume will help prevent over – or under – application.
Never add water to chemicals; always add the chemical to large amounts of water.
Never inhale fumes or allow products to get in your eyes, nose or mouth. When opening a product, turn your face to one side or point the container away from you. In the event of accidental contact or if product is swallowed, follow emergency advice on the product label and call your doctor and/or your local Poison Control Center. The phone number of American Association of Poison Control Centers is 1-800-222-1222.
Never smoke around chemicals. Some chemical fumes can be highly flammable, and sanitizers or oxidizers can be ignited by a lit cigarette or match.
Never allow children to handle, measure or dispense chemicals.
Never interchange measuring scoops or place wet scoops back into any chemical container.
Never store liquids directly above sanitizers and oxidizers; they may accidentally leak and contaminate other products.
Never store pool sanitizers and oxidizers near metal products like bicycles, lawn mowers, cars, etc., because they may cause rust.
Never leave large, open containers in areas where children play. Such containers often collect water and present a potential drowning hazard.
Always clean up any spills as soon as they occur and dispose of the material in a safe manner. Small spills can be diluted by hosing off into the pool. Contact Crystal Clear Pools for advice on cleaning larger spills. Never use a vacuum cleaner to clean spills. It’s hazardous to throw chemicals into the trash or put spilled material back into the original container. Keep all spills away from lawns and landscaping to avoid damage. Dispose of all chemicals according to label directions.
Always store chemical products safely and out of the reach of small children. Keep your pool maintenance products in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from other household or garden chemicals and petroleum products.
Always keep chemical product containers tightly closed when not in use.
Always brace liquids so they won’t tip while transporting them in your car. Don’t allow chemicals to stay in the car for a long period of time. Make the pool store your last stop. Unpack them as soon as you get home.
Always wear protective equipment (safety glasses, rubber gloves, etc.) as directed on the label of the product.
Always use care when broadcasting powdered products into the pool (especially on windy days) to prevent Chemical Safety… Thursday, October 23, 2008 product from getting in eyes or mouth or onto skin.
TA? pH? ppm? What does it all mean? Our online glossary of commonly used pool terms can help you make sense of it all.
Algae – Microscopic plants capable of rapid reproduction.
Algicides – Products that prevent or control algae growth.
Bacteria – Microscopic organisms, some of which are harmful to bathers.
Balanced Water – The proper ratio of mineral content and pH that prevents pool water from being corrosive or scale-forming.
Bromine – A halogen element alternatively used as a sanitizer for pools.
Calcium Hardness (CH) – The amount of dissolved calcium in water. Ideal range 175 – 275 ppm depending on surface type.
Chlorine – A halogen element, compounds of which are widely used in pool water sanitation.
Chloramines - Irritating compounds formed by the combination of nitrogenous compounds and free chlorine. Nitrogenous compounds are introduced into the water by urine, perspiration, cosmetics, suntan oils, etc.
Chlorine Demand – The amount of a free available chlorine residual needed to destroy organic contaminants and establish a stable residual for effective sanitation.
Chlorine Residual – The amount of total chlorine in pool water.
Combined Chlorine (Chloramine) – Chlorine which is bonded to other compounds.
Dry Acid – Product used to lower pH and total alkalinity; preferred over muriatic acid (HCl) for handling, storage and safety issues. BioGuard Lo’ N Slo®.
Free (Available) Chlorine – Chlorine in a form capable of bacteria and algae destruction. Preferred range: 1.0 to 3.0 ppm.
Oxidize – (see Shock Treatment)
pH – A way to measure the acidity or alkalinity of water. This is the most important part of chemical balance. (Ideal range 7.4-7.6)
ppm – Parts Per Million, a measurement for chemical concentration.
Reagent – Tablets, powder or liquid material for use in water testing.
Scale – Coarse calcium or silicate deposits on swimming pool wall, floors and circulation plumbing, especially in heat exchangers.
Saturation Index – A value based on water temperature, total alkalinity, calcium hardness and pH. The value predicts the tendency of pool water to be corrosive, neutral or scale-forming.
Shock Treatment – Adding an oxidizing compound to the pool water to chemically break up (oxidize) contaminants such as suntan oils, cosmetics, perspiration and windblown dirt.
Stabilized Chlorinating Products – Form of chlorine used to sanitize pool water. Favored for its economy and ability to remain active in strong sunlight.
Stabilizer – Cyanuric acid; a compound that prevents the dissipation of chlorine residuals by sunlight. BioGuard® Stabilizer 100™.
Superchlorination – Adding enough chlorine (3 to 5 times usual dose) to destroy chlorine demand compounds and combined chlorine.
Total Alkalinity (TA) –
The amount of the alkaline components in water. TA acts as a buffer against rapid pH fluctuation. (Ideal range 125-150)
Undesirable Compounds – Substances introduced in the water by people or the environment that interfere with ideal pool conditions.