Houston Pools: Is Summer Copper Ruining Lasers?
By Franklin Everett ShawImagine stepping into your backyard oasis, ready for a refreshing dip, only to find your pool water looking more like a science experiment gone wrong. Stains cling to the sides, and your once-pristine equipment is now sporting a greenish-blue hue. The culprit? Copper. And in Houston, with its unique water chemistry, this is a battle many pool owners face.
This isn’t just about aesthetics; copper buildup can wreak havoc on your pool system, especially those fancy saltwater chlorine generators and even those cool laser light features you invested in. Let’s dive into how to identify, remove, and, most importantly, prevent this metallic menace from ruining your Houston pool experience.
First, let’s talk about why copper ends up in your pool in the first place. The biggest offender is often algaecides containing copper sulfate. While effective at killing algae, these products release copper ions into the water. Houston’s water, often sourced from surface water reservoirs, can be naturally soft and acidic. This low pH water is corrosive, meaning it can leach copper from pipes and pool equipment.
How do you know if you have a copper problem? Look for these telltale signs:
- Green or blue staining on pool surfaces, especially plaster or vinyl liners.
- Greenish-blue tint to the water.
- Staining around pool lights and fittings.
- Metallic taste to the water (though I wouldn’t recommend tasting it!).
Now, let’s get down to brass tacks: removing the copper. The first step is to test your pool water. You’ll need a reliable test kit that measures copper levels. Taylor Technologies makes excellent kits, readily available at Leslie’s Pool Supplies or Pinch a Penny locations across Houston. Aim for a copper level of 0.0 ppm. Anything above 0.2 ppm warrants action.
Once you’ve confirmed the presence of copper, it’s time to use a sequestering agent. These chemicals bind to the copper ions, preventing them from staining surfaces and allowing them to be filtered out. Look for products specifically designed for copper removal, such as Jack’s Magic The Pink Stuff or SeaKlear Metal Klear. These are available at many pool supply stores in the Houston area, including online retailers with fast shipping to Houston addresses.
Follow the product instructions carefully. Typically, you’ll need to adjust your pool’s pH to the lower end of the recommended range (7.2-7.4) before adding the sequestering agent. This helps the chemical work more effectively. Add the sequestering agent directly to the pool water, distributing it evenly. Run your filter continuously for 24-48 hours. Backwash your filter afterward to remove the bound copper.
After the initial treatment, retest your water to ensure the copper levels have decreased. You may need to repeat the treatment if the levels are still high. It’s crucial to maintain proper water balance to prevent future copper issues. This means regularly testing and adjusting your pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness.
Houston’s water chemistry presents unique challenges. The soft, acidic water is particularly aggressive towards copper. To combat this, consider these preventative measures:
- Use a quality algaecide sparingly. Opt for non-copper-based algaecides whenever possible. Polyquat algaecides are a good alternative and are widely available in Houston pool supply stores.
- Maintain proper water balance. Keep your pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness within the recommended ranges. This will help prevent corrosion and copper leaching.
- Install a sacrificial anode. These devices are made of a metal that corrodes more easily than copper, protecting your pool equipment. They’re relatively inexpensive and easy to install. You can find them at most pool equipment suppliers in Houston.
- Consider a whole-house water filter. This can help remove copper and other minerals from your incoming water supply, reducing the risk of buildup in your pool. Companies like Kinetico offer water filtration systems specifically designed for Houston’s water.
Saltwater chlorine generators are particularly susceptible to copper damage. The electrolysis process can accelerate copper corrosion. If you have a saltwater system, it’s even more important to maintain proper water balance and use a sequestering agent regularly.
Laser light features, while visually stunning, can also be damaged by copper. The copper can deposit on the lenses, reducing their brightness and clarity. Regular use of a sequestering agent is essential to protect these delicate components.
One common mistake Houston pool owners make is overusing copper-based algaecides. They see a little algae and reach for the copper sulfate without considering the long-term consequences. A better approach is to address the underlying cause of the algae growth, such as poor circulation, inadequate filtration, or imbalanced water chemistry.
Another pitfall is neglecting water testing. Many pool owners rely on visual cues to determine water quality. However, copper levels can be high even if the water looks clear. Regular testing is the only way to accurately monitor copper levels and take corrective action.
Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of professional advice. If you’re struggling to control copper buildup in your pool, consult a qualified pool service technician. Many reputable companies in the Houston area, like Manning Pool Service or Blue Science Pools, can provide expert advice and assistance.
Removing copper stains can be challenging, especially if they’ve been present for a long time. In severe cases, you may need to drain and acid wash your pool. This is a messy and potentially dangerous process, so it’s best left to the professionals.
Preventing copper buildup is always easier and cheaper than removing it. By following these tips and staying vigilant about your pool’s water chemistry, you can keep your Houston pool sparkling clean and protect your valuable equipment. Don’t let copper ruin your backyard oasis. Take control and enjoy your pool to the fullest!