Calcium chloride is added to pool water to bring up the levels of calcium, magnesium and sodium in the pool. The combined level of these minerals is known as calcium hardness. If the pool does not have the appropriate levels of these minerals, it will pull them from other sources such as the concrete, stone, grout, masonry or metal surrounding the pool. This can lead to costly repairs.Continue Reading
If calcium hardness levels get too high, scale forms on pool surfaces and in the pipes, plumbing and filters. High levels may also strain eyes. Draining the water is one way to lower the calcium hardness level. Commercial hardness reducers bond with calcium, keeping it trapped in solution, and act to lower the levels. The ideal range for calcium hardness is between 200 and 400 parts per million.
Rain or melted snow can reduce the calcium hardness in the pool. Adding water from the local water supply can also reduce the calcium hardness since these supplies typically have a calcium hardness level much lower than that of the pool water. Testing for calcium hardness is recommended after these events to maintain the levels in the pool and prevent the costly effects of damage.Learn more about Pools & Hot Tubs