Test the water

Use a reliable pool water testing kit to measure the current levels of chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness in your pool water.

Adjust pH levels

If the pH is too high (above 7.6), add pH reducer (such as muriatic acid) to bring it down. If the pH is too low (below 7.2), add pH increaser (like soda ash) to raise it.

Adjust alkalinity

If the total alkalinity is too high (above 120 ppm), add alkalinity reducer (like sodium bisulfate) to lower it. If it's too low (below 80 ppm), add alkalinity increaser (such as baking soda) to raise it.

Balance calcium hardness

If the calcium hardness is too low (below 200 ppm), add calcium hardness increaser. If it's too high (above 400 ppm), you may need to partially drain and refill the pool to lower it.

Sanitize with chlorine

Maintain proper chlorine levels (usually between 1-3 ppm) by adding chlorine tablets, liquid chlorine, or using a salt chlorinator system. This helps kill bacteria and algae.

Shock the pool

Regularly shock the pool by adding a chlorine shock treatment to eliminate contaminants and restore chlorine levels. Follow the instructions on the shock product for dosage and wait times.

Monitor cyanuric acid (stabilizer) levels

Cyanuric acid helps protect chlorine from sunlight. Ideally, it should be kept between 30-50 ppm. Add stabilizer if it's too low or consider diluting the water if it's too high.

Brush and vacuum

Regularly brush the pool walls and floor to prevent algae growth, and use a pool vacuum to remove debris.

Maintain proper circulation

Run the pool pump and filter for an adequate amount of time to ensure proper water circulation and filtration.

Regularly retest and adjust

Test the water chemistry at least once a week and make adjustments as needed to maintain balanced pool water.