Pool Chemistry 101: Avoid These 4 Common Mistakes Homeowners Make

Owning a pool is all fun and games—until the water turns cloudy or your eyes start to sting. While pool maintenance doesn’t have to be a headache, understanding the basics of pool chemistry is essential to keeping your water clean, clear, and safe. Here are four common mistakes homeowners make with pool chemicals—and how to avoid them:

1. “More Is Better” Thinking
Using too much chlorine or shock can throw off your pool’s balance and damage your liner or equipment. Always follow product directions and test your water before adding more chemicals.

2. Ignoring pH & Alkalinity
pH and total alkalinity work hand-in-hand to maintain water balance. When pH is too low, water becomes acidic; too high, and it gets cloudy. Aim for a pH between 7.2 and 7.8 and check levels weekly.

3. Mixing Chemicals Incorrectly
Never mix chemicals together before adding them to your pool, and don’t pour them all in at once. Some combinations can cause dangerous reactions or reduce effectiveness.

4. Forgetting About Stabilizer
Without cyanuric acid (pool stabilizer), chlorine burns off too quickly in the sun. Maintaining the right stabilizer level can help your chlorine work smarter, not harder.

A little knowledge goes a long way. If you’re unsure about your water chemistry, contact us or bring a sample to one of our Pool & Spa Depot stores for testing. With the right balance, your pool can stay crystal clear all season long.