5. Where are the stains in my pool coming from and how do I prevent and/or remove them?

Iron, copper and manganese are the most common metals occurring in pool water. When pH is low (below 7.0), these metals are in solution. But when pH is adjusted to the desired level of 7.2-7.6, metals can drop out of solution, staining the pool surfaces and discoloring the pool water. Chlorinating products and shock products can also oxidize metals, making them more visible and resulting in unwanted staining.

Unwanted metal content in the water can come from the source water. Copper can also be introduced to the water in copper-based algicides. It can also come from the corrosion of copper heat exchangers and copper piping caused by pool water imbalance.

(Visit A-B-C Maintenance Program for more information on balancing your water.)

Although home tests for metal content are available in "deluxe" test kits, most stains and metal deposits can be prevented with regular use of a stain and scale inhibitor. It ties up excess iron, copper and manganese in the water. It can also be used to aid in the removal of fresh stains and clear up green water caused by copper or iron in solution. Old or very persistent stains may require acid washing for removal.

(For product information, go to Specialty Products.)

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This analysis is designed for use only with the Pool Time® brand products named in this computerized water analysis printout, and is correct to the best of RWP, Inc.'s knowledge. RWP is not responsible for any use of this printout with products other than the Pool Time ® brand products named in this printout, and use of this printout with other products could result in improper or incorrect treatment of the pool water.