I do agree with Robert that maintaining a pool does not have to be difficult, but I would say that some learn some hard lessons when they don’t do their homework.

Robert’s comments also makes me wary of my own local pool now too….

I’m the pool operator at our local YMCA and keeping an 80,000 gallon pool balanced is pretty easy, once you all the elements in place and know what you’re doing. Get the right info. and apply what you know, with a little common sense, and it should fall into place.

Chlorine 3.5-4.5, alkalinity 80-100, ph 7.6-7.8, not 7.2, hardness 150-250, not up to 400.

You have to stay on top of it because the chlorine can go down in a matter of hours if no one properly checks it.

Just be sure your getting the right info. The index most pool operators use comes from public water systems, not from pools.

Also, be sure the public pool you attend follows the proper procedures for pool closures and decontamination.

I know of a few that just scoop out what they can, check the chlorine, and call it good.

Swimmer beware…

Go to:

http://www.clean-pool-and-spa.com/pool-water-maintenance.html

http://www.clean-pool-and-spa.com/swimming-pool-maintenance-tips.html

http://www.clean-pool-and-spa.com/swimming-pool-chlorine.html

for great info