The impact of heatwaves on your pool water : what you need to know

Summer is synonymous with sunshine, swimming, and long days of relaxation by the pool. However, when a heatwave strikes, it can affect the quality of your pool water. In addition to the obvious effects of intense heat on our comfort, the high temperature can also disrupt the chemical balance of the water, increasing health risks for swimmers and complicating pool maintenance.
In this article, we will explore the various impacts of a heatwave on your pool water and the steps you can take to maintain the quality of your pool during these periods of extreme heat. 

            1. Accelerated Water Evaporation 

One of the first effects of a heatwave is the rapid increase in water evaporation. Under the influence of high temperatures, the water level in your pool can drop by several centimeters each week. This not only means you need to refill your pool more frequently but also results in an increased concentration of dissolved chemicals in the water. Insufficient water levels can also damage filtration equipment, as they won’t function properly if the water level is too low. 

SOLUTION : Regularly monitor your pool’s water level and top it up if necessary. Consider using a pool cover when the pool is not in use to reduce evaporation.

            2. Chemical Imbalance 

Intense heat promotes the rapid growth of microorganisms such as algae and bacteria. Moreover, the sun’s UV rays degrade chlorine faster than usual, reducing its effectiveness in keeping the water clean and safe. This can lead to cloudy water or even algae blooms, making the pool unattractive and potentially hazardous to health.

SOLUTION : Regularly check chlorine levels and adjust them accordingly. It may be necessary to add chlorine more frequently or use a chlorine stabilizer to extend its effectiveness. Also, regularly test the water’s pH, as an imbalance can exacerbate algae-related issues. 

            3. Risk of Algae Proliferation

With the combination of high temperatures and reduced chlorine effectiveness, algae find a fertile ground for growth. These microorganisms can multiply rapidly, turning the water green and slippery, requiring more intensive treatments to restore clear water. 

SOLUTION : Prevent algae proliferation by using algaecides at the first signs of intense heat. Regularly clean the pool walls and floor to remove algae spores before they develop.

            4. Cloudy Water

A heatwave can also lead to cloudy water, a problem that can quickly turn your pool into an uninviting pond. Cloudy water is usually due to a combination of factors exacerbated by heat, including chemical imbalance, inadequate filtration, or an overload of organic matter. 

SOLUTION : Test and adjust pH and chlorine levels to rebalance the water. Use a flocculant to cluster suspended particles, and ensure the filter is working correctly by cleaning it regularly. If necessary, apply a chlorine shock treatment to eliminate algae and bacteria, followed by a thorough pool cleaning. 

It is possible to maintain healthy and pleasant pool water throughout the summer despite the high temperatures by regularly monitoring water levels, adjusting chemicals, and taking measures to control water temperature. 

Proper and seasonal maintenance is the key to ensuring a worry-free summer, where the only thing you’ll need to think about is diving into crystal-clear, refreshing water.