Metals can be introduced into the water through foreign object or equipment, such as copper piping and fittings, heat exchanger, using copper sulphate and other copper-based algaecides, or source water. The presence of metals in pool water may cause staining to the liner, fiberglass, or concrete as well as an unusual colour-change to the water itself. It is best to bring a water sample to Buds as soon as the staining or discolouration occurs to be treated.
How to Treat and Prevent Metals and Staining
All treatments begin with a Bucket Test
- Take 20L of pool water. Add 1 Cup of pH adjuster (minus or plus, depending on current level) to the pool water.
- If no colour change, you can move on with the treatment.
- If a colour change occurs in the bucket, bring a sample to Bud’s Spas and Pools. DO NOT ADD CHEMICAL TO POOL. DO NOT ADD BUCKET TEST WATER BACK TO POOL.
- Bring in a water sample to be tested.
- Follow the treatment provided by the water lab.
Treatment includes a pH adjustment, a sequestering agent, shock and clarifier.
- Ensuring the pH is at 7.2 and chlorine is at 2ppm or lower.
- Adding chemicals like Meta Ban or Meta Stain Prevent to the water.
- Using Clari Tabs (sand filter, can be added immediately) or Clear (cartridge filter)
- Shocking the pool with Zap
- It is important to wait an hour between each chemical and ensure the pool is circulating 24/7 during treatment.
- After 48hrs, backwash for 3-5 minutes or rinse the cartridge(s)
- Additionally, an Eliminator Pouch can be added to the skimmer to aid in the removal of metals.
Tips & Tricks
- Treating a pool weekly with Meta Stain Prevent to prevent the presence of metals and staining.
- Test pool water on a regular basis.
- Weekly with test strips and at least once a month for in-store testing.
- Keep the pump and filter running 24/7.
- Do not mix chemicals with anything metal – use wood or plastic instead.
- Pools with iron will have an orange-reddish stain and will have a colour change of yellow/brown when chemicals are added.
- Pools with copper will have a blue/green to black stain and will have a colour change of blue/green or grey/black when chemicals are added.
When in doubt, call the store and we would be more than happy to help!
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