7 Common Swimming Pool Myths Busted
When planning a pool installation it's essential to separate fact from fiction regarding swimming pool maintenance and safety. Today, we will debunk seven common swimming pool myths to help you make informed decisions about your new pool.
Myth #1: Wait an Hour After Eating to Swim or You'll Get Cramps.
How often did your mom insist you wait an hour after eating before jumping back into the pool? When digesting food, more blood goes to your stomach, leaving less for your muscles. Overworking those muscles can potentially lead to cramps, but it is not highly likely. To avoid this scenario, consider eating lighter meals and gradually returning to swimming.
Myth #2: Too Much Chlorine in the Pool Because I Can Smell It!
If you can smell chlorine, it indicates too little in the pool. Chlorine binds with bacteria to form chloramines, which, when shocked, release into the air. The smell of chlorine in the air means it has been used and needs replenishment in the water to maintain proper sanitation.
Myth #3: Chlorine Will Turn My Blonde Hair Green!
Chlorine is often blamed for turning blonde hair green, but the real culprit is copper. Some algaecides contain copper, and the oxidized metals can bind to hair proteins. To prevent this, use a shampoo that removes colour or conditions your hair before swimming.
Myth #4: Chlorine Burns Your Eyes if You Open Them Underwater.
It's not chlorine that irritates your eyes, but water with an unbalanced pH level. Maintaining your pool's pH between 7.2 and 7.6 will prevent eye irritation, so keep an eye on your pool's water chemistry.
Myth #5: If You Pee in the Pool, It Will Turn Blue!
The myth that urine turns pool water blue is a widespread scare tactic, mainly used by parents to deter children from peeing in the pool. While it is a humorous legend believed by many, no such dye exists that can solely detect urine without reacting to other substances in the pool.
Myth #6: There's No Chlorine in a Saltwater Pool.
Saltwater pools are not chlorine-free. They produce chlorine through electrolysis, where saltwater passes over a charged metal cell. This process generates chlorine to sanitize the pool. Saltwater pools still require shock treatment to prevent algae and maintain cleanliness.
Myth #7: A Clear Pool is Clean and Healthy
A pool's clarity doesn't necessarily mean it is healthy. Regularly testing your pool's water and maintaining proper water chemistry is crucial to ensure no harmful microorganisms are present, even if the water looks clear. Having been equipped with the truth about these swimming pool myths, you can now confidently plan your pool installation. If you have questions or need professional assistance with your pool, consult the experts at Simply Pools. We ensure your swimming experience is safe, enjoyable, and misconceptions-free.