The guidelines set by The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals are widely used, but to be certain, you should also check the health codes of the jurisdiction where you live. The chemicals a pool needs to maintain the required standards differ from pool to pool—and day to day. Keeping records to “get to know” a pool can help you interpret its characteristics and perform the correct task.
The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals
Suggested Chemical Standards for Swimming Pools
| Free Chlorine, ppm | 2.0 – 4.0 |
| Combined chlorine, ppm | None |
| pH | 7.2 – 7.8 (ideal range of 7.4 – 7.6) |
Total alkalinity, ppm
|
80 – 100
100 – 120 |
| Total dissolved solids, ppm | Not to exceed 1500 greater than at pool start-up |
| Calcium Hardness, ppm | 200 – 400 |
| Cyanuric acid, ppm | 30 – 50 |
