Pool Pro Tip:

Removing metals from your pool

Why removing metals is important?

This is because chlorine initially binds with metals, such as copper and iron, before targeting bacteria, viruses, and algae. If chlorine binds to metals first, its efficacy against unwanted microorganisms is significantly reduced.

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1. Digital Water Test

Perform a precise-digital water test to accurately detect metals. Metals, such as iron and copper, can infiltrate pool water from various sources including objects such as metal poles, hair clips and toys, and other sources such as municipal leaching particularly if the water comes from wells. Furthermore, the corrosion of metal pipes within the water supply and aging plumbing, along with contributions from pool equipment like water heaters, can actively introduce these metals into the pool environment.

2. Effects of Copper

Chlorine chemically reacts with copper, forming copper chloride compounds. This reaction is particularly notable in acidic conditions. The consequences of such reactions include the precipitation of copper compounds, leading to water discoloration and the potential for staining surfaces. Additionally, excessive copper presence can hinder chlorine’s effectiveness against bacteria, viruses, and algae, compromising the overall disinfection of the pool water.

3. Effects of Iron

Iron chemically reacts with chlorine, resulting in the formation of iron chloride compounds. When iron is present in excess, it can lead to issues such as water discoloration and the development of rusty or brownish stains on pool surfaces. Also, the reaction between iron and chlorine can diminish the efficacy of chlorine as a disinfectant, potentially compromising the pool water’s ability to combat bacteria, viruses, and algae. Regularly managing and removing excess iron is crucial to maintain water quality and prevent aesthetic and functional issues in the pool.

How to remove metals?

Metal sequestrants work in pool water by forming stable complexes with metal ions, such as copper and iron. These sequestrants contain molecules with multiple binding sites that attract and encapsulate metal ions, preventing them from causing unwanted reactions or staining. Essentially, metal sequestrants act as chelating agents, forming a protective barrier around metal ions. The name “sequestrant” comes from Latin and means “to withdraw from”.

In the case of copper and iron, metal sequestrants help by binding to these ions and keeping them in a soluble, non-reactive form. This prevents the metals from oxidizing or reacting with other pool chemicals, reducing the likelihood of staining surfaces or interfering with chlorine’s disinfection capabilities. Regular use of metal sequestrants is an effective strategy to manage and control metal content in pool water, maintaining water clarity and preventing aesthetic issues.

Chelating agents remove metals like copper and iron by forming stable, water-soluble complexes with these metal ions. The term “chelate” comes from the Greek word for “claw,” indicating that these agents surround and encapsulate the metal ions.

Chelating agents have multiple binding sites, known as ligands, that chemically attach to metal ions. This bonding forms a ring-like structure, creating a stable complex. Once bound, the chelate prevents the metal ions from reacting with other substances in the water, such as oxidizing or forming insoluble compounds that could lead to staining.

In the context of pool water treatment, chelating agents, or metal sequestrants, play a crucial role in preventing the adverse effects of metals. By keeping metals in a soluble, non-reactive state, these agents help maintain water quality, prevent staining on pool surfaces, and ensure the effective operation of other pool chemicals, such as chlorine. Regular addition of chelating agents is often recommended, especially in pools prone to metal-related issues.

Surface Stains

Failing to eliminate metals like iron and copper from your pool might lead to surface staining and the emergence of undesirable colors caused by chemical reactions in the pool water.

Caution

Algaecides may contain copper and its excessive use may result in counterproductive effects, keep in mind that the best algaecide is chlorine itself.

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