7 Pool Myths Answered

Blue Lemon Pools | Pool Company in Queen Creek, AZ

Have misconceptions about swimming pools deterred you from making the most of your pool? Common myths, such as the need to wait 60 minutes after eating to swim or believing a strong chlorine scent indicates an excess of chemicals, often circulate. As your trusted experts in the field, we’re here to debunk these widespread pool myths. Below, we address and clarify the seven most prevalent myths surrounding pools.

#1 – Clear Pool Equals Healthy Pool – FALSE

Achieving clear water is a common aim, but clarity alone doesn’t guarantee the health of your pool. The only reliable indicator of a pool’s health is its water chemistry, confirmed through regular testing. Regardless of whether a professional service maintains your pool or you manage it yourself, conducting weekly water tests is essential for detecting unhealthy levels of microorganisms. These microorganisms won’t always change the color of your pool water to green or cause cloudiness, proving that a clear pool isn’t always synonymous with a healthy one.

#2 – Urinating in the Pool Changes Water Color – FALSE

The belief that urinating in the pool will change the water’s color likely originated from a parent’s attempt to deter their child from peeing in the pool, using it as a scare tactic. While it’s certainly not advisable to urinate in the pool, the water won’t change color to indicate an accident has occurred. Despite its implausibility, this myth continues to be taken at face value by numerous adults and children alike.

#3 – The Rule of Waiting an Hour to Swim After Eating: Somewhat True

The advice to wait before swimming after eating carries a kernel of truth, but it’s also partly based on cautionary advice from parents. It’s not strictly necessary to wait a full hour. Diving in right after a heavy meal can lead to cramps or discomfort because digestion requires increased blood flow to the stomach, reducing the amount available to other muscles, potentially causing cramps. This risk is more pronounced after consuming a large meal, hence the “half-truth” nature of this advice. Lighter meals may not necessitate a waiting period, allowing you to swim without worrying about cramps.

#4 – A Strong Chlorine Smell Indicates Too Much Chlorine – FALSE

The distinctive chlorine odor in your pool doesn’t necessarily mean there’s an excess of chlorine. Instead, when chlorine is added to pool water, it binds with bacteria to form chloramines through a process often referred to as “shocking” the pool. Chloramines arise from chlorine interacting with contaminants like urine, cosmetics, body oils, and sweat introduced by swimmers. Thus, the potent smell of chlorine is actually from the reaction of chlorine disinfecting these impurities. It’s the chloramines, not the chlorine itself, that are responsible for causing red eyes and itchy skin.

#5 – Chlorine Turns Blonde Hair Green – FALSE

Many believe that chlorine is the culprit behind blonde hair turning green after spending extensive time in pools, especially during summer. However, this common assumption is incorrect. The real reason for the green tint in blonde hair isn’t chlorine but metals present in the water, like copper, which are often used in pools to combat algae growth. It’s these metals, not chlorine, that lead to the discoloration of blonde hair.

#6 – Chlorine is to Blame for Eye Irritation – FALSE

Contrary to popular belief, chlorine isn’t the root cause of eye irritation or redness experienced by swimmers. The real culprit is water with an imbalanced pH level. Opting for a professional pool maintenance service ensures that the water chemicals are meticulously balanced, maintaining a pool environment that’s safe and comfortable for swimming. A well-maintained pool prioritizes chemical balance to prevent such discomfort.

#7 – Saltwater Pools are Chemical-Free? FALSE

Many assume saltwater pools operate without the need for chemicals, drawing a parallel to the natural saltwater found in oceans. However, this is not the case. In saltwater pools, salt (sodium chloride) is converted into the sanitizing agent Hypochlorous Acid, HOCl, through electrolytic plates within the salt system. These pools still necessitate the addition of chemicals and the maintenance of proper pH levels to function optimally. Parameters such as correct Calcium hardness and total alkalinity are also essential for saltwater pools. The misconception that saltwater pools are easier to maintain due to an absence of chemicals is unfounded. Indeed, issues like high phosphate levels can inhibit the production of chlorine (HOCl) in salt systems, demonstrating that, like all pools, saltwater variants require regular maintenance, daily care, and chemical management to ensure safety and usability.

Having debunked some of the major myths about pools, you’re now equipped to focus less on concerns and more on enjoying your pool. Remember, the key priority for any pool owner is to ensure pool safety, which means maintaining healthy water conditions at all times. If you’re in search of a reliable and knowledgeable pool maintenance service that offers affordability.