What is a PH minorator for swimming pools?
A Ph it's a chemical that is used in the Pool maintenance To adjust the water acidity level, keeping it in an optimal range.
This ideal level of pH, which is usually between 7.2 and 7.6, allows water to be safe, comfortable for swimmers and maximizes the effectiveness of other maintenance products, such as chlorine.
Maintaining the pH of the water within the appropriate range is essential for the pool water to be pleasant to the contact and safe for health. When the pH deviates too much from this range, problems can arise for swimmers and for the pool components. In addition, a unbalanced pH negatively affects Effectiveness of disinfectant products, which increases the risk of proliferation of bacteria and algae in the water.
Hydrochloric acid vs. Sulfuric acid: Which one to choose from?
When talking about pH minorities, the two most used acids are hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid. Although both can help Reduce the pool water pHThey have different characteristics and effects, so it is important to know their peculiarities before deciding which one to use.
Advantages and disadvantages of hydrochloric acid
He hydrochloric acid It is a strong and highly reactive acid that is commonly used in the Pool maintenance To adjust the pH of the water.
- Characteristics: It is known for its rapid action and high efficacy to quickly reduce pH levels in water. Due to its corrosive power, it is important to handle it with caution, using gloves and protective equipment.
- Common Uses in Pool Maintenance: Hydrochloric acid is used in the pool sector, not only to reduce pH, but also to remove tartar deposits and clean surfaces affected by the accumulation of minerals.
Advantages:
- Speed of action, allowing immediate pH adjustments.
- Accessible price compared to other chemical options.
- Easy to find in specialized stores.
Disadvantages:
- Its management requires special care due to its corrosive nature.
- You can damage the pool surfaces if it is not used correctly.
Advantages and disadvantages of sulfuric acid
He sulfuric acid It is another strong acid, but with a level of volatility less than hydrochloric acid. It is also used in the maintenance of pools such as PH regulator, although with a slower and more gradual action.
- Characteristics: Unlike hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid is less volatile, which facilitates its handling and application in pool water.
- Common Uses in Pool Maintenance: In addition to its function as a pH minorator, it is effective in neutralizing alkalinity.
Advantages:
- Its action is more gradual, allowing a controlled pH reduction and without sudden fluctuations.
- Lower volatility, which makes it a little safer to manipulate.
Disadvantages:
- It can produce accumulation of sulfates in the water over time, which may additionally require others Pool treatment products.
- There is a risk of corrosion in certain materials and components of the pool with its prolonged use.
Factors to consider when choosing a pH minorator
Choosing between hydrochloric or sulphuric acid depends on factors that can influence the result of the maintenance of the pool and the experience of those who enjoy it. Some points to consider are:
- Pool size: In large pools, where it is necessary to adjust large volumes of water, hydrochloric acid is usually more efficient due to its speed of action.
- Current pH level: If the pH level is well above the ideal range, hydrochloric acid can be the best option due to its rapid reduction capacity. On the other hand, if the necessary adjustment is mild, sulfuric acid can be adequate.
- Frequency of pool use: For frequently used swimming pools, it is important to keep the pH stable. In these cases, a gradual action option such as sulfuric acid could help reduce the need for frequent adjustments.
- Ease of application and security: If safety is a priority, sulfuric acid can be preferable due to its least volatility, although both acids require careful manipulation.
Tips to keep the pH of the stable pool
Maintaining the pH of the pool at optimal levels is a constant task, especially in times of greater use. Use Pool water analyzers and perform frequent pH measurements is key to anticipating adjustments and avoiding important unbalances.
- Recommended tools: Test kits and digital meters are effective tools to verify the water pH. Test kits offer an economic and precise option, while digital meters are very easy to use and give instant results.
- Recommended frequency: It is advisable to measure the pH daily in pools for intensive use. In occasional or seasonal pools, a weekly measurement could be sufficient to ensure that water is maintained in optimal conditions.
Alkalinity acts as a pH stabilizer, so keeping it at adequate levels (between 80-120 ppm) helps reduce pH fluctuations.
There are specific products that help maintain the stability of pH and alkalinity, prolonging the effects of pH minorities and reducing the need for constant adjustments.
Maintaining the pH within the ideal levels requires certain care, but with an adequate maintenance routine and the correct products, it is possible to enjoy a pool in optimal conditions throughout the season.