Chemistry is the part of pool ownership that intimidates most people. It shouldn't. Six numbers, well understood, eliminate 95% of the problems we see.
If you live in the Dallas Fort Worth metroplex, you already know that pool ownership isn't passive. Pollen, hard water, heat, and the occasional freeze make even a "low-maintenance" pool a real piece of equipment. Pool water chemistry is one of the most common questions we hear, and the right answer changes the day-to-day experience of owning a pool.
The six numbers
| Parameter | Ideal | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Free Chlorine | 1.0–4.0 ppm | Active sanitizer |
| pH | 7.4–7.6 | Comfort + chlorine efficiency |
| Total Alkalinity | 80–120 ppm | Buffers pH against swings |
| Calcium Hardness | 200–400 ppm | Protects plaster + heater elements |
| Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer) | 30–50 ppm | Sun protection for chlorine |
| Salt (saltwater pools) | 2,700–3,400 ppm | Feeds chlorine generator |
How to test
Test 7-color digital strips or a Taylor K-2006 kit are the home options. Pros use calibrated photometers. Test at least twice a week in season; daily if recovering from anything.
When to call a pro
- Persistent green water after a shock
- Calcium hardness above 600 ppm
- Stains that don't respond to ascorbic acid
- Combined chlorine above 0.5 ppm with eye irritation