Starting a pool up, whether it be for the first time or after winter, can be a daunting task so it is recommended to work with a residential custom pool installation contractor. After the pool construction is completed, you need to know that there are chemicals to be added, pH levels that need to be tested and balanced, and filters that need to be cleaned. It can all seem very overwhelming, but don’t worry! Your local pool service can stop by to help.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about adding chemicals to your pool for the first time. We’ll cover what chemicals are needed, how to add them properly, and how to test your pool’s pH levels. By the end, you’ll be a pool chemical pro!

So, let’s get started…

The first chemical you’ll need to add to your pool is chlorine. Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant that will kill any harmful bacteria or algae that may be present in your pool water. There are many different types of chlorine available on the market, so be sure to ask your local pool service company for guidance on which one is best for your pool.

Once you’ve chosen a chlorine product, it’s time to add it to your pool water. The recommended dosage of chlorine for a new pool is 3-5 ppm (parts per million). To properly add chlorine to your pool, use a chemical floater or skimmer basket and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

After adding chlorine, you’ll need to test your pool’s pH levels. pH stands for “potential of hydrogen” and it measures how acidic or alkaline your pool water is. The ideal pH level for pool water is 7.4, but it’s important to test your water regularly to make sure it stays within the proper range.

There are a few different ways to test your pool’s pH levels. You can purchase test strips at your local pool supply store, or you can use a digital pH meter. To use test strips, simply dip them into your pool water and compare the color of the strip to the chart included with the strips. To use a digital pH meter, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

If your pool’s pH levels are too high or too low, you’ll need to adjust them. To raise the pH level, you’ll need to add an alkaline product such as sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). To lower the pH level, you’ll need to add an acidic product such as muriatic acid.

Once your pool’s pH levels are balanced, you’ll need to add a clarifier. Clarifiers help to remove any small particles that may be suspended in your pool water, making it appear clearer and more sparkling. There are many different types of clarifiers available on the market, so be sure to ask your local pool supply store for guidance on which one is best for your pool.

To properly add a clarifier to your pool, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Most clarifiers should be added through a skimmer basket or chemical floater.

After adding a clarifier, you’ll need to backwash your pool filter. Backwashing helps to remove any dirt and debris that may have been trapped in your filter during the clarification process. To backwash your pool filter, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Once your pool is filled with clean, chlorine-free water and your pH levels are balanced, your pool is ready for use! Be sure to test your pool’s pH levels regularly and add chlorine as needed to keep your pool clean and sparkling all season long.