| Problem | Likely Cause | Chemical Fix | |---------|--------------|----------------| | Green water | Low chlorine, algae | Shock (cal-hypo or liquid chlorine), brush, run pump. | | Cloudy water | Poor filtration, high pH, high CH | Check pH/TA, clarifier, filter clean. | | Eye/skin irritation | High CC, low pH, high chloramines | Shock, adjust pH to 7.4–7.6. | | Chlorine odor | Combined chlorine (CC) | Superchlorinate / shock. | | Scaling | High pH, high CH | Lower pH, sequestering agent. | | Low chlorine loss | High CYA | Partial drain/refill. |
This review breaks down the standard charts found in the best cheat sheets, analyzes the critical "action levels," and provides a framework for creating your own maintenance log. cheat sheet pool chemical maintenance charts
Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer): 30 – 50 ppm (protects chlorine from sunlight) The Balancing Act: What to Add and When | Problem | Likely Cause | Chemical Fix
Pre-printed laminated cards are useful, but the "best" cheat sheet is one you develop yourself based on your specific pool volume. | | Chlorine odor | Combined chlorine (CC)
Here’s a concise, at-a-glance — perfect for a laminated poster or quick reference.
| | Ideal Range | Unit | Description | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | pH | 7.2 - 7.8 | pH units | Measures acidity/basicity | | Total Alkalinity (TA) | 80 - 120 | ppm (parts per million) | Helps stabilize pH | | Calcium Hardness (CH) | 200 - 400 | ppm | Prevents equipment damage | | Free Chlorine (FC) | 1 - 3 | ppm | Kills bacteria and viruses | | Combined Chlorine (CC) | 0 - 0.5 | ppm | Measures chloramine levels | | Stabilizer (CYA) | 30 - 50 | ppm | Protects chlorine from sunlight |