CALCIUM Hardness Ideal Level

[jason.jammer]

Hello Everyone,

I searched a bunch of threads on this topic but based on my pool log from today where should my sweet spot be for CH? I've also been looking at- Water Balance for SWGs - Trouble Free Pool and states 220-320 but What Are My Ideal Pool Levels? - Trouble Free Pool states 350-550.

Thanks!

 

[Oly]

Do you know the CH of your fill water?
I would raise you CH to 250 to raise your CSI and preserve the gel coat of your fiberglass. You can consider going higher but figure in fill water additions into the future.
My situation is similar to yours although I do not have a heater and not sure if that changes things.
Is your SWG ok with your current salt level? Is your pH stable?

 

[jason.jammer]

@Oly I added salt today, first day my pool was over 70 degrees. pH is normally 7.8 to 8.1 during the summer. Last year my CH was between 210-230.

 

[Texas Splash]

Jason, I understand your concern. I think we (TFP) need to look at that summary level for FG pools. We're looking into it. But basically 250 minimum and you should be fine. Above that you have lots of leeway which helps those across the country with really hard water. Technically us FG owners are not supposed to be overly concerned with CH that much except for stain protection, but we give a wide CH range for easier management.

 

[Oly]

@Oly I added salt today, first day my pool was over 70 degrees. pH is normally 7.8 to 8.1 during the summer. Last year my CH was between 210-230.

My pool stabilizes at a pH of 7.7 - 7-8 and I would not drive it down unless it gets to 8.0.
Do you have the K-1766 salt test?
My pool CH is currently in the low 200s and my fill water is only 100ppm, I'm keeping an eye on it over the summer and if still low bump it up before water temps drop again next fall/winter.

 

[jason.jammer]

@Oly Yes, I use K-1766 I find my test reading at 2100 and my SWG showing 2400. That's always fun finding the happy medium. Plus I stained my finger for the first time after pouring out the tube.