Best Way to Lower High CYA in a Swimming Pool

Summary

This video provides a comprehensive guide on lowering cyanuric acid levels in swimming pools using aluminum sulfate. Key steps include adjusting pH, calcium hardness, and water temperature, followed by a careful vacuuming process to remove sediment. The presenter explains the importance of using the right equipment and methods to avoid stirring up debris. Additionally, it offers alternatives like switching to liquid chlorine or calcium hypochlorite to naturally reduce cyanuric acid levels over time. Viewers are directed to detailed resources for further information, making this an essential watch for pool maintenance enthusiasts.

Takeaways

• 😀 Adjust the pH level of the pool to 7.0 before managing cyanuric acid.
• 😀 Maintain cyanuric acid levels between 30 to 50 ppm for optimal pool conditions.
• 😀 Ensure calcium hardness is kept between 200 to 400 ppm for effective water balance.
• 😀 Keep the water temperature between 70°F to 90°F to facilitate proper chemical reactions.
• 😀 Before adding aluminum sulfate, ensure the pool is free from heavy debris to prevent stirring up the flock.
• 😀 For effective flocking, broadcast aluminum sulfate at a rate of 8.33 pounds per 10,000 gallons of water.
• 😀 Run the pump for two hours after adding aluminum sulfate, then turn it off for at least 12 hours to allow settling.
• 😀 Use a portable vacuum system to remove the flock from the bottom of the pool slowly to avoid disrupting it.
• 😀 Test residual aluminum levels to ensure they remain below 0.2 ppm after treatment.
• 😀 Consider alternative sanitizers, such as liquid chlorine or calcium hypochlorite, to naturally lower cyanuric acid levels over time.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of using aluminum sulfate in pool maintenance?

Aluminum sulfate is used to lower cyanuric acid levels in a pool.

What is the ideal pH level for a pool before applying aluminum sulfate?

The pH level should be adjusted to 7.0.

What are the recommended calcium hardness levels for a pool?

Calcium hardness should be maintained between 200 to 400 ppm.

Why is it important to ensure the pool is free of debris before starting the treatment?

Debris can stir up the flock during vacuuming, which may hinder the effectiveness of the aluminum sulfate.

How long should the pump be turned off after adding aluminum sulfate?

The pump should remain off for at least 12 hours, preferably 24 hours.

What should be done with the filter before applying aluminum sulfate?

The filter should be set to recirculate or the filter elements should be removed.

How much aluminum sulfate is needed for a 20,000-gallon pool?

You would use approximately 17 pounds of aluminum sulfate.

What is the maximum allowable residual aluminum level after treatment?

The residual aluminum level should be below 0.2 parts per million.

What alternative methods can be used to lower cyanuric acid levels?

Switching to sanitizers without cyanuric acid or conducting partial drains of the pool can help lower levels over time.

Where can one find detailed guidance on the aluminum sulfate method discussed?

Detailed guidance can be found in Aqua Magazine's digital edition, specifically on page 10 of the August issue.