When, Why, and How to Acid Wash a Pool
Algae and bacteria can make the pool unhealthy and less safe.
One of life's simple pleasures is jumping into a crystal-clear pool. Still, as time passes, the pool may look a little weathered, with stains and algae diminishing the pristine blue.
Acid washing gives the pool a fresh start. Let's discuss when, why, and how to acid wash.
When to acid wash
Acid washing shouldn't be part of regular pool maintenance. It should instead serve as a rescue for when the pool has seen better days and other cleaning methods are failing.
For example, if a severe algae bloom left the pool stained and murky even after treatments, it could be a good time for an acid wash.
Furthermore, minerals and chemicals stain the pool surface over time. Once these stains become intense enough to resist regular cleaning, acid washing restores the pool's look to its default glory.
Why acid wash?
One of the biggest reasons for acid washing is deep cleaning. It removes a thin layer of plaster and exposes a fresh, clean surface underneath while removing grime, algae, and stains.
Algae and bacteria can make the pool unhealthy and less safe. An acid wash will kill the lingering organisms and sanitize the pool.
Lastly, a clean pool is a beautiful pool. It brings back its original sparkle.
Still, this effect is also why it isn't a good idea to do it all the time.
How to acid wash
Acid washing isn't simple, so the first concern should be safety. It involves strong chemicals, so those doing it must get the gear ready: gloves, goggles, and protective clothing. Moreover, the pool area should have solid ventilation, especially indoors. Keep kids and pets away.
The pool must drain completely before acid washing can begin. Use a submersible pump and dispose of the water carefully and properly.
Mix hydrochloric acid with water in a plastic watering can. It should be around one part acid and one part water, but check the instructions for the acid levels so as not to overdo it.
Those who want to DIY it can carefully pour the acid onto the surface from the deep end. Then, use a brush to spread it and scrub away the stains without allowing the acid to sit too long in one spot. However, this task is fairly delicate, so DIY-ing is only good for those who have experience working with harsh chemicals and cleaning pools.
Ultimate pool cleaning
Acid washing is immensely powerful than any other pool cleaning method. Still, it is applied to a delicate surface and mustn't be taken lightly. If you are uncertain or uncomfortable handling strong chemicals, hiring a pool cleaning professional is best.
Pool Tile Cleaning Vegas offers pool tile cleaning, calcium removal, acid washing, pool draining, and media blasting services, in Las Vegas and Henderson. Call us at (702)605-6936.
