A swimming pool is essentially a contained living
body of water which, if not balanced, chemically maintained and
filtered, will eventually (usually up to 14 days) turn stagnant
(green, cloudy with a possible unpleasant odor) and allow for
dangerous bacteria to thrive (the main cause of skin, nose and
eye irritations). The four main factors that contribute or accelerate
the rate at which a swimming pool turns stagnant and unhealthy
are:
Algae - The most common method of introducing
algae to your swimming pool is by wind. Algae spores are
around us the whole time floating within the atmosphere.
Algae will deposit itself within your pool and providing
conditions are conducive, will begin to multiply. Algae
(black, mustard or green) will cause unsightly stains on
your pool but more importantly will provide nutrients for
bacteria to thrive on. The combination of algae and bacteria
will cause the water to discolour - usually to green.
Bathers - The average bather will introduce
perspiration, body oils, suntan oils, urine and dirt into
the swimming pool. If these are not chemically broken down
they will contribute to your pool turning stagnant.
Extreme Weather - Extreme weather conditions
in the form of lightning, rain and prolonged heat spells,
will alter the water balance (pH) of your pool which in
turn limits the efficacy of all pool chemicals.
Filtration - The most common swimming
pool filtration system in SA is the sand filter. The filtration
system (pump, motor and filter) circulates water through
the filter sand removing dead algae, waste and debris. It
also assists the distribution of chemicals in your pool
water. To ensure that your pool water quality is kept at
its best your pool filtration system needs to be serviced
every two years.
