Pool Care Made Simple

POOL CARE
MADE SIMPLE
A Guide to Pool San
nita on & Maintenance
800-935-2947
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INTRODUCTION
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Swimming pools are an important part of the features your property uses
to a ract and retain tenants. This booklet was specifically designed to help
you maintain your pool while minimizing your maintenance me and costs.
Follow proper pool care procedures to keep your pool water sparkling clean
and clear.
Central Wholesalers and the GLB® brand are dedicated to providing you
with the very best quality pool care products available.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Reagent
Chemical tes ng compounds that are used to test
for chlorine, bromine, pH, total alkalinity, calcium
hardness, etc.
Residual
The amount of bromine or free available chlorine
remaining in the water.
Sani zer
A chemical agent used to destroy unwanted
microorganisms in water.
Scale
Mineral deposits that form on pool surfaces and
equipment due to excessive calcium in the water.
Sequestering Agent
A product that es up minerals ghtly in solu on,
preven ng their precipita on, which otherwise form
scale, color the water or stain surfaces.
Why Chemicals? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Adequate Filtra on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Pool Sizing Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Pool Test Strips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Balanced Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
pH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Sodium Carbonate
Sodium Bicarbonate
An organic compound of chlorine and cyanuric acid. The
two most common types are Trichloro-s-Triazinetrione
“trichlor” and sodium Dichloro-s-Triazinetrione “dichlor.”
Test Kit
A collec on of liquid and/or tablet reagents
assembled for the purpose of measuring a range of
water quality parameters.
Total Alkalinity (TA)
The amount of alkaline substances present in water. Low
total alkalinity can cause metal corrosion, plaster etching
and eye irrita on. High total alkalinity causes scale
forma on, poor chlorine efficiency and eye irrita on.
Total Chlorine
The sum of both the free and combined chlorine
residuals in water.
Total Hardness
The combined amount of calcium and magnesium
hardness in pool water.
Trichlor (Trichloro-sTriazinetrione)
A slow-dissolving, organic compound containing 90%
available chlorine, typically compressed into s cks and
tablets.
Yellow Algae
Microorganism that appears on pool walls as a fine dust.
Typically it is seen first on surfaces that don’t receive
direct sunlight. This algae is easy to brush off, but it
frequently returns. Also called Mustard Algae.
Chlorine Daily Usage Charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Balanced Water Needs to be Stabilized . . . . . . . 5
Super Chlorina on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Algae Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Water Hardness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Metals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Modified Satura on or Langlier Index . . . . . . . . 7
Chemical Catalog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
GLB® Sani zers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
GLB® Balancers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
GLB® Shock Treatments & Algae Control . . . . . 13
GLB® Clarifiers, Stain Control, Cleaners & Tes ng. . . 14
Handling & Storage of Pool Chemicals
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
A powder added to water to increase the
Total Alkalinity.
Stabilized Chlorine
Total Alkalinity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Chlorine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Soda Ash, a powder added to water to increase pH.
Glossary of Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
21
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Hypochlorous Acid
The ac ve state of chlorine which destroys bacteria
and other organic wastes.
Inorganic Chlorine
Unstabilized chlorine that is vulnerable to degrada on
by the ultraviolet rays of the sun.
Iron
A metal o en present in fill water that will give water
a greenish, yellow or rust-colored case.
Leaching
The process where improperly balanced pool water can
extract minerals from pool surfaces and plaster interiors.
Liquid Chlorine
Metals
The metals that may be present in water include iron
and copper. When either is dissolved in water, the
addi on of a shock product can turn the water various
colors and/or stain the surfaces.
Minerals
The minerals that may be present in water include
calcium, manganese, magnesium, nickel, copper,
silver, iron, cobalt and aluminum. In high, non-chelated
concentra ons, minerals can lead to stains and scale.
Mustard Algae
20
20
Sodium Hypochlorite formulated in water.
See Yellow Algae
Non-Chlorine Shock
Oxidizer
Chemical compounds used to oxidize or shock oxidize
the water without chlorine or bromine.
Oxidizer
A product that destroys organic and inorganic
contaminants such as ammonia, chloramines and
swimmer waste.
pH
A measurement that indicates the acidic or basic
nature of a water solu on. A pH of 7.0 is neutral. A pH
below 7.0 is acidic. A pH above 7.0 is basic.
Pink Algae
Not actually algae, but bacteria that form colonies with
a slimy top layer.
ppm
Parts Per Million, a unit of measurement that indicates
the amount, by weight, of a chemical in rela on to one
million parts by weight of water.
Quat
Quaternary ammonium algaecides, which are compounds
applied to water to prevent the growth of algae.
WHY WATER BALANCERS
ARE NEEDED IN
POOL WATER
Your swimming pool water may appear to be
clean. Bacteria cannot be detected by the naked
eye. Dissolved minerals in your water can show
up as stains or scale on your pool walls. A proper
chemical program will ensure that bacteria, algae
and other contaminants are destroyed. It will
also protect your investment and keep it looking
beau ful to serve as a source of pride for your
property.
ADEQUATE
FILTRATION &
CORRECT
CHEMICAL
TREATMENT
Where adequate filtra on, proper circula on
and correct water treatment are concerned,
one cannot take the place of the other. Your
filter and pump have been designed to meet the
physical requirements of your swimming pool,
but they are not intended to sani ze the water.
Remember to follow the filter manufacturer’s
recommenda ons regarding backwashing and
general maintenance. If your filtra on system is
not working properly, neither will your chemicals.
Check your skimmer baskets and strainer pot
periodically to be sure they are clear of debris and
water is flowing freely. Brushing and vacuuming
are also important when caring for a pool. Ensure
proper circula on by aiming the returns down
and away from the skimmer and drawing 1/2 of
the water through the main drain (if present).
Proper maintenance with a filter cleaner will keep
your filter opera ng effec vely. Cloudy condi ons
may be caused by small non-filterable par cles.
These par cles need to be collected together
making them larger and therefore filterable. A
water clarifier, such as GLB® Clear Blue® clarifer,
will achieve this.
1
By knowing the total gallons of the pool, you can quickly
determine the correct amount of chemicals that are needed
to ensure proper sanita on. The calcula on for total gallons
is quite simple, once the total surface area of the pool has
been established.
POOL SIZING GUIDE
RECTANGULAR POOL
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Chlorine
The most widely used sani zing agent for recrea onal
water treatment. In its elemental form it is a gas and
stored in cylinders. Various chlorina ng sani zers are
available for pools, including calcium hypochlorite and
chlorinated isocyanurates.
Chlorine Demand
The chlorine concentra on needed to establish a
stable, residual chlorine amount for proper sanita on.
Chlorine Residual
The amount of chlorine readily available to sani ze
pool water, i.e. not bound up chloramines.
Clarifier
A substance that causes fine suspended par cles
in water to combine into filterable or vacuumable
clusters.
Combined Chlorine
Chlorine which is chemically bonded to other compounds.
Corrosion
The effect of acidic water on plumbing and pool
surfaces when pH and/or alkalinity are very low.
Cyanuric Acid
A stabilizer compound added to pool water to reduce
the degrada on of chlorine by the ultraviolet rays of
the sun.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
A powdery filtering agent composed of the skeletal
remains of diatoms (a form of plankton) used in DE
filters.
DPD
(N,N-diethyl-p- phenylene-diamine) The reagent that
measures free available chlorine.
Filter Medium
Sand, DE or other material used to filter par cles out
of the water.
Flocculent
A chemical compound added to water causing
suspended par cles to bond together and sink to the
bo om of the pool where they can be vacuumed.
Free Available Chlorine
Chlorine in pool water that is not combined with
ammonia or nitrogenous compounds and is available
to sani ze the water.
Green Algae
A free-floa ng organism that turns water cloudy and
green. This type of algae is the most common and
easiest to clear up.
Hardness
The amount of calcium and magnesium dissolved in
water. It is measured in ppm.
Hypochlorite
An inorganic (unstabilized) family of chlorine
compounds used in various forms to provide chlorine
for water treatment. Hypochlorite includes
calcium hypochlorite and sodium hypochlorite. 19
Length X Width X Average Depth X 7.5 = Total Gallons
x
x
TOTAL
GALLONS
x 7.5 =
OVAL POOL
Long Diameter X Short Diameter X Average Depth X 5.9 = Total Gallons
x
x
TOTAL
GALLONS
x 5.9 =
ROUND POOL
Diameter X Diameter X Average Depth X 5.9 = Total Gallons
x
x
x 5.9 = TOTAL
GALLONS
IRREGULAR SHAPED POOL
Ask your builder or consult your pool dealer.
A er determining the total gallons of your pool, refer to the instruc ons on your pool
chemical labels for proper dosages.
2
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Acid Demand
The amount of acid needed to lower pH to the proper
level for pool water.
Algae
Microscopic plants deposited in pool or spa water by
wind, rain and dust.
Algaecide
Natural or synthe c substance used for killing,
destroying or controlling algae.
Alkaline
A condi on where the pH of water is above 7.0.
Alkaline (o en referred to as “base”) is the opposite
of acid.
Backwash
Bacteria
18
Test strips should be used to measure pH, total
alkalinity and bromine or chlorine on a regular
basis. The way you will know that the chemicals
are doing their job and the water is in balance is
by using your test strips. Don’t leave your test
strips in direct sunlight. Store them away from
your chemicals and follow the direc ons exactly
as instructed. Be sure to obtain new test strips at
the beginning of each pool season.
BALANCED WATER
It is important to maintain balanced pool
water in order to ensure op mum use of pool
chemicals. Balanced water is water that is in the
proper range of pH, total alkalinity, chlorine and
hardness. Out-of-balance water can increase
your pool chemical usage and lead to cloudy or
unsanitary water.
pH
The term “pH” is used to express the alkalinity
or acidity of pool water. On a scale of 0-14, with
0 being acidic and 14 being alkaline, 7 is neutral.
It has been determined that a range between
7.2 and 7.8 is the op mum range in which to
operate a swimming pool, with 7.4 being ideal
for a plaster pool and 7.6 being ideal for a nonplaster pool. A low pH indicates an acid condi on
in which your pool finish and equipment can
be damaged. A low pH also causes chlorine to
dissipate from pool water faster. A high pH
reduces the opera on level of the chlorine and
can cause cloudiness, scaling and could result
in algae and bacterial growth. Never add more
than 32 ounces per 10,000 gallons of either of
these products in one treatment.
Reversing the flow of water through the filter to clean
the elements of the filter.
Single-celled microscopic organisms.
Base Demand
The amount of base (or pH increaser) required to be
added to water to reach the proper pH range.
Black Algae
A type of algae that grows on pool walls and floors as
dark spots. Colonies usually form in areas with less
circula on. Black algae feels slimy and can be brushed
off with some effort. The algae imbed into porous pool
surfaces and can be difficult to completely remove.
Buffer
POOL TEST STRIPS
Chemicals that prevent fluctua ons in pH.
Calcium Carbonate
Scale that forms on pool surfaces from calcium
compounds when pool water is too alkaline, calcium
hardness is too high or total alkalinity is too high.
Calcium Hardness
The amount of calcium dissolved in water expressed
in ppm.
Calcium Hypochlorite
A highly efficient chlorina ng sanitzer that contains
calcium.
Chela ng Agent
A chemical compound that es up iron, copper or
calcium to prevent staining and scaling; also called a
sequestering agent.
Chloramines
(Combined Chlorine)
Substances formed when chlorine combines with
swimmer wastes (nitrogen or ammonia), causing
chlorine odor and irrita on to skin and eyes.
SCALING
ZONE
Add pH decreaser
IDEAL
ZONE
CORROSION
ZONE
Add pH increaser
www.cwip.com
14
13
12
11
10
9
8
7.6
7.5
7.4
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
800-935-2947
3
TOTAL ALKALINITY
CHLORINE
Total alkalinity is the measure of certain minerals
in the water. These minerals act as buffering
agents and allow you to readily control your pH
when in the correct range. In plaster pools, under
normal circumstances, a measurement of 70125 ppm is ideal. In painted, vinyl or fiberglass
pools, a reading between 125-150 should be
maintained. Total alkalinity should be adjusted
before adjus ng pH. GLB® Alkalinity Up will
raise total alkalinity, while a pH Down product
will lower your total alkalinity. Read all labels
carefully before use.
The most commonly used sani zer in swimming
pools is chlorine. Chlorine in its natural state is
a gas. This gas is difficult to handle. Chlorine gas
is combined with other elements to produce an
effec ve means of comba ng bacteria, algae and
other organic wastes. There are several types of
chlorina ng sani zers.
Stabilized
1. DiChlor - granular, fast-dissolving
2. TriChlor - slow-dissolving, solid tablets in various
shapes and sizes includings s cks and rings
Not Stabilized
1. Calcium Hypochlorite - granular, improper use can
contribute to scaling
2. Sodium Hypochlorite - referred to as liquid chlorine,
contains the lowest % available chlorine
3. Lithium Hypochlorite - granular, fast dissolving
Stabilized chlorina ng sani zers have builtin protec on against the sun’s ability to take
chlorine out of your pool water. See “Balanced
Water Needs to be Stabilized” on page 5.
When chlorine is first added to your pool, it must
sa sfy an ini al demand. This means that you
must destroy bacteria, algae and organic wastes
before maintaining a sufficient level of chlorine
protec on. This level is called your chlorine
residual or free available chlorine. A good level to
maintain is between 1.0 - 4.0 ppm. Lower levels
will not provide proper sanita on of the water.
Temperature, bather load and debris carried
into your pool by wind and rain will all affect
your chlorine level. The chart (on page 5) is an
approximate daily guide of stabilized chlorine
usage, ci ng both granular and solid chlorine.
4
HANDLING & STORAGE OF
POOL CHEMICALS
All chlorine-bearing compounds are oxidizing agents
and can cause fire or explosion if they come into contact
with other materials such as incompatible chemicals,
household cleaners, paint materials, oil or grease.
Chlorine is irrita ng to the skin and eyes,
therefore, contact with undiluted chlorina ng
sani zers must be avoided. Always read and
follow the label while handling and applying
them.
Chlorine compounds should be stored in cool and dry
places out of sunlight and out of the reach of children.
Chemicals used to control pH such as dry acids are also
considered dangerous and contact should be avoided.
All labels on pool chemicals should be read carefully
and strictly followed.
Keep chemical containers closed when not in use.
Empty containers should be disposed of immediately.
Never allow them to remain in the storage area.
Do not mix any pool chemicals together.
Add chemicals to the pool separately.
Measuring cups should be plas c, glass or enamel and
only used when clean and dry.
Only prescribed chlorine cartridges should be used.
Possible explosion can occur if cartridges are refilled
with the wrong chemicals.
Automa c chlorinators should not be installed in
unvented rooms.
Spills should be washed thoroughly with water. Avoid
pouring spillage into refuse containers as this could
result in fires. Never return sweepings of spilled
chemicals back to their original container.
Confirm the proper chemical for your chlorine feeder.
Possible explosion can result if enclosed feeders are
refilled with the wrong chemical.
Read all labels carefully and
follow instruc ons.
17
NOTES
CHLORINE DAILY USAGE CHARTS
Ounces required to increase the chlorine level by 1 ppm based on available chlorine in product
% AVAILABLE CHLORINE
Approximate
Gallons
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
35,000
40,000
Granular Calcium Hypochlorite*
47
65
73
3.0
4.5
6.0
7.5
9.0
10.5
12.0
13.5
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
8.0
9.0
1.5
2.5
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
8.0
Sodium Dichlor** Trichlor***
Granular
3” Tablet
56
90
1.5
2.5
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.5
8.5
9.5
1.0
1.5
2.5
3.0
4.0
4.5
5.5
6.0
*Unstabilized
**Stabilized
***Stabilized, each tablet weighs about 8 ounces
BALANCED WATER
NEEDS TO BE
STABILIZED
16
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Unstabilized chlorine is suscep ble to rapid
decomposi on from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
In order to improve chlorine’s ac ve life and
reduce this wasteful loss, an addi on of stabilizer
(cyanuric acid) is recommended. A dose of 30-50
ppm is recommended to maintain the proper
level. Again, follow the direc ons on the label
precisely. Chlorine usage is also affected by
temperature, bather load and environmental
condi ons. Test chlorine level every day to
insure 1 - 4 ppm free chlorine.
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5
SUPER CHLORINATION
Swimmer wastes such as suntan oil, perspira on
and cosme cs add unwanted debris to pool water.
Rain and severe storms also contribute to this
condi on. This can cause cloudy water and irrita ng
condi ons to both skin and eyes. These condi ons
contribute to combined chlorine which greatly
hinders the ability of your chlorine residual to work
effec vely. A periodic boost to your chlorine residual
is needed. This is termed “super chlorina on” or
“shock treatment.” Super chlorina on introduces
a concentra on range of 10 to 15 ppm. This will rid
your pool of unwanted wastes and help to restore
the sparkle to your pool water. A er shocking your
pool, allow for the residual chlorine level to drop to
the desired range of 1.0-4.0 ppm before using. Or,
as an alterna ve, you can use GLB® Oxy-Brite® nonchlorine shock oxidizer. Oxy-Brite® shock oxidizer is
a non-chlorine shock that allows for swimming as
quickly as 15 minutes a er use so there’s no need to
close the pool to shock.
ALGAE CONTROL
Algae comes in several forms, free-floa ng or
wall-clinging, and it can be in shades of green,
yellow, brown or black. It can be introduced by
rain, wind or even a bather’s swimming suit.
Unfortunately, sunlight and warm water create
a climate for algae to reproduce and grow. As
with any problem, the best cure is preven on. It
is recommended that you use a good algaecide
each week, such as a er shocking a pool in order
to control algae. Follow the direc ons on the
label. The algaecide will work in conjunc on
with the chlorine to destroy the algae and help
to prevent reoccurrences.
6
NOTES
15
CLARIFIERS, STAIN CONTROL, CLEANERS & TESTING
14
CLARIFIERS,STAIN
CONTROL,
CLEANERS & TESTING
Natural Clear® enzyme clarifier
Natural Clear® clarifier is a water cleaner that quickly rids
pools of organics that cause odors, scum lines, filter clogs
and cloudy water.
#11082
WATER HARDNESS
Another aspect of balanced water is “hardness.”
Certain metals need to be present in pool water
to sa sfy water’s aggressive need for metals.
This is measured in amounts of calcium and
magnesium. If this demand is not met, your
pool water will seek out its needs, a acking and
corroding your equipment and pool walls. The
desired range for calcium content is 200-400
ppm for pools.
If high levels of hardness persist, other problems
are encountered. Cloudy water and scaling of
your pool walls and equipment can occur. To
help keep high hardness levels in line, a stain,
scale or metal control product, such as GLB®
Super Sequa-Sol® sequestering agent, is used.
METALS
Iron, copper and manganese can enter your
pool through various sources. Copper based
algaecides, erosion of metal components or pool
fixtures and make-up water can all contribute.
A stain, scale or metal control product, such as
GLB® Sequa Sol or Super Sequa Sol can prevent
this problem. Should staining occur, use GLB®
Stain Magnet to remove the stains.
MODIFIED
SATURATION
OR LANGLIER
INDEX
The Satura on Index is a numeric equa on used
to determine the overall tendency of pool or spa
water to be either corrosive or scale forming.
Both of these characteris cs can shorten the
life of your pool’s plaster finish and opera ng
equipment or cause unsightly scale deposits to
form on the pool or spa finish and can cause
damage to your filter or heater elements.
All of the variables for the Satura on Index
can easily be determined with an accurate test
kit. Use the kit to test the water periodically to
monitor your pool water’s Satura on Index.
(See chart on page 8.)
32 oz.
Clear Blue® clarifier
This super-concentrated clarifier adds sparkle while
removing par cles that dull pool water. Clear Blue®
clarifier improves filter efficiency and reduces sani zer
demand by removing organic par cles that clog filters
without affec ng pH.
#83901
32 oz.
Stain Magnet
This granular formula quickly eliminates metallic stains
from pool surfaces with no need to test the water or close
the pool. It is safe for all types of pool surfaces.
#83909
2.5 lbs.
Filter Cleanse
This mul -purpose granular formula on cleans and unclogs filters of grease, oils and scale with a combina on of
acids and detergents. Its unique chemistry will gradually
change from red to yellow as it cleans.
#83917
2 lbs.
Pool Test Strips
Test water in seconds with GLB® 4-Way Test Strips. Use for
pools and spas to test pH, total alkalinity and free chlorine
or total bromine in one easy step. Each bo le contains 50
strips.
#11073
50 strips
GLBPool.com
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800-935-2947
7
SHOCK TREATMENTS
& ALGAE CONTROL
Satura on Index:
Add: pH + Temperature Factor + Calcium Factor + Alkalinity Factor – 12.1 = Satura on Index
Example: To determine the Satura on Index of water which has the following characteris cs
GLB® Super Charge II
GLB® Super Charge II sani zes, prevents algae and shock
treats pool water. The convenient, easy to use formula
meets the criteria of an NFPA Class I oxidizer. GLB®
Super Charge II contains 47% available chlorine.
#11086
90 lbs.
Factors to add
Test Results
pH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.4
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84˚F
Total Hardness . . . . . . . . . .220 ppm
Total Alkalinity . . . . . . . . . .150 ppm
Total
= 7.4
= 0.7 (Table A)
= 1.8 *(Table B)
= 2.2 (Table C)
= 12.1
-12.1
00.0
GLB® SuperSonic
This fast-dissolving formula contains 73% available
chlorine — the highest of any shock we offer. GLB®
SuperSonic sani zes, clarifies, fights algae and won’t
overstabilize pool water. It is safe for use on all pool
surfaces and leaves no residue.
*Total hardness must be converted to calcium hardness to use Table B. To convert above example, mul ply Total Hardness of 220
x 0.7 = 154ppm. Calcium Hardness equals 70% of total hardness.
#11130
25 lbs.
TABLE A
TEMPERATURE OF WATER
˚F
32
37
46
TF
0.0
0.1
0.2
53
0.3
60
66
0.4
0.5
76
0.6
84
0.7
94
0.8
105
0.9
Algimycin® 2000
Algimycin® 2000 kills, prevents and controls all algae
types. A special we ng agent penetrates and kills algae
cells. This nonmetallic, polycomplex formula gives fast
and effec ve control with no foaming or staining. It also
acts as a clarifier and filter aid by removing algae fast.
128
1.0
TABLE B
#11118
CALCIUM HARDNESS
ppm
CF
5
25
.3
50
1.0 1.3
75
1.5
100
150
1.6
200
1.8
300
1.9
2.1
400
2.2
800
2.5
1000
Strike-Out® algaecide
Designed to control green and mustard algae, this
chelated 7.4% copper algaecide is effec ve and
economical.
2.6
TABLE C
#11137
TOTAL ALKALINITY
ppm
AF
5
.7
25
50
1.4 1.7
75
1.9
100
2.0
150
2.2
200
2.3
300
2.5
400
2.6
800
2.9
32 oz.
32 oz.
1000
3.0
If the Satura on Index is 0.0, the water is in chemical balance. If the Index is a plus (+) number, scale
forming tendencies exist. If the Index is a minus (-) number, corrosive tendencies exist. Tolerance
limits are + or – 0.5.
Note: To achieve an acceptable balance, never adjust your pH below 7.2 or above 7.8.
8
GLBPool.com
13
SHOCK TREATMENTS & ALGAE CONTROL
MODIFIED SATURATION OR LANGLIER INDEX (cont’d)
BALANCERS
BALANCERS
Balancers are used to enhance the effects and
efficiency of chlorine. Balancers also help minimize
the amount of chlorine required to sani ze pool water.
Used in the proper dosage, balancers minimize the
damaging effects the sun has on chlorine.
NOTES
Stabilizer
This product is designed to reduce chlorine loss from
sunlight exposure.
#83931
10 lbs.
Calcium Hardness Up
Increase water hardness to prevent foaming, equipment
corrosion and scaling with Calcium Hardness Up.
#83742
15 lbs.
pH Up & pH Down
This dynamic duo allows you to raise and lower pH
levels as needed. Keeping proper pH levels will ensure
pool sani zers are working at maximum efficiency and
prevent stain and scale forma on.
pH Up
#83894
8 lbs.
pH Down
#11089 10 lbs.
Alkalinity Up
This balancer increases the alkalinity of pool water to
prevent the pH level from fluctua ng.
#83766
12
25 lbs.
GLBPool.com
9
GLB® Granular
With 56% available stabilized chlorine, GLB® Granular
Dichlor offers easy pool sani za on in a fast-dissolving
formula. It’s ideal for daily chlorina on and does not
contain calcium.
#83876
50 lbs.
Small 1” Tablets
GLB® one-half ounce tablets provide a powerful 90%
available stabilized chlorine. Slow-dissolving tablets are
ideal for use in floaters, feeders and skimmers. (99%
trichloro-s-triazinetrione)
#83805
#83860
25 lbs.
50 lbs.
Large 3” Tablets
Use these slow-dissolving tablets for con nuous
disinfec on with floaters, feeders or skimmers. GLB®
Large 3” tablets offer 90% available chlorine and are
99% trichloro-s-triazinetrione.
#83980
GLB® Poolcare Bromina ng Tablets
GLB® offers the advantages of bromine sani zing with
its 1” bromina ng tablets. Use with automa c feeders.
CHEMICAL CATALOG
GLB® Sani zers
pg. 11
GLB® Balancers
pg. 12
50 lbs.
GLB® Shock Treatments
& Algae Control
pg. 13
GLB® Clarifiers, Stain Control,
Cleaners & Tes ng
#11121
pg. 14
50 lbs.
GLB® S cks
These large 8-ounce s cks provide 90% available
stabilized chlorine. They are slow-dissolving and are
ideal for floaters, feeders and skimmers. (99% trichloros-triazinetrione)
#83814
10
GLBPool.com
50 lbs.
11
SANITIZERS
C ATA L O G
SANITIZERS
GLB® Granular
With 56% available stabilized chlorine, GLB® Granular
Dichlor offers easy pool sani za on in a fast-dissolving
formula. It’s ideal for daily chlorina on and does not
contain calcium.
#83876
50 lbs.
Small 1” Tablets
GLB® one-half ounce tablets provide a powerful 90%
available stabilized chlorine. Slow-dissolving tablets are
ideal for use in floaters, feeders and skimmers. (99%
trichloro-s-triazinetrione)
#83805
#83860
25 lbs.
50 lbs.
Large 3” Tablets
Use these slow-dissolving tablets for con nuous
disinfec on with floaters, feeders or skimmers. GLB®
Large 3” tablets offer 90% available chlorine and are
99% trichloro-s-triazinetrione.
#83980
GLB® Poolcare Bromina ng Tablets
GLB® offers the advantages of bromine sani zing with
its 1” bromina ng tablets. Use with automa c feeders.
CHEMICAL CATALOG
GLB® Sani zers
pg. 11
GLB® Balancers
pg. 12
50 lbs.
GLB® Shock Treatments
& Algae Control
pg. 13
GLB® Clarifiers, Stain Control,
Cleaners & Tes ng
#11121
pg. 14
50 lbs.
GLB® S cks
These large 8-ounce s cks provide 90% available
stabilized chlorine. They are slow-dissolving and are
ideal for floaters, feeders and skimmers. (99% trichloros-triazinetrione)
#83814
10
GLBPool.com
50 lbs.
11
SANITIZERS
C ATA L O G
SANITIZERS
BALANCERS
BALANCERS
Balancers are used to enhance the effects and
efficiency of chlorine. Balancers also help minimize
the amount of chlorine required to sani ze pool water.
Used in the proper dosage, balancers minimize the
damaging effects the sun has on chlorine.
NOTES
Stabilizer
This product is designed to reduce chlorine loss from
sunlight exposure.
#83931
10 lbs.
Calcium Hardness Up
Increase water hardness to prevent foaming, equipment
corrosion and scaling with Calcium Hardness Up.
#83742
15 lbs.
pH Up & pH Down
This dynamic duo allows you to raise and lower pH
levels as needed. Keeping proper pH levels will ensure
pool sani zers are working at maximum efficiency and
prevent stain and scale forma on.
pH Up
#83894
8 lbs.
pH Down
#11089 10 lbs.
Alkalinity Up
This balancer increases the alkalinity of pool water to
prevent the pH level from fluctua ng.
#83766
12
25 lbs.
GLBPool.com
9
SHOCK TREATMENTS
& ALGAE CONTROL
Satura on Index:
Add: pH + Temperature Factor + Calcium Factor + Alkalinity Factor – 12.1 = Satura on Index
Example: To determine the Satura on Index of water which has the following characteris cs
GLB® Super Charge II
GLB® Super Charge II sani zes, prevents algae and shock
treats pool water. The convenient, easy to use formula
meets the criteria of an NFPA Class I oxidizer. GLB®
Super Charge II contains 47% available chlorine.
#11086
90 lbs.
Factors to add
Test Results
pH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.4
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84˚F
Total Hardness . . . . . . . . . .220 ppm
Total Alkalinity . . . . . . . . . .150 ppm
Total
= 7.4
= 0.7 (Table A)
= 1.8 *(Table B)
= 2.2 (Table C)
= 12.1
-12.1
00.0
GLB® SuperSonic
This fast-dissolving formula contains 73% available
chlorine — the highest of any shock we offer. GLB®
SuperSonic sani zes, clarifies, fights algae and won’t
overstabilize pool water. It is safe for use on all pool
surfaces and leaves no residue.
*Total hardness must be converted to calcium hardness to use Table B. To convert above example, mul ply Total Hardness of 220
x 0.7 = 154ppm. Calcium Hardness equals 70% of total hardness.
#11130
25 lbs.
TABLE A
TEMPERATURE OF WATER
˚F
32
37
46
TF
0.0
0.1
0.2
53
0.3
60
66
0.4
0.5
76
0.6
84
0.7
94
0.8
105
0.9
Algimycin® 2000
Algimycin® 2000 kills, prevents and controls all algae
types. A special we ng agent penetrates and kills algae
cells. This nonmetallic, polycomplex formula gives fast
and effec ve control with no foaming or staining. It also
acts as a clarifier and filter aid by removing algae fast.
128
1.0
TABLE B
#11118
CALCIUM HARDNESS
ppm
CF
5
25
.3
50
1.0 1.3
75
1.5
100
150
1.6
200
1.8
300
1.9
2.1
400
2.2
800
2.5
1000
Strike-Out® algaecide
Designed to control green and mustard algae, this
chelated 7.4% copper algaecide is effec ve and
economical.
2.6
TABLE C
#11137
TOTAL ALKALINITY
ppm
AF
5
.7
25
50
1.4 1.7
75
1.9
100
2.0
150
2.2
200
2.3
300
2.5
400
2.6
800
2.9
32 oz.
32 oz.
1000
3.0
If the Satura on Index is 0.0, the water is in chemical balance. If the Index is a plus (+) number, scale
forming tendencies exist. If the Index is a minus (-) number, corrosive tendencies exist. Tolerance
limits are + or – 0.5.
Note: To achieve an acceptable balance, never adjust your pH below 7.2 or above 7.8.
8
GLBPool.com
13
SHOCK TREATMENTS & ALGAE CONTROL
MODIFIED SATURATION OR LANGLIER INDEX (cont’d)
CLARIFIERS, STAIN CONTROL, CLEANERS & TESTING
14
CLARIFIERS,STAIN
CONTROL,
CLEANERS & TESTING
Natural Clear® enzyme clarifier
Natural Clear® clarifier is a water cleaner that quickly rids
pools of organics that cause odors, scum lines, filter clogs
and cloudy water.
#11082
WATER HARDNESS
Another aspect of balanced water is “hardness.”
Certain metals need to be present in pool water
to sa sfy water’s aggressive need for metals.
This is measured in amounts of calcium and
magnesium. If this demand is not met, your
pool water will seek out its needs, a acking and
corroding your equipment and pool walls. The
desired range for calcium content is 200-400
ppm for pools.
If high levels of hardness persist, other problems
are encountered. Cloudy water and scaling of
your pool walls and equipment can occur. To
help keep high hardness levels in line, a stain,
scale or metal control product, such as GLB®
Super Sequa-Sol® sequestering agent, is used.
METALS
Iron, copper and manganese can enter your
pool through various sources. Copper based
algaecides, erosion of metal components or pool
fixtures and make-up water can all contribute.
A stain, scale or metal control product, such as
GLB® Sequa Sol or Super Sequa Sol can prevent
this problem. Should staining occur, use GLB®
Stain Magnet to remove the stains.
MODIFIED
SATURATION
OR LANGLIER
INDEX
The Satura on Index is a numeric equa on used
to determine the overall tendency of pool or spa
water to be either corrosive or scale forming.
Both of these characteris cs can shorten the
life of your pool’s plaster finish and opera ng
equipment or cause unsightly scale deposits to
form on the pool or spa finish and can cause
damage to your filter or heater elements.
All of the variables for the Satura on Index
can easily be determined with an accurate test
kit. Use the kit to test the water periodically to
monitor your pool water’s Satura on Index.
(See chart on page 8.)
32 oz.
Clear Blue® clarifier
This super-concentrated clarifier adds sparkle while
removing par cles that dull pool water. Clear Blue®
clarifier improves filter efficiency and reduces sani zer
demand by removing organic par cles that clog filters
without affec ng pH.
#83901
32 oz.
Stain Magnet
This granular formula quickly eliminates metallic stains
from pool surfaces with no need to test the water or close
the pool. It is safe for all types of pool surfaces.
#83909
2.5 lbs.
Filter Cleanse
This mul -purpose granular formula on cleans and unclogs filters of grease, oils and scale with a combina on of
acids and detergents. Its unique chemistry will gradually
change from red to yellow as it cleans.
#83917
2 lbs.
Pool Test Strips
Test water in seconds with GLB® 4-Way Test Strips. Use for
pools and spas to test pH, total alkalinity and free chlorine
or total bromine in one easy step. Each bo le contains 50
strips.
#11073
50 strips
GLBPool.com
www.cwip.com
800-935-2947
7
SUPER CHLORINATION
Swimmer wastes such as suntan oil, perspira on
and cosme cs add unwanted debris to pool water.
Rain and severe storms also contribute to this
condi on. This can cause cloudy water and irrita ng
condi ons to both skin and eyes. These condi ons
contribute to combined chlorine which greatly
hinders the ability of your chlorine residual to work
effec vely. A periodic boost to your chlorine residual
is needed. This is termed “super chlorina on” or
“shock treatment.” Super chlorina on introduces
a concentra on range of 10 to 15 ppm. This will rid
your pool of unwanted wastes and help to restore
the sparkle to your pool water. A er shocking your
pool, allow for the residual chlorine level to drop to
the desired range of 1.0-4.0 ppm before using. Or,
as an alterna ve, you can use GLB® Oxy-Brite® nonchlorine shock oxidizer. Oxy-Brite® shock oxidizer is
a non-chlorine shock that allows for swimming as
quickly as 15 minutes a er use so there’s no need to
close the pool to shock.
ALGAE CONTROL
Algae comes in several forms, free-floa ng or
wall-clinging, and it can be in shades of green,
yellow, brown or black. It can be introduced by
rain, wind or even a bather’s swimming suit.
Unfortunately, sunlight and warm water create
a climate for algae to reproduce and grow. As
with any problem, the best cure is preven on. It
is recommended that you use a good algaecide
each week, such as a er shocking a pool in order
to control algae. Follow the direc ons on the
label. The algaecide will work in conjunc on
with the chlorine to destroy the algae and help
to prevent reoccurrences.
6
NOTES
15
NOTES
CHLORINE DAILY USAGE CHARTS
Ounces required to increase the chlorine level by 1 ppm based on available chlorine in product
% AVAILABLE CHLORINE
Approximate
Gallons
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
35,000
40,000
Granular Calcium Hypochlorite*
47
65
73
3.0
4.5
6.0
7.5
9.0
10.5
12.0
13.5
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
8.0
9.0
1.5
2.5
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
8.0
Sodium Dichlor** Trichlor***
Granular
3” Tablet
56
90
1.5
2.5
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.5
8.5
9.5
1.0
1.5
2.5
3.0
4.0
4.5
5.5
6.0
*Unstabilized
**Stabilized
***Stabilized, each tablet weighs about 8 ounces
BALANCED WATER
NEEDS TO BE
STABILIZED
16
www.cwip.com
Unstabilized chlorine is suscep ble to rapid
decomposi on from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
In order to improve chlorine’s ac ve life and
reduce this wasteful loss, an addi on of stabilizer
(cyanuric acid) is recommended. A dose of 30-50
ppm is recommended to maintain the proper
level. Again, follow the direc ons on the label
precisely. Chlorine usage is also affected by
temperature, bather load and environmental
condi ons. Test chlorine level every day to
insure 1 - 4 ppm free chlorine.
800-935-2947
5
TOTAL ALKALINITY
CHLORINE
Total alkalinity is the measure of certain minerals
in the water. These minerals act as buffering
agents and allow you to readily control your pH
when in the correct range. In plaster pools, under
normal circumstances, a measurement of 70125 ppm is ideal. In painted, vinyl or fiberglass
pools, a reading between 125-150 should be
maintained. Total alkalinity should be adjusted
before adjus ng pH. GLB® Alkalinity Up will
raise total alkalinity, while a pH Down product
will lower your total alkalinity. Read all labels
carefully before use.
The most commonly used sani zer in swimming
pools is chlorine. Chlorine in its natural state is
a gas. This gas is difficult to handle. Chlorine gas
is combined with other elements to produce an
effec ve means of comba ng bacteria, algae and
other organic wastes. There are several types of
chlorina ng sani zers.
Stabilized
1. DiChlor - granular, fast-dissolving
2. TriChlor - slow-dissolving, solid tablets in various
shapes and sizes includings s cks and rings
Not Stabilized
1. Calcium Hypochlorite - granular, improper use can
contribute to scaling
2. Sodium Hypochlorite - referred to as liquid chlorine,
contains the lowest % available chlorine
3. Lithium Hypochlorite - granular, fast dissolving
Stabilized chlorina ng sani zers have builtin protec on against the sun’s ability to take
chlorine out of your pool water. See “Balanced
Water Needs to be Stabilized” on page 5.
When chlorine is first added to your pool, it must
sa sfy an ini al demand. This means that you
must destroy bacteria, algae and organic wastes
before maintaining a sufficient level of chlorine
protec on. This level is called your chlorine
residual or free available chlorine. A good level to
maintain is between 1.0 - 4.0 ppm. Lower levels
will not provide proper sanita on of the water.
Temperature, bather load and debris carried
into your pool by wind and rain will all affect
your chlorine level. The chart (on page 5) is an
approximate daily guide of stabilized chlorine
usage, ci ng both granular and solid chlorine.
4
HANDLING & STORAGE OF
POOL CHEMICALS
All chlorine-bearing compounds are oxidizing agents
and can cause fire or explosion if they come into contact
with other materials such as incompatible chemicals,
household cleaners, paint materials, oil or grease.
Chlorine is irrita ng to the skin and eyes,
therefore, contact with undiluted chlorina ng
sani zers must be avoided. Always read and
follow the label while handling and applying
them.
Chlorine compounds should be stored in cool and dry
places out of sunlight and out of the reach of children.
Chemicals used to control pH such as dry acids are also
considered dangerous and contact should be avoided.
All labels on pool chemicals should be read carefully
and strictly followed.
Keep chemical containers closed when not in use.
Empty containers should be disposed of immediately.
Never allow them to remain in the storage area.
Do not mix any pool chemicals together.
Add chemicals to the pool separately.
Measuring cups should be plas c, glass or enamel and
only used when clean and dry.
Only prescribed chlorine cartridges should be used.
Possible explosion can occur if cartridges are refilled
with the wrong chemicals.
Automa c chlorinators should not be installed in
unvented rooms.
Spills should be washed thoroughly with water. Avoid
pouring spillage into refuse containers as this could
result in fires. Never return sweepings of spilled
chemicals back to their original container.
Confirm the proper chemical for your chlorine feeder.
Possible explosion can result if enclosed feeders are
refilled with the wrong chemical.
Read all labels carefully and
follow instruc ons.
17
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Acid Demand
The amount of acid needed to lower pH to the proper
level for pool water.
Algae
Microscopic plants deposited in pool or spa water by
wind, rain and dust.
Algaecide
Natural or synthe c substance used for killing,
destroying or controlling algae.
Alkaline
A condi on where the pH of water is above 7.0.
Alkaline (o en referred to as “base”) is the opposite
of acid.
Backwash
Bacteria
18
Test strips should be used to measure pH, total
alkalinity and bromine or chlorine on a regular
basis. The way you will know that the chemicals
are doing their job and the water is in balance is
by using your test strips. Don’t leave your test
strips in direct sunlight. Store them away from
your chemicals and follow the direc ons exactly
as instructed. Be sure to obtain new test strips at
the beginning of each pool season.
BALANCED WATER
It is important to maintain balanced pool
water in order to ensure op mum use of pool
chemicals. Balanced water is water that is in the
proper range of pH, total alkalinity, chlorine and
hardness. Out-of-balance water can increase
your pool chemical usage and lead to cloudy or
unsanitary water.
pH
The term “pH” is used to express the alkalinity
or acidity of pool water. On a scale of 0-14, with
0 being acidic and 14 being alkaline, 7 is neutral.
It has been determined that a range between
7.2 and 7.8 is the op mum range in which to
operate a swimming pool, with 7.4 being ideal
for a plaster pool and 7.6 being ideal for a nonplaster pool. A low pH indicates an acid condi on
in which your pool finish and equipment can
be damaged. A low pH also causes chlorine to
dissipate from pool water faster. A high pH
reduces the opera on level of the chlorine and
can cause cloudiness, scaling and could result
in algae and bacterial growth. Never add more
than 32 ounces per 10,000 gallons of either of
these products in one treatment.
Reversing the flow of water through the filter to clean
the elements of the filter.
Single-celled microscopic organisms.
Base Demand
The amount of base (or pH increaser) required to be
added to water to reach the proper pH range.
Black Algae
A type of algae that grows on pool walls and floors as
dark spots. Colonies usually form in areas with less
circula on. Black algae feels slimy and can be brushed
off with some effort. The algae imbed into porous pool
surfaces and can be difficult to completely remove.
Buffer
POOL TEST STRIPS
Chemicals that prevent fluctua ons in pH.
Calcium Carbonate
Scale that forms on pool surfaces from calcium
compounds when pool water is too alkaline, calcium
hardness is too high or total alkalinity is too high.
Calcium Hardness
The amount of calcium dissolved in water expressed
in ppm.
Calcium Hypochlorite
A highly efficient chlorina ng sanitzer that contains
calcium.
Chela ng Agent
A chemical compound that es up iron, copper or
calcium to prevent staining and scaling; also called a
sequestering agent.
Chloramines
(Combined Chlorine)
Substances formed when chlorine combines with
swimmer wastes (nitrogen or ammonia), causing
chlorine odor and irrita on to skin and eyes.
SCALING
ZONE
Add pH decreaser
IDEAL
ZONE
CORROSION
ZONE
Add pH increaser
www.cwip.com
14
13
12
11
10
9
8
7.6
7.5
7.4
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
800-935-2947
3
By knowing the total gallons of the pool, you can quickly
determine the correct amount of chemicals that are needed
to ensure proper sanita on. The calcula on for total gallons
is quite simple, once the total surface area of the pool has
been established.
POOL SIZING GUIDE
RECTANGULAR POOL
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Chlorine
The most widely used sani zing agent for recrea onal
water treatment. In its elemental form it is a gas and
stored in cylinders. Various chlorina ng sani zers are
available for pools, including calcium hypochlorite and
chlorinated isocyanurates.
Chlorine Demand
The chlorine concentra on needed to establish a
stable, residual chlorine amount for proper sanita on.
Chlorine Residual
The amount of chlorine readily available to sani ze
pool water, i.e. not bound up chloramines.
Clarifier
A substance that causes fine suspended par cles
in water to combine into filterable or vacuumable
clusters.
Combined Chlorine
Chlorine which is chemically bonded to other compounds.
Corrosion
The effect of acidic water on plumbing and pool
surfaces when pH and/or alkalinity are very low.
Cyanuric Acid
A stabilizer compound added to pool water to reduce
the degrada on of chlorine by the ultraviolet rays of
the sun.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
A powdery filtering agent composed of the skeletal
remains of diatoms (a form of plankton) used in DE
filters.
DPD
(N,N-diethyl-p- phenylene-diamine) The reagent that
measures free available chlorine.
Filter Medium
Sand, DE or other material used to filter par cles out
of the water.
Flocculent
A chemical compound added to water causing
suspended par cles to bond together and sink to the
bo om of the pool where they can be vacuumed.
Free Available Chlorine
Chlorine in pool water that is not combined with
ammonia or nitrogenous compounds and is available
to sani ze the water.
Green Algae
A free-floa ng organism that turns water cloudy and
green. This type of algae is the most common and
easiest to clear up.
Hardness
The amount of calcium and magnesium dissolved in
water. It is measured in ppm.
Hypochlorite
An inorganic (unstabilized) family of chlorine
compounds used in various forms to provide chlorine
for water treatment. Hypochlorite includes
calcium hypochlorite and sodium hypochlorite. 19
Length X Width X Average Depth X 7.5 = Total Gallons
x
x
TOTAL
GALLONS
x 7.5 =
OVAL POOL
Long Diameter X Short Diameter X Average Depth X 5.9 = Total Gallons
x
x
TOTAL
GALLONS
x 5.9 =
ROUND POOL
Diameter X Diameter X Average Depth X 5.9 = Total Gallons
x
x
x 5.9 = TOTAL
GALLONS
IRREGULAR SHAPED POOL
Ask your builder or consult your pool dealer.
A er determining the total gallons of your pool, refer to the instruc ons on your pool
chemical labels for proper dosages.
2
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Hypochlorous Acid
The ac ve state of chlorine which destroys bacteria
and other organic wastes.
Inorganic Chlorine
Unstabilized chlorine that is vulnerable to degrada on
by the ultraviolet rays of the sun.
Iron
A metal o en present in fill water that will give water
a greenish, yellow or rust-colored case.
Leaching
The process where improperly balanced pool water can
extract minerals from pool surfaces and plaster interiors.
Liquid Chlorine
Metals
The metals that may be present in water include iron
and copper. When either is dissolved in water, the
addi on of a shock product can turn the water various
colors and/or stain the surfaces.
Minerals
The minerals that may be present in water include
calcium, manganese, magnesium, nickel, copper,
silver, iron, cobalt and aluminum. In high, non-chelated
concentra ons, minerals can lead to stains and scale.
Mustard Algae
20
20
Sodium Hypochlorite formulated in water.
See Yellow Algae
Non-Chlorine Shock
Oxidizer
Chemical compounds used to oxidize or shock oxidize
the water without chlorine or bromine.
Oxidizer
A product that destroys organic and inorganic
contaminants such as ammonia, chloramines and
swimmer waste.
pH
A measurement that indicates the acidic or basic
nature of a water solu on. A pH of 7.0 is neutral. A pH
below 7.0 is acidic. A pH above 7.0 is basic.
Pink Algae
Not actually algae, but bacteria that form colonies with
a slimy top layer.
ppm
Parts Per Million, a unit of measurement that indicates
the amount, by weight, of a chemical in rela on to one
million parts by weight of water.
Quat
Quaternary ammonium algaecides, which are compounds
applied to water to prevent the growth of algae.
WHY WATER BALANCERS
ARE NEEDED IN
POOL WATER
Your swimming pool water may appear to be
clean. Bacteria cannot be detected by the naked
eye. Dissolved minerals in your water can show
up as stains or scale on your pool walls. A proper
chemical program will ensure that bacteria, algae
and other contaminants are destroyed. It will
also protect your investment and keep it looking
beau ful to serve as a source of pride for your
property.
ADEQUATE
FILTRATION &
CORRECT
CHEMICAL
TREATMENT
Where adequate filtra on, proper circula on
and correct water treatment are concerned,
one cannot take the place of the other. Your
filter and pump have been designed to meet the
physical requirements of your swimming pool,
but they are not intended to sani ze the water.
Remember to follow the filter manufacturer’s
recommenda ons regarding backwashing and
general maintenance. If your filtra on system is
not working properly, neither will your chemicals.
Check your skimmer baskets and strainer pot
periodically to be sure they are clear of debris and
water is flowing freely. Brushing and vacuuming
are also important when caring for a pool. Ensure
proper circula on by aiming the returns down
and away from the skimmer and drawing 1/2 of
the water through the main drain (if present).
Proper maintenance with a filter cleaner will keep
your filter opera ng effec vely. Cloudy condi ons
may be caused by small non-filterable par cles.
These par cles need to be collected together
making them larger and therefore filterable. A
water clarifier, such as GLB® Clear Blue® clarifer,
will achieve this.
1
INTRODUCTION
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Swimming pools are an important part of the features your property uses
to a ract and retain tenants. This booklet was specifically designed to help
you maintain your pool while minimizing your maintenance me and costs.
Follow proper pool care procedures to keep your pool water sparkling clean
and clear.
Central Wholesalers and the GLB® brand are dedicated to providing you
with the very best quality pool care products available.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Reagent
Chemical tes ng compounds that are used to test
for chlorine, bromine, pH, total alkalinity, calcium
hardness, etc.
Residual
The amount of bromine or free available chlorine
remaining in the water.
Sani zer
A chemical agent used to destroy unwanted
microorganisms in water.
Scale
Mineral deposits that form on pool surfaces and
equipment due to excessive calcium in the water.
Sequestering Agent
A product that es up minerals ghtly in solu on,
preven ng their precipita on, which otherwise form
scale, color the water or stain surfaces.
Why Chemicals? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Adequate Filtra on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Pool Sizing Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Pool Test Strips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Balanced Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
pH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Sodium Carbonate
Sodium Bicarbonate
An organic compound of chlorine and cyanuric acid. The
two most common types are Trichloro-s-Triazinetrione
“trichlor” and sodium Dichloro-s-Triazinetrione “dichlor.”
Test Kit
A collec on of liquid and/or tablet reagents
assembled for the purpose of measuring a range of
water quality parameters.
Total Alkalinity (TA)
The amount of alkaline substances present in water. Low
total alkalinity can cause metal corrosion, plaster etching
and eye irrita on. High total alkalinity causes scale
forma on, poor chlorine efficiency and eye irrita on.
Total Chlorine
The sum of both the free and combined chlorine
residuals in water.
Total Hardness
The combined amount of calcium and magnesium
hardness in pool water.
Trichlor (Trichloro-sTriazinetrione)
A slow-dissolving, organic compound containing 90%
available chlorine, typically compressed into s cks and
tablets.
Yellow Algae
Microorganism that appears on pool walls as a fine dust.
Typically it is seen first on surfaces that don’t receive
direct sunlight. This algae is easy to brush off, but it
frequently returns. Also called Mustard Algae.
Chlorine Daily Usage Charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Balanced Water Needs to be Stabilized . . . . . . . 5
Super Chlorina on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Algae Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Water Hardness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Metals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Modified Satura on or Langlier Index . . . . . . . . 7
Chemical Catalog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
GLB® Sani zers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
GLB® Balancers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
GLB® Shock Treatments & Algae Control . . . . . 13
GLB® Clarifiers, Stain Control, Cleaners & Tes ng. . . 14
Handling & Storage of Pool Chemicals
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
A powder added to water to increase the
Total Alkalinity.
Stabilized Chlorine
Total Alkalinity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Chlorine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Soda Ash, a powder added to water to increase pH.
Glossary of Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
21
POOL CARE
MADE SIMPLE
A Guide to Pool San
nita on & Maintenance
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For specialty chemical ques ons:
800.445.2059 • Fax 800.482.5295 • GLBPool.com
Advan s, Advan s Technologies and GLB are businesses of Arch Chemicals, Inc. GLB®, the GLB® logo, Natural Clear®,
Clear Blue®, Algimycin® and Strike-Out® are registered trademarks of Arch Chemicals, Inc. Advan s™ and Advan s Technologies™
are trademarks of Arch Chemicals, Inc. © 2012 Arch Chemicals, Inc. All rights reserved. Arch is now a part of Lonza.
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