Over the last few weeks, we have taken calls about the novel COVID- 19 in relation to pool water! The main question has typically been, “can it be spread in pool water?”
With so much confusion going around about the new Coronavirus, we felt it our responsibility to at least clarify a little bit on a subject, that we as pool professionals should all know very well! With the impending threat of having to stay home all summer, a pool can be just the stress release that you need!
To answer the question above, according to the CDC, there is “no evidence” that the Coronavirus can spread through pool water.
Well, that is great news!! Particularly in a time when there isn’t too much going around!
Proper Operation of your pool and pool chemicals when it comes to viruses!
Please keep in mind that although the CDC says there is “no evidence” of the spread of the novel virus in pool water, you must be sure to keep your pool operating properly with proper sanitation and water balance. Be sure to use CHLORINE OR BROMINE sanitizing programs and be sure to have balanced water at all times!
How long should I operate my pool pump and filter?
Just like any other time when operating a pool, you must make sure the pool pump and filter are operating properly at all times. Also be sure to run your pool pump no less than 12 hours per day and that your filter is as clean as possible at all times.
Proper pool chemistry with or with out Coronavirus!
The CDC has has not made any mention that the pool water chemistry has to change from your standard every day pool chemistry! So just as normal, please follow the chart below to keep proper balance of your pool water. You may increase chlorine/bromine levels slightly if you wish but do so with caution and beware of the damage it can cause!
Free Chlorine – 1-3 ppm
Free Bromine – 1-5 ppm
pH – 7.2 – 7.6 (PLEASE KEEP THIS IN PROPER RANGE AS pH BEING OUT OF RANGE CAN AFFECT THE STRENGTH OF THE CHLORINE AND BROMINE )
Alkalinity- 80 – 150 ppm (PLEASE KEEP THIS IN PROPER RANGE AS pH BEING OUT OF RANGE CAN AFFECT THE STRENGTH OF THE CHLORINE AND BROMINE )
CYA/Cyanuric Acid/Stabilizer – 20-35 ppm (Too much stabilizer will significantly decrease the effectiveness of chlorine)
What are some other things I can do to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 around my swimming pool?
- Keep anyone who is sick away from the pool
- Disinfect all pool equipment with chlorinated water before and after use!
- Be sure to not overload your pool with too many swimmers!
- Wash all swim trunks, bathing suits, towels and any other clothing related items with hot water after swimming is complete.
Below is an image on “6 Tips for Pool Owners During Viral Outbreaks” provided to us by our wonderful manufacturers at River Pools and Spa!
I hope I shed some light on the topic and helped clear up any fear or confusion on pool water and the Coronavirus! We here at Royal Pools believe it to be our duty to help wherever and whenever we can, particularly in trying times like these! In this case during this health scare, this was a topic we wanted to tackle head on as we are perfectly suited for it.
Moving forward whatever happens, stay calm, follow CDC Guidelines on prevention, and maybe now you can enjoy your pool this summer without fear and clear of confusion!
