Pool Systems Introduction: Difference between revisions
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The filter sand should be replaced every 5-10 years. In a marcite pool, the filter sand should be replaced following the cure period of a new marcite coating (as the process releases a large number of particles, clogging the sand filters). | The filter sand should be replaced every 5-10 years. In a marcite pool, the filter sand should be replaced following the cure period of a new marcite coating (as the process releases a large number of particles, clogging the sand filters). | ||
== Chemical Monitoring == | |||
== Boiler == | == Boiler == | ||
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The flame sensor unit is a consumable item and may need to be replaced at a regular interval (every two years?). If the pilot valve (PV) is open, but the main valve (MV) never opens, it is likely that adequate flame is not being detected. This can be verified by measuring the microamp current output of the flame sensor and should be done by a qualified technician. | The flame sensor unit is a consumable item and may need to be replaced at a regular interval (every two years?). If the pilot valve (PV) is open, but the main valve (MV) never opens, it is likely that adequate flame is not being detected. This can be verified by measuring the microamp current output of the flame sensor and should be done by a qualified technician. | ||
== Chemical Treatment == | |||
The pool is treated with sodium hyprochlorite (chlorine) and hydrochloric (muriatic) acid automatically according to measurements. | |||
=== Monitoring === | |||
The acidity and amount of chlorine in the pool are monitored by pH and ORP (oxidation reduction potential) probes, respectively. When insufficient levels of either exists, the controller requests the addition of the respective chemical. Ideally, pH should be between 7.4 and 7.6. Proper pH prevents eye/skin irritation, maximizes chlorine effectiveness and minimizes corrosion. ORP should typically be between 650 mV and 750 mV for proper water disinfection. | |||
While ORP is a means for verifying the level of pool chlorine, it is not a direct measurement of chlorine. ORP measures chlorine's ability to oxidize pool contaminants. | |||
Care should be taken to minimize cyanuric acid (stabilizer) in the pool, as it may reduce ORP and affect chlorination control. | |||
=== Control === | |||
When requested, chlorine is added via the chlorinator loop and acid is added via the acid pump. Both of these are added post-boiler to minimize chemical interaction (corrosion) with the heat exchanger. | |||
Why acid? pH will almost never naturally drop. pH rises due to: | |||
* Removal of carbon dioxide from the water. Refer to the chemical reaction for carbonic acid for why carbon dioxide reduces pH. This is be caused by: | |||
** Splashing, which accelerates off-gassing via bubbles. | |||
** Algae, which consumes carbon dioxide (photosynthesis). | |||
** A general desire to be at equilibrium; the carbon dioxide concentration in the water approaches that of the air. | |||
** The addition of non-stabilized chlorine. | |||
** Chemical interaction with the cement-based liner (i.e. marcite). | |||
The pH will almost certainly rise faster when the pool is heavily occupied. | |||
Decomposition of leaves and acidic rain can lower pH, but these are considered minor contributors. | |||