Common Water Treatment Mistakes in Commercial Pools and How to Avoid Them

Maintaining clean, clear, and safe water in commercial pools is essential for the health and enjoyment of pool-goers. However, many pool owners and operators in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, and across the country make common water treatment mistakes that can affect water quality, increase costs, and create health hazards. These errors can sometimes be subtle, making them difficult to spot, but they can have significant consequences if not addressed promptly. By recognizing these issues and knowing how to avoid them, pool managers can ensure a safe, clean, and well-maintained swimming environment for all.

The Importance of Proper Water Treatment in Commercial Pools

Water treatment is one of the most critical aspects of commercial pool maintenance. Pools are high-traffic areas that require constant attention to maintain optimal water quality. Commercial pools, especially those in public or shared-use environments, must meet specific health and safety regulations, which vary by region but generally involve strict guidelines on water sanitation. Without proper treatment, a pool can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria and algae, leading to unsanitary conditions that pose a risk to public health.

For businesses in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, this means understanding the unique challenges of maintaining water quality in outdoor pools subject to seasonal changes, as well as ensuring that the water stays clear and safe in the face of frequent use. A pool’s water quality is determined by several factors, including pH levels, sanitizer levels, calcium hardness, and filtration. When any of these factors are out of balance, problems arise.

Mistake #1: Ignoring Regular Water Testing

One of the most frequent pool water treatment mistakes is neglecting regular water testing. Pool water chemistry can fluctuate daily due to various factors such as weather, swimmer load, and even the chemicals used in the pool itself. Failure to test the water frequently can lead to unbalanced chemical levels, resulting in poor water quality. Inadequate testing can also lead to excessive or insufficient use of pool chemicals, both of which can cause discomfort for swimmers or damage the pool system.

To avoid this mistake, it’s vital to perform regular water testing. At a minimum, commercial pools should test the water at least twice a day, especially during busy seasons. Testing involves checking for key parameters, including pH, free chlorine, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and total dissolved solids (TDS). Many pool maintenance services in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, recommend using test strips or liquid test kits to get accurate results. Automated testing systems are also an excellent investment for larger pools, as they can provide continuous monitoring and automated adjustments to maintain proper water balance.

Mistake #2: Overusing Chemicals

Another common mistake is the overuse of chemicals in an attempt to correct water imbalances. Some pool operators mistakenly believe that adding large quantities of chemicals will quickly resolve water quality issues, but this approach often backfires. Excessive use of chemicals such as chlorine or algaecides can create more problems than they solve, including skin and eye irritation for swimmers, damage to pool equipment, and the potential to destabilize the pool’s water balance even further.

For example, over-chlorination can cause the water to become too acidic, leading to skin irritation and corrosion of pool equipment. Additionally, overuse of algaecides can lead to the accumulation of harmful chemicals that may not be easily removed. The best approach is to follow recommended dosages and adjust based on regular water testing results.

In Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, where the climate can lead to rapid changes in weather, being cautious with chemical use is especially important. Pool operators should always aim for a balanced approach, adding only the necessary amount of chemicals based on the results of frequent testing.

Mistake #3: Failing to Maintain Proper Filtration

Another critical aspect of pool water treatment is the filtration system. Commercial pools rely heavily on efficient filtration to remove debris, contaminants, and bacteria from the water. However, many pool operators make the mistake of overlooking the maintenance of the filtration system. If filters are not cleaned or replaced regularly, they can become clogged, reducing their efficiency and allowing harmful substances to linger in the water.

Failing to properly maintain the filtration system also leads to an increased load on other systems, such as pumps and heaters, which can result in equipment failure or increased energy costs. Pool operators should regularly check filters, and when necessary, replace them according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Routine maintenance also includes inspecting pumps, skimmers, and drain covers to ensure they are functioning properly.

In Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, where outdoor pools can face debris from trees and other natural elements, cleaning and maintaining the filtration system becomes even more essential. The area’s seasonal changes also mean that pool systems may be subjected to additional wear and tear, requiring more frequent attention. By scheduling regular inspections and keeping an eye on the filtration system’s performance, pool operators can avoid a range of water quality issues.

Mistake #4: Overlooking pH and Alkalinity Imbalances

Maintaining proper pH and alkalinity levels is crucial for ensuring that pool water is safe and comfortable for swimmers. If the pH is too high or too low, it can cause a host of problems, including skin irritation, eye discomfort, and the inability of chlorine to effectively sanitize the water. Alkalinity levels play a supporting role in pH balance; if alkalinity is too low, the pH can fluctuate wildly, while high alkalinity can make it difficult to adjust pH levels.

Unfortunately, pH and alkalinity imbalances are often overlooked, and they can easily go unnoticed until they cause significant problems. The solution to this mistake is simple: regular testing. Both pH and alkalinity should be tested frequently, especially after rainfall or heavy pool use. If the pH level is too high, a pool operator can add an acid to lower it, and if it is too low, a base can be used to raise it. Similarly, alkalinity can be adjusted by adding sodium bicarbonate to the water.

In regions like Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, where rainfall can cause fluctuations in water chemistry, it’s especially important to keep a close eye on pH and alkalinity levels. Regular testing allows for quick adjustments before issues like algae growth or discomfort for swimmers arise.

Mistake #5: Neglecting Pool Equipment and System Checks

Commercial pool maintenance involves more than just water chemistry. The pool’s equipment and infrastructure need to be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure the pool’s water treatment systems function optimally. Pool pumps, heaters, skimmers, and automatic chemical feeders all play vital roles in keeping the water clean and safe. If any of these systems fail or become inefficient, the entire water treatment process can be compromised, leading to poor water quality and higher maintenance costs.

Many pool operators make the mistake of focusing solely on the chemical side of water treatment and neglecting the physical components of the pool system. To avoid this mistake, operators should create a comprehensive maintenance schedule that includes regular checks on all pool equipment, as well as periodic deep cleanings of filters and other systems. Additionally, operators should stay on top of any manufacturer-recommended maintenance procedures to prolong the lifespan of their equipment and avoid unexpected breakdowns.

In Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, where outdoor conditions can affect pool equipment, it is particularly important to perform regular checks on pool systems, especially after storms or temperature changes. Taking a proactive approach to equipment maintenance can help prevent costly repairs and ensure that the pool continues to run efficiently.

Conclusion

Proper water treatment is essential for maintaining the safety and cleanliness of commercial pools. By avoiding common mistakes such as neglecting regular testing, overusing chemicals, and failing to maintain filtration systems, pool operators in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, can ensure that their pools are clean, safe, and inviting for swimmers. With consistent attention to detail and a commitment to regular maintenance, pool owners and operators can avoid the pitfalls that lead to poor water quality and maintain a pristine swimming environment for everyone to enjoy.

Got Questions? Let Us Help!

Welcome to Royal Water Works, Inc.! We are a family-owned business that has been serving the heart of Pisgah Forest, NC for over twenty years. As an environmental service company, Royal Water Works, Inc. partners with contract operations for water testing, water filtration design, wastewater operations, iron removal, PH adjusting, ultraviolet disinfection, and more. We provide a high degree of customer service and quality work to ensure we get the job done. Call us today; we can’t wait to hear from you!

Categorised in: Pool Water, Water Treatment Service