Maintenance Charts — Cheat Sheet Pool Chemical
Routine Maintenance: 1 lb of Calcium Hypochlorite per 10,000 gallons. Light Algae (Green tint): 2 lbs per 10,000 gallons. Heavy Algae (Dark green/Black): 3 lbs per 10,000 gallons. The Relationship Between pH and Alkalinity
If your test results fall outside the ideal ranges, you need to adjust them. Chemical adjustments should always be done in small increments. Never mix chemicals together; add them to the pool water separately as directed. How to Adjust Pool Chemistry
| Chemical Parameter | Ideal Range | What happens if it's LOW? | What happens if it's HIGH? | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | 1.0 – 3.0 ppm | Algae growth, bacteria risk, cloudy water. | Strong "chlorine" smell, skin/eye irritation. | | pH Level | 7.4 – 7.6 | Eye irritation, corrosion of metal parts, etching of plaster. | Scale formation, cloudy water, chlorine becomes ineffective. | | Total Alkalinity (TA) | 80 – 120 ppm | "pH Bounce" (pH moves erratically), staining. | Cloudy water, scaling, stubborn pH that won't change. | | Cyanuric Acid (CYA) * | 30 – 50 ppm | Chlorine dissipates rapidly in sunlight. | "Chlorine Lock" (chlorine becomes ineffective). | | Calcium Hardness | 200 – 400 ppm | Etching of plaster, grout dissolution. | Scaling on tile/walls, rough surfaces. | cheat sheet pool chemical maintenance charts
Every good cheat sheet starts with a reference range. While manufacturer instructions vary slightly, the industry standard (supported by the CDC and major chemical brands) generally aligns with the following parameters.
This review breaks down the standard charts found in the best cheat sheets, analyzes the critical "action levels," and provides a framework for creating your own maintenance log. Routine Maintenance: 1 lb of Calcium Hypochlorite per
By following this cheat sheet, you'll be able to maintain a safe, clean, and enjoyable pool environment for you and your loved ones. Happy swimming!
Pool chemicals are powerful. Always store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep them out of reach of children and pets. When adding chemicals to the water, always wear gloves and eye protection, and ensure the pool pump is running to help distribute the chemicals evenly throughout the pool. The Relationship Between pH and Alkalinity If your
Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer): 30 – 50 ppm (protects chlorine from sunlight) The Balancing Act: What to Add and When