Proper Water Chemistry

Keep your pool water safe and clean

Why Balanced Water Matters

Maintaining properly balanced water chemistry is essential for protecting your Tallman fiberglass pool and ensuring safe swimming conditions. Improper water balance can lead to:

Unsafe swimming conditions may cause serious injury or illness.
Damage to your pool’s surface and equipment.
Loss of warranty coverage.

The Role of Water Chemistry in Pool Care

Pool water is constantly exposed to contaminants like algae, bacteria, and microorganisms (e.g., amoebas) through wind, fill water, and swimmers. Managing these contaminants is a continuous responsibility of the owner and involves:

Balancing Water Chemistry
Ensures safety for swimmers and protects your pool and equipment.
Sanitizing the Water
Breaks down and eliminates organic contaminants.
Filtering the Water
Removes byproducts of sanitization to keep the water clear.
Testing and Adjusting Regularly
Keeps all chemical levels within the recommended ranges.

Chemical Ranges for Your Tallman Fiberglass Pool

Below is a quick reference guide to the required chemical ranges for your pool:

Chemical	Recommended Range	Notes
pH	7.2–7.4	Ensures swimmer comfort, protects equipment, and supports effective sanitation.
Chlorine	1–3 ppm	Disinfects water, kills bacteria and algae, and keeps water clear.
Calcium Hardness	80–120 ppm	Prevents scaling and protects fiberglass surfaces.
Total Alkalinity	80–120 ppm	Stabilizes pH and prevents corrosive or scale-forming conditions.
Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer)	30–50 ppm	Protects chlorine from UV breakdown in outdoor pools.
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)	<1,500 ppm (Salt: 2,700–3,400 ppm depending on system)	Excessive TDS can affect water clarity and sanitizer effectiveness.
Langelier Saturation Index (LSI)	−0.30 to +0.30	Indicates overall water balance; slightly negative is safe for fiberglass pools.
Metal Content	0 ppm	Prevents staining and discoloration.

Important Notes:

Caution: Never allow LSI to exceed +0.30. In colder months, it may drop below −0.30 without issue. (Note: LSI was originally designed for concrete pools that require calcium to prevent etching. While it’s a useful reference, it should not be the cornerstone of fiberglass pool care.)
Use Only Fiberglass-Safe Chemicals: Avoid using products that contain calcium hypochlorite (Cal-hypo) or other chemicals that can damage fiberglass surfaces. These can lead to scaling, discoloration, and potential damage to your pool.
Maintain Weekly Records: To protect your pool’s warranty, you must keep a weekly written record of your water chemical levels. This ensures proper maintenance and helps identify any potential issues early.
For More Details: Refer to our Use & Care Manual for additional guidance on maintaining your fiberglass pool.

How to Keep Your Pool in Top Shape

Test your water regularly using a reliable pool testing kit.
Adjust chemical levels as needed to stay within the recommended ranges.
Use only fiberglass-safe chemicals to protect your pool’s surface and equipment.
Clean and maintain your pool filter to ensure proper water circulation.
Consult a pool care professional if you notice persistent issues like cloudy water or algae growth.

By following these guidelines, you’ll help ensure the safety, longevity, and beauty of your fiberglass pool. Regular water testing and proper chemical handling are the keys to success. When in doubt, always consult a fiberglass pool professional for expert advice.