When to Chlorine Wash instead of Acid Wash
When to Chlorine Wash instead of Acid Wash
As a pool owner in Ahwatukee, AZ, it’s likely that you already implement regular pool cleaning on a weekly basis. However, you’ll also be required to complete a more thorough clean from time to time. In these moments, knowing whether to choose a chlorine wash or acid wash is essential.
Both treatments have important roles to play in keeping your pool in perfect condition, but they are designed to treat different problems. Let’s take a look at when you should use each.
Chlorine Washes
A chlorine wash is a cleaning process that focuses on using chemicals to address imbalances with the pool water while additionally fighting off algae. It may be used as part of remediation for algae blooms or to regain control when you notice the early signs of algae growth.
This type of cleaning also sanitizes the pool, creating a safer environment for your family to enjoy the pool. By ‘resetting’ the balance of chemicals, it should be easier to stay on top of weekly maintenance too.
To complete a chlorine wash, you will first need to turn off the pool pump and drain the water away. The next steps include mixing and applying the solution before scrubbing the surfaces. You’ll also need to rinse the chlorine solution away and remove wastewater before finally refilling the pool.
Acid Washes
An acid wash is an alternative pool cleaning process that uses an abrasive acid solution to tackle stubborn stains rather than chemical imbalances. It can be used to treat rust, grease, oil, iron, and calcium buildups. As well as removing those unsightly materials, it reverses discoloration.
Acid washes are designed to remove physical stains and deposits, which is why they are a little more damaging as they will corrode a small layer of the plaster. However, this treatment isn’t frequently used so you don’t need to worry as long as the job is completed correctly.
The process of acid washing your pool begins with draining the pool and removing debris, but also covering surrounding areas to prevent corrosion in unwanted areas. After preparing the acid solution, you’ll need to wet the surface before applying the mixture. It is important to scrub the area quickly and firmly before rinsing.
You’ll then need to neutralize the acid with sodium bicarbonate before removing wastewater and refilling the pool. It’s also important to tackle the project in sections while completing the job in one session.
When to Use Chlorine Washes and Acid Washes
When looking at the difference between chlorine washes and acid washes, the type of chemicals used is the obvious starting point. In truth, though, you should worry more about the right moments to use them. This quick table should provide a valuable recap:

As well as choosing the right type of wash, it’s vital that you complete the process in the correct way. If you need a team of experts to bring your pool back to its best, call Tukee Pools today.
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