CHEMICALS   HINTS & TIPS    GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
  • Algae
    Microscopic plants that grow in water in the absence of chlorine.
  • Bacteria
    One-celled organisms - some of which cause disease and/or infection.
  • pH Buffer
    A chemical which when added to water, will cause it to resist pH change.
  • Calcium Hardness
    The quantity of calcium dissolved in water, may promote scale or corrosion.
  • Chlorine
    A sanitizing agent which kills bacteria and prevents algae growth.
  • Chlorine Demand
    The amount of chlorine required to rid a particular pool of existing bacteria, algae and swimmers' wastes.
  • Chlorine Stabilizer
    (Cyanuric Acid). Prolongs the effective life of chlorine in pool water by 'screening' the chlorine from UV breakdown by the sun.
  • Free Chlorine
    The active form of chlorine that actually kills bacteria and algae.
  • pH
    A measure of acidity or basicity. Readings below 7 are acidic, readings above 7 are basic.
  • ppm
    Parts per million, a standard measure of chemical or mineral concentration.
  • Shock Treatment
    The addition of a large dose of chlorine to establish a chlorine residual, bread down accumulated organic wastes and/or kill existing algae and bacteria. Non-chlorine shock reduces combined chlorine and eliminates chloramine odor.
  • Total Alkalinity
    A measure of certain alkaline minerals. Aids in preventing fluctuations in pH.
  • Water Balance
    Balanced water occurs when the pH, Total Alkalinity, and other mineral levels are in their proper range.