Did you know that water in Las Vegas is considered extremely hard, with a hardness level of 278 parts per million (PPM) or 16 grains per gallon? Usually, hard water can impose some serious threats to the lifespan of your washing machine and boiler, but it can affect the longevity of your pool as well. That’s why it’s crucial to maintain a proper calcium hardness level in your pool to keep it in pristine condition. 

On the other hand, remember that hard water can not only cause corrosion of your pool equipment but also negatively affect your health by causing skin irritation. 

Thankfully, there’s a way to deal with hard water. Keep reading our tips for pool maintenance in Las Vegas and keep your worries at bay! 

Test Your Pool Water

To ensure you’re facing a hard water problem, you should first test your pool water. You can check the calcium level in your pool with a chemical test or a strip that you can purchase from a pool center.

The standard level should be 250-350 PPM. If the calcium level in your pool exceeds 350 PPM, you’ll need a garden hose filter to reduce the calcium amount by draining some water from your pool. Don’t forget that you shouldn’t completely drain your pool unless you want to do some structural adjustments.

Test the pH, Alkalinity, and Chlorine Levels

If there are some changes in the pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels, then they should warn you of possible calcium hardness. Normally, they range between the following numbers: 

  • 7.2 – 7.4 for the pH level
  • 1-3 PPM for chlorine level
  • 80-120 for alkalinity level

Lower the Alkalinity of the Water by Adding Muriatic Acid

Another way to put hard water in your pool under control is by using muriatic acid. All you have to do is put 2-3 capfuls of muriatic acid to lower the alkalinity to 80. Test the alkalinity again after 12 hours. 

Use Flocculant

To bring down the calcium level of your pool, you can use flocculant, a chemical that helps clumping the calcium particles together so they can sink to the pool bottom. Once that’s done, you can clean them with a pool vacuum. Remember to turn off your pump and filter before putting flocculant into the water. This way, you’ll avoid getting any flocculant stuck in your filter. 

Looking for More Tips About Pool Maintenance in Las Vegas? Talk With Our Team!

Since Las Vegas is classified as a “hard water area,” proper pool maintenance is crucial. Properly balanced water is a must for a healthy, safe pool.

The experts at Clark Country Pool & Lawn are here to help you tackle any pool issues you might have, including hard water. If you find yourself in need of professional help, call Clark County Pool & Lawn today and let our expertise guide you through dealing with hard pool water