GLOSSARY
A - B
- C - D - E
- F - G - H
- I - J - K - L
- M
N - O - P
- Q - R - S
- T - U - V
- W - X - Y - Z
ACID A
sour chemical substance containing hydrogen with the ability
to dissolve metals, neutralize alkaline materials and combine
with bases to form salts. Acid is used to lower (decrease)
pH and total alkalinity of swimming pool and spa water. Examples
are muriatic acid (hydrochloric) and dry acid (sodium bisulfate).
ACID DEMAND
The amount of acid required to bring high pH and total alkalinity
down to their proper levels. Determined by the acid demand
test.
ACID DEMAND
TEST A reagent test usually used in conjunction with
a pH test to determine the amount of acid needed to lower
pH and total alkalinity levels.
ACID RAIN
Precipitation having an unusually low pH value (4.5 or lower)
caused by absorption of air polluted by sulfur dioxide, carbon
dioxide and nitrous oxide.
ACRYLIC
A thermoplastic sheet formed into a mold to make a spa or
related equipment. It is first heated and then vacuumed onto
the mold.
AIR BLOWER
A mechanical device that forces air through holes in the floor,
bubbler ring or hydrotherapy jets in a spa.
AIR-RELIEF VALVE
A brass or plastic, manually operated valve located at the
top of a filter tank for relieving the pressure inside the
filter and for removing the air inside the filter (called
bleeding the filter). Sometimes called a pressure-relief valve.
ALGAE
Microscopic plant-like organisms that contain chlorophyll.
Algae are nourished by carbon dioxide (CO2) and use sunlight
to carry out photosynthesis. It is introduced by rain or wind
and grows in colonies producing nuisance masses. Algae are
not disease-causing, but can harbor bacteria, and it is slippery.
There are 21,000 known species of algae. The most common pool
types and black, blue-green, green and mustard (yellow or
drawn). Pink or red-colored algae-like organisms exist but
are bacteria and not algae. Maintaining proper sanitizer levels,
shocking and super chlorination will help prevent its occurrence.
ALGAECIDE
Also called algicide - A natural or synthetic chemical designed
to kill, destroy or control algae.
ALKALI
Also called base - A Class of compounds which will react with
an acid to give a salt. Alkali is the opposite of acid.
ALKALINITY
Also more commonly called total alkalinity. A measure of the
pH-buffering capacity of water. Also called the water's resistance
to change in pH. Composed of the hydroxides, carbonates and
bicarbonates in the water. One of the basic water tests necessary
to determine water balance.
ALUM
Any one of several aluminum compounds used in pools to form
a gelatinous floc on sand filters or to coagulate and precipitate
suspended particles in the water.
AMMONIA
Introduced into the water by swimmers as waste (perspiration
or urine) or by other means. Quickly forms foul-smelling,
body- irritating chloramines - a disabled, less- effective
form of chlorine. See chloramines or combined chlorine.
ANTI-FOAM
A chemical added to the water to make the suds or foam go
away. These products do not remove the source of the sudsing.
Most often, the water must be drained and refilled to remove
the soaps, oils and other causes of foaming. Shocking and
super chlorination may help prevent foaming.
ASCORBIC ACID
A chemical compound used to remove iron stains from fiberglass
and vinyl-liner pools.
AUTOMATIC POOL
CLNR A pool maintenance system that will agitate or
vacuum debris from the pool interior automatically.
AVAILABLE CHLORINE
CONTENT A term used or an index used to compare the
oxidizing power of chorine-containing products to gas chlorine.
It permits easy comparison of chlorine compounds.
AVAILABLE CHLORINE
The amount of chlorine, both free and combined in the pool
water that is available to sanitize or disinfect the water.
Sometimes called residual chlorine.
BACKFLOW
The backing up of water through a pipe in the direction opposite
to normal flow.
BACKWASH
The process of thoroughly cleaning the filter by reversing
the flow of water through it with the dirt and rinse water
going to waste.
BACTERIA
Single-celled microorganisms of various forms, some of which
are undesirable or potentially disease-causing. Bacteria are
controlled by chlorine, bromine or other sanitizing and disinfecting
agents.
BACTERICIDE
A chemical or element that kills, destroys, or controls bacteria.
BAKING SODA
Chemically called sodium bicarbonate. It is white powder used
to raise the total alkalinity of pool or spa water without
having much effect on pH.
BALANCED WATER
The correct ratio of mineral content and pH level that prevents
the water from being corrosive or scale forming.
BALL VALVE
A simple non-return valve consisting of a ball resting on
a cylindrical seat within a liquid passageway.
BASE
Also called basic - A class of compounds which will react
with an acid to give a salt. Base is the opposite of an acid.
See alkali.
BLEACH
This term usually refers to liquid chlorine (sodium hypochlorite
12% available chlorine). It is the same chemical used in laundry
bleach but pool chlorine is 12% available chlorine while laundry
bleach is about 5 to 6%% available chlorine.
BLOWER
An electrical device that produces a continuous rush of air
to create the optimal bubbling effect in a spa, hot tub or
whirl- pool. It is usually plumbed in with the hydrotherapy
jets or to a separate bubbler ring.
BLUE FINGERNAILS
A condition caused by too much copper in the pool water. Blue
fingernails are not caused by chlorine. The copper may get
into the water by the bad practice of placing trichlor tabs
in the skimmer. This acidic product will cause low-pH water,
which will in turn dissolve metals in the equipment. The dissolved
metal (usually copper) then stains hair, fingernails and,
eventually, pool walls. It can also be caused by keeping the
pH too low or misusing acid.
BREAKPOINT CHLORINATION
The process of adding sufficient free available chlorine to
completely oxidize all organic matter and ammonia or nitrogen
compounds. All chlorine added after that point is free available
chlorine.
BROMAMINES
By-products formed when bromine reacts with swimmer waste
(perspiration or urine), nitrogen or fertilizer. Bromamines
are active disinfectants and do not smell, although high levels
are body irritants. Bromamines are removed by super chlorination
or shock treating.
BROMIDE
A common term for a bromide salt used to supply bromide ions
to the water so they may be oxidized or changed into hypobromous
acid, the killing form of bromine. Used as a disinfectant.
BROMINATOR
A mechanical or electrical device for dispensing bromine at
a controlled rate. Most often a canister or floater filled
with tablets of bromine.
BROMINE
A common name for a chemical compound containing bromine that
is used as a disinfectant to destroy bacteria and algae in
swimming pools and spas. Available as a tablet or as sodium
bromide, a granular salt.
BTU
Abbreviation for British Thermal Unit. The amount of heat
necessary to raise 1 lb. of water 1 degree Fahrenheit.
BUFFER
A substance or compound that stabilizes the pH value of a
solution. It is also the water's resistance to change in pH.
BYPASS
An arrangement of pipes, gates and valves by which the flow
of water may be passed around a piece of equipment or diverted
to another piece of equipment; a controlled diversion.
CALCIUM
HYPOCHLORITE A compound of chlorine and calcium used
as a disinfectant, sanitizer, bactericide, algaecide and oxidizer
in swimming pool and spa water. It is available as a white
granular material usually used for super chlorination or it
is available as tablets used in a feeder for regular chlorination.
It usually contains 65% available chlorine.
CALCIUM CARBONATE
Crystalline compounds formed in swimming pool and spa water
when the calcium, pH and total alkalinity levels are too high.
Once formed, the crystals adhere to the plumbing, equipment,
pool walls and bottom. These crystals are better known as
scale.
CALCIUM CHLORIDE
A soluble white salt used to raise the calcium or total hardness
level in the pool or spa.
CALCIUM HARDNESS
The calcium content of the water. Calcium hardness is sometimes
confused with the terms water hardness and total hardness.
Too little calcium hardness and the water is corrosive. Too
much calcium hardness and the water is scale forming. One
of the basic water tests necessary to determine water balance.
Minimum level is 150 ppm. Ideal range is 200 to 400 ppm.
CARTRIDGE
A replaceable porous element made of paper or polyester used
as the filter medium in cartridge filters.
CARTRIDGE FILTER
A pool or spa water filter that uses a replaceable porous
element made of paper or polyester.
CENTRIFUGAL
PUMP A pump consisting of an impeller fixed on a rotating
shaft and enclosed in a casing or volute and having an inlet
and a discharge connection. The rotating impeller creates
pressure in the water by the velocity derived from the centrifugal
force.
CHECK VALVE
A mechanical device in a pipe that permits the flow of water
or air in one direction only.
CHELATE
(Pronounced KEY-late) - also called sequester - It is the
process of preventing metals in the water from combining with
other components in water to form colored precipitates that
stain the pool walls and bottom or produce colored water.
CHELATED COPPER
Copper algaecides that contain a special ingredient to prevent
the copper from staining the pool walls and bottom or producing
colored water.
CHEMICAL FEEDER
Any of several types of devices that dispense chemicals into
the pool or spa water at a predetermined rate. Some dispense
chlorine or bromine while others dispense pH-adjusting chemicals.
CHLORINE NEUTRALIZER
A chemical used to make chlorine harmless. Used in test kits
to counteract the bleach- ing effect of the chlorine or bromine
in order to increase the accuracy of pool water tests. Sold
as chlorine and bromine neutralizer, it is used to destroy
excessive amounts of chlorine or bromine, so the high levels
will not affect swimmers.
CHLORAMINES
Undesirable, foul-smelling, body-irritating compounds formed
when insufficient levels of free available chlorine react
with ammonia and other nitrogen-containing compounds (swimmer
and bather waste, fertilizer, perspiration, urine, etc.).
Chloramines are still disinfectants, but they are a much weaker,
ineffective form of chlorine. Chloramines are removed by super
chlorination or shock treating.
CHLORINATOR
A mechanical or electrical device for dispensing chlorine
at a controlled rate. Most often a canister or floater filled
with tablets of chlorine.
CHLORINE
A term used to describe any type of chlorine compound used
as a disinfectant in swimming pool and spa water or to kill,
destroy or control bacteria and algae. In addition, chlorine
oxidizes ammonia and nitrogen compounds (swimmer and bather
waste).
CHLORINE DEMAND
The amount of chlorine necessary to oxidize all organic matter
(bacteria, algae, chloramines, ammonia and nitrogen compounds)
in the pool or spa water.
CHLORINE ENHANCER
A chemical compound that when used in conjunction with chlorine
makes the chlorine perform better as an algaecide.
CHLORINE GENERATOR
An electrical device that generates chlorine from a salt solution
in a tank or from salt added to the pool water.
CHLORINE LOCK
This is a term that implies that an over- abundance of cyanuric
acid (stabilizer or conditioner) in the water would cause the
chlorine to be all "locked up." This is not true.
CHLORINE RESIDUAL
The amount of chlorine left in the pool or spa water after
the chlorine demand has been satisfied.
CLARIFIER
Also called coagulant or flocculant - A chemical compound
used to gather (coagulate or agglomerate), or to precipitate
suspend- ed particles so they may be removed by vacuuming
or filtration. There are two types; inorganic salts of aluminum
(alum) or water- soluble organic polyelectrolytes.
CLARITY
The degree of transparency of the water.
COAGULANT
An organic polyelectrolyte used to gather (coagulate) suspended
particles in the water.
COMBINED CHLORINE
Undesirable, foul-smelling, body-irritating compounds formed
when insufficient levels of free available chlorine react
with ammonia and other nitrogen-containing compounds (swimmer
and bather waste, fertilizer, perspiration, urine, etc.).
Combined chlorine is still a disinfectant, but it is a much
weaker, ineffective form of chlorine.
CONDITIONER
Chemically, conditioner is cyanuric acid. It slows down the
degradation of chlorine in the water by sunlight. Minimum
level is 10 ppm. Too much does not slow down chlorine activity
or effectiveness. Conditioner does not protect bromine from
sunlight.
COPING
The cap or top lip on the pool or spa wall that provides a
finished edge around the pool or spa. It can be formed, cast
in place or precast, or prefabricated of extruded aluminum
or rigid vinyl. It may also be part of the system that secures
a vinyl liner to the top of the pool wall.
COPPER
It is one of nature's elements. It is also used for various
parts of equipment and plumbing in swimming pools and spas.
Corrosive water caused by misuse of chemicals, improper water
balance, or placing trichlor tablets in the skimmer can cause
copper to be dissolved from the equipment or plumbing and
deposit the precipitates on hair, finger- nails or pool walls.
High levels of copper also cause green water. Copper is also
used as an algaecide. Maximum level is about 0.2 ppm.
COPPER ALGAECIDE
A chemical compound that contains the element copper. Copper
sulfate was one of the original copper algaecides. Too much
copper in the water can cause green-colored stains. Newer
copper algaecides contain an ingredient that prevents the
copper from staining but does not affect copper's ability
to kill algae. These special copper algaecides are called
chelated copper algaecides.
CORROSION
The etching, pitting or eating away of the pool or spa or
equipment. Caused by improper water balance, misuse of acid
or acidic products or from soft water.
COUPLING
A plumbing fitting that is used to connect two pieces of pipe.
COVER, HARD-TOP
A cover used on pools, spas and hot tubs that rests on the
lip (coping) of the pool or spa deck - not a flotation cover.
Used as a barrier to swimmers and bathers, and for maintenance
and thermal protection.
COVER, SOLAR
A cover that, when placed on the water's surface of a pool,
spa or hot tub, increases the water temperature by absorption
and transmission of solar radiation; reduces evaporation and
prevents wine-borne debris from entering the water.
COVER, WINTER
A cover that is secured around the perimeter of a pool, spa
or hot tub that provides a barrier to bathers and debris when
the pool, spa or hot tub is closed for the season.
CYANURIC ACID
Also called condition and stabilizer - Chemically, conditioner
is cyanuric acid. It protects chlorine in the water from being
destroyed by sunlight. Minimum level is 10 ppm. Too much does
not slow down chlorine activity or effectiveness. Does not
protect bromine from sunlight.
D.
E. FILTER Diatomaceous Earth Filter - A filter designed
to use diatomaceous earth (D.E.) as the filter medium. The
D.E. is added through the skimmer with the pump on, which
takes the D.E. and deposits it on a grid. The D.E. then becomes
the filter medium.
DECKS
Those areas immediately adjacent to a pool, spa or hot tub
that are specifically constructed or installed for use by
bathers for sitting, standing or walking.
DEFOAMER
Also called anti-foam - A chemical added to the water to make
the suds or foam go away. These products do not remove the
source of the sudsing. Most often, the water must be drained
and refilled to remove the soaps, oils and other causes of
foaming. Shocking and super chlorination may help prevent
foaming.
DIATOMACEOUS
EARTH Also called D.E. - A white powder composed of
fossilized skeletons of one-celled organisms called diatoms.
The skeletons are porous and have microscopic spaces. The
powder is added through the skimmer with the pump on and deposits
itself on a grid. The powder then becomes the filter medium.
DICHLOR
The common name for sodium dichlor. A fast-dissolving chlorine
compound containing chlorine and cyanuric acid (stabilizer
or conditioner). It has a neutral pH and is quick-dissolving,
so it can be used for regular chlorination or super chlorination.
DIFFUSER
A porous plate, tube or other device through which air is
forced and divided into minute bubbles for diffusion in the
water. A diffuser can also be an over drain on a sand filter.
A diffuser is also used on a closed- face impeller on a pump
to concentrate water flow to the center of the impeller.
DISINFECT
To kill al pathogenic (disease-causing) organisms.
DISSOLVED SOLIDS
Also called TDS or total dissolved solids - A measure of the
total amount of dissolved matter in water. Examples are calcium,
magnesium, carbonates, bicarbonates, sodium, chlorides and
metals. High levels can cause corrosion, colored water or
salty taste. Maximum level is usually 2500 ppm for pools.
Maximum level for spas is 1500 ppm over starting level.
DIVERTER VALVE
A plumbing fitting used to change the direction or redirect
the flow of water. Some diverter valves are used on pool/spa
combinations to allow the use of the spa and then switch the
flow back to the pool. A brand name diverter valve is called
an Ortega valve, which is sometimes used to describe a diverter
valve.
DIVING BOARD
A recreational mechanism for entering a swimming pool, consisting
of a semi-rigid board that derives its spring from a fulcrum
mounted below the board and attached to the deck.
DPD
An indicator reagent used for the determination of free and
total chlorine, bromine, ozone and other oxidizers in water.
Better than using OTO for chlorine because it measures free
chlorine.
DRAIN
This term usually refers to a plumbing fitting installed on
the suction side of the pump in pools, spas and hot tubs.
Sometimes called the main drain, it is located in the deepest
part of the pool, spa or hot tub. It is not a drain, such
as a drain on a kitchen sink. Main drains do not allow to
drain to waste but rather connect to the pump for circulation
and filtration.
DRY ACID
Chemically, sodium bisulfate. A dry white crystal that produces
acid when added to water. It is used for lowering pH and total
alkalinity. Safer to handle than muriatic acid.
EFFLUENT
The water that flows out of a pump, filter or heater, usually
on its way back to the pool or spa.
ELBOW
A plumbing fitting shaped at a 90 degree or a 45 degree angle
usually made of metal, PVC or some other plastic.
ELECTROLYSIS
An electrochemical reaction causing a black stain normally
found around metal fixtures or on the plaster. It is caused
by two dissimilar metals being plumbed together or from an
improper electrical grounding of pool equipment or lights.
Electrolysis also means the decomposition of water and other
inorganic compounds in aqueous solution by means of electricity.
Chlorine generators use this principle to produce chlorine
from salt in the water.
EPA
Abbreviation for the federal Environmental Protection Agency.
ESCUTCHEON PLATE
An ornamental shield, flange or border used around a pie,
plumbing fitting, grab rail or light.
FIBERGLASS
Finespun filaments of glass which are available in a rope
or mat form. When used in a process with polyester resins,
catalysts and hardeners, can be formed or molded into pools,
spas and related shapes.
FILTER
A device that removes undissolved or suspended particles from
water by recirculating the water through a porous substance
(a filter medium or element). The three types of filters used
in pools and spas are sand, cartridge and D.E. (diatomaceous
earth).
FILTER AID
A chemical compound added to the water or to the filter that
allows the existing filter to become more efficient. Examples
are alum, water clarifiers and D.E. (diatomaceous earth).
FILTER AREA
The total surface area of the filter medium that is exposed
to the flow of water from the pump, expressed in square feet.
Examples are: a 36 sq.ft. (also 36 ft2) D.E. filter and a
100 sq.ft. (slao 100 ft2) cartridge filter.
FILTER CARTRIDGE
A replaceable porous element made of paper or polyester used
as the filter medium in cartridge filters.
FILTER CYCLE
The operating time between cleaning or backwashing cycles
of a filter. Also the amount of time the filter has water
flowing through it each day expressed in hours.
FILTER ELEMENT
A device within a filter tank designed to trap suspended solids
as water flows through it from the pool or spa.
FILTER MEDIUM
The material used in the filter to trap suspended dirt particles
as the water is flowing through it. The polyester or paper
used in making a cartridge filter element. The sand used in
a sand filter. The D.E. (diatomaceous earth) used in a D.E.
filter.
FILTER POWDER
A common name for diatomaceous earth (D.E.), used as the filter
medium in a diatomaceous earth filter.
FILTER ROCK
Graded, rounded rock and/or gravel used to support the filter
medium. Usually used with rapid-rate sand filters.
FILTER SEPTUM
That portion of tjhe filter element consisting of cloth, wire
screen or other porous material on which the filter medium
or filter aid is deposited. The nylon grid on a D.E. filter
is the septum.
FILTER, SAND
A type of filter media composed of hard, sharp silica, quartz
or similar particles with proper grading for size and uniformity.
The most common grade used is No. 20 in sand filters.
FILTRATION RATE
The rate at which the water is traveling through the filter,
expressed in U.S. gallons per minute (gpm) per square foot
of filter area.
FIREMAN'S SWITCH
A mechanical switch located inside the time clock, which opens
a circuit and shuts off the heater 10 or 15 minutes prior
to shutting off the water circulation pump, allowing the heater
to cool down. This helps reduce lime buildup in the heat exchanger.
FLOC
(See flocculation) - The clump or tuft formed when suspended
particles combine with a flocculating agent.
FLOCCULATING
AGENT Also flocculant - A chemical substance or compound
that promotes the combination, agglomeration, aggregation
or coagulation of suspended particles in the water.
FLOCCULATION
The combination, agglomeration, aggregation or coagulation
of suspended particles in such a way that they form small
clumps or tufts (called floc).
FLOW RATE
The quantity of water flowing past a designated point within
a specified time, such as the number of gallons flowing past
a point in 1 minute - abbreviated as gpm.
FOAM
A froth of bubbles on the surface of the water. Usually comes
from soap, oil, deodorant, hair spray, suntan oil, etc., that
is shed into the water as swimmers enter.
FREE AVAILABLE
CHLORINE The amount of free chlorine in the pool or
spa water that is available to sanitize or disinfect the water.
Sometimes called residual or available chlorine.
GELCOAT
A colored, polyester-resin material applied to the surface
of a molded part. The gelcoat hardens to a smooth, durable
form and becomes an integral part of the laminate. Fiberglass
pools and spas have gelcoat finishes.
GPD
An abbreviation for gallons per day.
GPH
An abbreviation for gallons per hour.
GPM
An abbreviation for gallons per minute.
GRAB RAIL
Also called hand rail - A tubular steel or plastic device
that can be gripped by swimmers or bathers for the purpose
of steadying themselves. Usually located near the steps in
the pool.
GREEN HAIR
A condition caused by too much copper in the pool water. Green
hair is not caused by chlorine. The copper may get into the
water by the bad practice of placing trichlor tabs in the
skimmer. This acidic product will cause low-pH water, which
in turn will dis- solve metals in the equipment. The dissolved
metal (usually copper) then stains hair, fingernails and,
eventually, pool walls. It can also be caused by keeping the
pH too low or misusing acid.
GROUND FAULT
CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER Also called a GFCI - A device
intended to protect people. It interrupts (de-energizes) the
electrical circuit whenever it detects the presence of excess
electrical current going to ground (usually 1/40th of a second
and 5/1000th of an ampere).
GUNITE
A mixture of cement and sand sprayed onto contoured and supported
surfaces to build a pool. Gunite is mixed and pumped to the
site dry, and water is added at the point of application.
Plaster is usually applied over the gunite.
GUTTER
An overflow trough at the edge of the pool through which floating
debris, oil and other "lighter-than-water" things flow. Pools
with gutters usually do not have skimmers.
HALOGENS
The chemical elements either individually or collectively
that constitute Group VIIB of the Periodic Table of Elements:
fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine and astatine. Of these,
only chlorine and bromine are used as disinfectants and sanitizers
in pools and spas.
HAND RAIL
A tubular steel or plastic device that can be gripped by swimmers
or bathers for the purpose of steadying themselves. Usually
located near the steps in the pool.
HAND SKIMMER
A screen attached to a frame which is then attached to a telepole
used to remove large floating debris, such as leaves and bugs,
from the water's surface.
HARDNESS
The amount of calcium and magnesium dissolved in the water.
"Water" or "total" hardness refers to the total magnesium
and calcium dissolved in the water. Calcium hardness refers
to just the calcium. Measured by a test kit and expressed
as ppm. The proper range is 200 to 400 ppm.
HEAT EXCHANGER
A device located inside the heater providing for the transfer
of heat from the heat source to the water. This is usually
a series of metallic tubes with fins located just above the
flames.
HEATER
A fossil-fueled, electric or solar device used to heat the
water of a pool, spa or hot tub.
HERBICIDE
A chemical compound used to kill or control plant growth or
algae. Simazine is a common pool herbicide.
HORSEPOWER
The work done per unit of time. 1 horsepower equals 33,000
foot-pounds of work per minute or approximately 746 watts.
Motors for pumps are rated in horsepower.
HOT TUB
A spa constructed of wood with the sides and bottom formed
separately and joined together by hoops, bands or rods.
HYDROCHLORIC
ACID Also called muriatic acid - A very strong acid
used in pools to lower the pH and total alkalinity. It can
also be used for various cleaning needs. Used in "acid washing"
a pool. Use extreme care in handling.
HYDROGEN
The lightest chemical element. A component of water, and a
frequent product of many chemical reactions. pH is a measure
of hydrogen in its ionic form in water.
HYDROGEN ION
The positively charged nucleus of hydrogen atom. The relative
degree of acid or base of a solution (called pH) is a measure
of hydrogen ions.
HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
An unstable, colorless, heavy liquid used as a bleach in industry
and as an antiseptic in households. It is used as an oxidizing
agent in pools and spas. May also be used to de- chlorinate
pool or spa water.
HYDROJET
A fitting in the pool or spa on the water return line from
the equipment that blends or mixes air and water, creating
a high- velocity, turbulent stream of air-enriched water.
HYPOBROMOUS
ACID The most powerful disinfecting form of bromine
in water. Sometimes called the killing form of bromine.
HYPOCHLORITE
The name given to a family of chlorine- containing compounds,
including calcium hypochlorite, sodium hypochlorite and lithium
hypochlorite, that are used as disinfectants and sanitizers
in pool and spa water.
HYPOCHLOROUS
ACID The most powerful disinfecting form of chlorine
in water. Sometimes called the killing form of chlorine.
IMPELLER
The rotating member of a pump. The part of the pump that moves
the water.
INFLUENT
The water entering the pump, the filter or other equipment
of space. Water going into the pump is called in influent,
while water leaving the pump is called the effluent.
INLET
A fitting in the pool or spa on the water return line from
the equipment that water returns to the pool. Usually the
last thing on the return line.
IONIZER
A water-sanitation device that uses electricity to generate
metal ions, which are dispersed in the water. It works by
passing a low-voltage DC current through a set of metallic
(usually copper and silver) electrodes placed in line with
the circulation equipment. The copper is an algaecide, while
the silver is a bactericide. Does not remove swimmer waste.
IRON
Iron in water causes the water to be brown- or green-colored.
Can be controlled by the addition of a sequestering agent
or a chelating agent. Water can be tested with an iron test
kit.
ISOCYANURATES
Also called stabilized chlorine - A family of chlorine pool
sanitizers that contain conditioner (cyanuric acid or isocyanuris
acid) to protect the chlorine from the de- grading UV rays
in sunlight. The most com- mon types are sodium dichlor and
trichlor. The granular form is dichlor, which is fast- dissolving
and can be used for regular chlorination or super chlorination
by broad- casing into the pool or spa. Tablet or stick form
is trichlot (which is usually used in a chlorine feeder -
either the floating type or the in-line erosion type) used
for regular chlorination only.
JACUZZI®
A brand name and registered trademark for a specific line
of spas and whirlpools.
LADDER
A structure for climbing up or down; consists of two parallel
sides joined by a series of crosspieces that serve as footrests.
It is used for getting in and out of the pool. A double-access
ladder straddles the pool wall of an above-ground pool. An
in-pool ladder is located in the pool only.
LEAF BAGGER
A device that attaches to a telepole and a garden hose. Pressure
from the garden hose creates a suction by which leaves and
large debris are sucked into a large mesh bag.
LIGHT NICHE
The area in a pool or spa that houses the underwater light.
LINER
Also called vinyl line - The vinyl membrane that acts as the
container to hold or contain the water.
LIQUID ACID
(31.45% hydrochloric acid) - also called muriatic acid - It
is used for lowering pH, total alkalinity and for various
cleaning needs. It is also used for acid washing.
LIQUID CHLORINE
A sodium hypochlorite solution. Usually provides 10 to 12%
available chlorine; has a pH of 13 and requires that small
amounts of acid be added to the pool to neutralize the high
pH. Good for regular chlorination and super chlorination.
LITHIUM HYPOCHLORITE
A dry, granular chlorinating compound with an available chlorine
content of 35%. It is rapid-dissolving and can be used to
super chlorinate vinyl-liner pools, painted pools or fiberglass
pools as well as spas and hot tubs.
MAGNESIUM
HARDNESS A measure of the amount of magnesium dis-
solved in the water. It is part of total or water hardness.
It also causes scale if levels are too high.
MAIN DRAIN
This term usually refers to a plumbing fit- ting installed
on the suction side of the pump in pools, spas and hot tubs.
Sometimes called the drain and is located in the deepest part
of the pool, spa or hot tub. It is not a drain, such as a
drain on a kitchen sink. Main drains do not allow the water
to drain to waste but rather connect to the pump for circulation
and filtration.
MAKE-UP WATER
This is sometimes called "tap" or "refill" water. It is the
water used to replace water lost to evaporation, splash-out,
leaks or swimmer drag-out in the pool.
MANIFOLD
The branch pipe arrangement that connects several input pipes
into one chamber or one chamber into several output pipes.
A filter manifold connects several input pipes from the filter
septa back into one common pipe.
MARCITE
Originally a brand name for a white plaster finish coat from
1/8th to 1/2 inch thick applied over the gunite or shotcrete.
MICRON
A unit of length equal to 1 millionth of a meter - it is .000394
of an inch. Microns are used to describe the pore size of
filter media. Sand filters have openings of 25 to 30 microns;
cartridge filters have openings of 8 to 10 microns; and D.E.
(diatomaceous earth) filters have openings of 1 to 5 microns.
Humans, without magnification, can see objects 35 microns
or larger. A granule of table salt is between 90 to 110 microns.
MINERAL
Any substance that is neither animal or vegetable. It is any
class of substances occurring in nature, usually comprising
of inorganic substances, such as quartz or feldspar, of definite
chemical composition and definite crystal structure. It sometimes
includes rocks formed by these substances. Ground water dissolves
these rock substances, and the dissolved minerals are present
in tap water. Depending on the kinds of rocks the water comes
in contact with, the minerals dissolved in the water may be
just a few or they may be many. Water hardness is mostly comprised
of these minerals.
MULTIPORT VALVE
Also called a rotary-type backwash valve - This valve replaces
as many as 6 regular gate valves. Water from the pump can
be diverted for various functions by merely turning the valve
handle. The water may be sent to waste, used for backwashing,
bypassing the filter for maximum circulation, for normal filtration,
filtering to waste (rinse), or the valve may be closed to
not pass water. The pump must be off before changing a valve
setting.
MURIATIC ACID
(31.45% hydrochloric acid) - Also called liquid acid - An
acid used to reduce the pH and alkalinity levels in pool water.
It is also used in acid washing, a process that removes stains
and scale from pool plaster.
NEUTRALIZER
A chemical used to make chlorine or bromine harmless. Used
in test kits to counteract the bleaching effect of the chlorine
or bromine in order to increase the accuracy of pool water
tests. Sold as chlorine and bromine neutralizer, it is used
to destroy excessive amounts of chlorine or bromine, so the
high levels will not affect swimmers.
NITROGEN
A gas that causes algae to bloom and disables chlorine. It
is brought into the water each time it rains. Maintaining
proper chlorine levels will prevent nitrogen from becoming
a problem. Super chlorination will remove nitrogen and its
related compounds.
NON-CHLORINE
SHOCK A term given to a class of chemical compounds
that are used to oxidize or shock the water (destroy ammonia,
nitrogen and swimmer waste). They contain no chlorine or bromine
and do not kill living organisms. Swimmers may re-enter the
water in only 15 minutes after adding a non-chlorine shock.
NORYL
The brand name for a thermoplastic resin used in the manufacture
of certain pump components and various other pool equipment
fittings.
ORGANIC
Refers to volatile, combustible and sometimes biodegradable
chemical compounds containing carbon atoms bonded together
with other elements. The principal groups of organic substances
found in water are proteins, carbohydrates, fats and oils.
See organic waste.
ORGANIC WASTE
Also called swimmer or bather waste - All of the soap, deodorant,
suntan lotion, lipstick, makeup, cologne, body oils, sweat,
spit, urine, etc., brought into the water. They also form
chloramines, which are foul-smelling and body irritants. Requires
large amounts of chlorine or non-chlorine shock to destroy.
ORP
An abbreviation for exidation reduction reduction potential.
It is a measurement of a body of water's ability to exidize
contaminants. Measured with an electrode and an electronic
meter. It is an indication of the sanitizing level or degree
of safety from disease in the water. Measured in millivolts
with the accepted minimum level being 650 mV (millivolt).
OTO
Abbreviation for orthotolidine. A chemical reagent used to
test the total chlorine level in pool and spa water. It does
not measure free available chlorine. See DPD.
OVER-ACID
An incorrect term used to describe water that is acidic or
water that has a pH lower than 7.2.
OVERDRAIN
Also called a diffuser or distributor - An internal sand filter
device that evenly distributes influent pool water over the
sand filter bed.
OXIDATION
To rid the water of ammonia, nitrogen com- pounds and swimmer
waste (organic compounds). These organic compounds disable
chlorine, are body irritants and have a foul smell. Removal
is accomplished by superchlorination or by shock treating
with a non-chlorine oxidizer.
OXIDIZER
A non-chlorine shocking compound that removes or destroys
built-up contaminants and chloramines in pool water without
raining chlorine levels as required when "super chlorinating."
OZONATOR
A gaseous molecule comprised of 3 atoms of exygen. It is generated
on site from air or exygen and used for exidation of water
contaminants.
PATHOGENIC
ORGANISM An organism that causes disease.
PETCOCK
A small, manually-operated faucet or valve for draining off
liquids or releasing air pressure. The air-relief valve on
a filter is an example.
pH A
term used to indicate the level of acidity or alkalinity of
pool water. Too low of pH causes etched plaster, metal corrosion
and eye irritation. Too high of pH causes scale formation,
poor chlorine efficiency and eye irritation. The ideal range
for pH in swimming pools is 7.4 to 7.6.
PHENOL RED
A chemical reagent dye used to test for pH. It can measure
pH from 6.8 to 8.4.
PLASTER
A mixture of white cement and white marble dust used as an
interior finish, which can be tinted, colored or left white;
applied to the gunite or shotcrete of a pool or spa.
POLYMER
A substance made of giant molecules formed by the union of
simpler molecules. Many water clarifiers are made from organic
polymers. An example would be polymerized ethylene, called
polyethylene.
POTASSIUM PEROXYMON
Potassium Peroxymonosulfate - The active ingredient and chemical
name of a non- chlorine shock treatment or non-chlorine oxidizer.
Does not kill bacteria or algae but it will oxidize or destroy
ammonia, nitrogen and swimmer waste. It has a low pH, and
it does not increase chlorine or bromine levels the way that
super chlorination does, so water may be entered in 15 minutes
after addition. It will also reactivate bromine to its killing
form, hypobromous acid.
ppm
An abbreviation for parts per million. It is a weight-to-weight
expression. It means 1 part in 1 million parts, such as 1
lb. of chlorine in 1 million lbs. of water. Many of the common
pool water tests, as well as acceptable ranges, are stated
as ppm. For example, free available chlorine should be kept
between 1.0 and 3.0 ppm; total alkalinity should be between
80 and 120 ppm; and and water hardness should be between 200
and 400 ppm.
PRECIPITATE
A substance separating, in solid particles, from a liquid
as a result of a chemical or physical change. It also means
to form a precipitate.
PRECOAT
Depositing diatomaceous earth (D.E.) onto the filter grids
or elements.
PRESSURE GAUGE
A gauge with an analog dial indicating the pounds per square
inch (psi) of pressure that has built up within a closed container,
such as a filter.
psi
An abbreviation for pounds per square inch.
PUMP
A mechanical device, usually powered by an electric motor,
which causes hydraulic flow and pressure for the purpose of
filtration, heating and circulation of pool and spa water.
Typical, a centrifugal pump is used for pools, spas and hot
tubs.
PUMP CAPACITY
The volume of liquid a pump is capable of moving during a
specified period of time. This is usually gallons per minute
(gpm).
PUMP CURVE
Also called a pump performance curve - A graph that represents
a pump's water flow capacity at any given resistance.
PUMP STRAINER
BASKET A device placed on the suction side of the
pump, which contains a removable strainer basket designed
to trap debris in the water flow without causing much flow
restriction. Sometimes called a "hair-and-lint trap".
QUATS
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds - Also called Quats - The chemical
compounds of ammonia used as algaecides and algaestats.
RATE
OF FLOW The quantity of water flowing past a designated
point within a specified time, such as the number of gallons
flowing past a point in 1 minute - abbreviated as gpm.
REAGENTS
The chemical agents, dyes, indicators or titrants used in
testing various aspects of water quality.
RESIDUAL BROMINE
The amount of measurable bromine remaining after treating
the water with bromine. The amount of bromine left in the
pool or spa water after the bromine demand has been satisfied.
RESIDUAL CHLORINE
The amount of measurable chlorine remaining after treating
the water with chlorine. The amount of chlorine left in the
pool or spa water after the chlorine demand has been satisfied.
SODIUM
SESQUICARBONATE A chemical mixture of equal parts
of soda ash and sodium bicarbonate used to increase pH and
total alkalinity in pool and spa water. It has a pH of 10.1.
SAND
This usually refers to the filter medium used by a sand filter.
The grade most often specified by filter manufacturers is
grade No. 20 with a particle size of 45 to 55 mm (millimeters).
SAND FILTER
A filter using sand or sand and gravel as the filter medium.
SANITIZE
To render sanitary: to kill all living things, including bacteria
and algae. Similar to sterilize.
SCALE
The precipitate that forms on surfaces in contact with water
when the calcium hardness, pH or total alkalinity levels are
too high. Results from chemically unbalanced pool and spa
water. Scale may appear as grey, white or dark streaks on
the plaster, fiberglass or vinyl. It may also appear as a
hard crust around the tile.
SCUM
The extraneous or foreign matter which rises to the surface
of the water and forms a layer or a film there. It can also
be a residue deposited on the tile or walls of the pool or
spa. Sources of scum are soap, oil, deodorant, hair spray,
suntan lotions and others.
SEDIMENT
The solid material settled out from the water.
SEPTUM
That portion of the filter element consisting of cloth, wire
screen or other porous material on which the filter medium
or filter aid is deposited. The nylon grid on a D.E. filter
is the septum.
SEQUESTERING
AGENT Also called chelating agent - A chemical that
will combine with dissolved metals in the water to prevent
the metals from coming out of solution (precipitating or causing
stains). May also be a chemical that removes dissolved metals
from water.
SHOCK TREAT
The practice of adding significant amounts of an oxidizing
chemical - (usually non- chlorine oxidizers, such as sodium
persulfate or potassium peroxymonosulfate) - to water to destroy
ammonia and nitrogen compounds or swimmer waste.
SHOTCRETE
A mixture of sand and cement sprayed onto contoured and supported
surfaces to build a pool or spa. Plaster is applied over the
shotcrete. Shotcrete is premixed and pumped wet to the construction
site.
SILT
Soil particles having diameters between 0.004 and 0.062 mm
(millimeters). Sometimes they may be too small to be trapped
by the circulation system. In those cases, a clarifier or
an alum product may be needed.
SIMAZINE
A chemical substance used in swimming pools and spas as an
herbicide or algaecide. Mainly used for killing black algae.
SKIMMER
A device installed through the wall of a pool or spa that
is connected to the suction line of the pump that draws water
and floating debris in the water flow from the surface without
causing much flow restriction.
SKIMMER BASKET
A removable, slotted basket or strainer placed in the skimmer
on the suction side of the pump, which is designed to trap
floating debris in the water flow from the surface without
causing much flow restriction.
SKIMMER WEIR
Part of a skimmer that adjusts automatically to small changes
in water level to assure a continuous flow of water to the
skimmer. The small floating "door" on the side of the skimmer
that faces the water over which water flows on its way to
the skimmer. The weir also prevents debris from floating back
into the pool when the pump shuts off.
SLURRY
Water or a liquid containing a high concentration of suspended
solids. Diatomaceous earth (D.E.) is usually added to the
filter as a slurry by mixing a small amount of D.E. in a bucket
of water and then pouring the slurry into the skimmer with
the filter on.
SODA ASH
(Sodium Carbonate) - A chemical used to raise total alkalinity
in pool and spa water with only a slight affect on the pH.
SODIUM BICARBONATE
(Baking Soda or Bicarb) - A chemical used to raise total alkalinity
in pool and spa water with only a slight affect on the pH.
SODIUM BISULFATE
(dry acid) - A chemical used to lower the pH and total alkalinity.
2 1/2 lbs. of dry acid are equal to 1 quart of muriatic acid.
SODIUM BROMIDE
A salt of bromine. It is used to establish a bromide "bank"
in pool and spa water prior to beginning the use of bromine
tablets.
SODIUM CARBONATE
(soda ash) - A chemical used to raise the pH and total alkalinity
in pool and spa water.
SODIUM DICKLOR
A fast-dissolving, granular, stabilized organic chlorine compound
providing either 56% or 63% available chlorine. Used for regular
as well as superchlorination. Contains an ingredient (cyanuric
acid or stabilizer) that prevents the chlorine from being
destroyed by the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. Recommended
for use in vinyl-liner, painted or fiberglass pools and acrylic
or fiberglass spas.
SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE
Liquid chlorine. Usually provides 10% to 12% available chlorine;
has a pH of 13 and re- quires that small amounts of acid be
added to the pool to neutralize the high pH. Good for regular
chlorination and super chlorination. Not recommended for spas.
Does not contain conditioner or stabilizer to protect it from
sunlight, but it is protected if stabilizer or conditioner
is already in the water.
SODIUM PERSULFATE
Active ingredient and chemical name of a non-chlorine shock
treatment or non-chlorine oxidizer. Does not kill bacteria
or algae but it will oxidize or destroy ammonia, nitrogen
and swimmer waster. Does not increase chlorine or bromine
levels the way that super chlorination does, so water may
be entered 15 minutes after addition. It will not reactivate
bromine.
SODIUM SULFITE
A chemical used to neutralize or de-chlorinate pool and spa
water.
SODIUM THIOSULFATE
A chemical used to neutralize or de-chlorinate pool and spa
water.
SOFT WATER
Water that has a very low calcium and magnesium content (water
hardness) - usually means less than 100 ppm or 6 grains. Also
water that has gone through a water softener. Pools and spas
should never be filled with soft water from a softener. Water
with less than 100 ppm of hardness should be increased to
a minimum of 150 to 200 ppm using calcium chloride.
SOLAR COVER
A cover that, when placed on the water's surface of a pool,
spa or hot tub, increases the water temperature by absorption
and transmission of solar radiation; reduces evaporation and
prevents wind-borne debris from entering the water.
SOLAR HEATING
SYSTEM It is usually panels or coils of plastic or
metal through which water passes to increase the temperature
from the sun's radiant heat.
SOURCE WATER
Also called "tap" water - It is the water used to fill or
refill the pool or spa.
SPRING BOARD
Also called "diving" board - A recreational mechanism for
entering a swimming pool consisting of a semi-rigid board
that derives its spring from a fulcrum mounted below the board
and attached to the deck.
STABILIZED CHLORINE
A family of chlorine pool sanitizers that contain conditioner
(cyanuric acid or iso- cyanuric acit) to protect the chlorine
from the degrading UV rays in sunlight. Most common types
are sodium dichlor and trichlor. The granular form is dichlor
which is fact- dissolving and can be used for regular chlorination
or super chlorination by broad- casting into the pool or spa.
Tablet or stick form is trichlor (which is usually used in
a chlorine feeder - either the floating type or in-line erosion
type) used for regular chlorination only.
STAIN
A discoloration or a colored deposit on the walls or bottom
of a swimming pool or spa. Most often, stains are metals,
such as iron, copper & manganese. They may appear as green,
gray, brown or black. They may even discolor the water. Sometimes
a sequestering agent or chelating agent will remove them.
If not, usually an acid wash is necessary to remove them from
the walls & bottom. The metals get in the water because the
pH was too low or someone has added a low-pH chemical directly
into the circulation system. The low-pH chemical dissolves
a small amount of metal from the equipment. The metals begin
to come out of solutions & deposit or stain the walls & bottom.
Stains are sometimes confused with scale.
STAIN INHIBITOR
Also called sequestering or chelating agent - A chemical that
will combine with dissolved metals in the water to prevent
the metals from coming out of solution (precipitating or causing
stains). May also be a chemical that removes dissolved metals
from water.
SUPERCHLORINATION
The practice of adding an extra large dose (5 to 10 ppm) of
chlorine to the water to destroy ammonia, nitrogen and swimmer
waste, which can build up in the water. This level of chlorine
is required to destroy all of the combined chlorine in the
water, which is called breakpoint chlorination.
SURFACTANT
A soluble chemical compound that reduces the surface tension
between two liquids. It is used in many detergents and soapy
cleaning compounds.
SUSPENDED SOLIDS
Insoluble solid particles that either float on the surface
of or are in suspension in the water, causing turbidity. They
may be held in suspension by agitation or flow. They may be
removed by filtration, but if the particles are too small,
they may not be trapped by the filter. In these cases, a clarifier
or alum may be needed to remove them.
TEE
A plumbing fitting in the shape of a "T" used to connect pipes.
TELEPOLE
A long-handled aluminum pole, which extends in length. Various
pool-cleaning tools, such as brushes or vacuums, may then
be attached.
TEST KIT
An apparatus or device used to monitor specific chemical residuals,
levels, constituents or demands in pool or spa water. Kits
usually contain reagents, vials, titrants, color comparators
and other materials needed to perform tests. The most common
pool and spa water tests are: pH, total alkalinity, free available
chlorine, water hardness, cyanuric acid, iron and copper.
TEST STRIPS
Small plastic strips with pads attached that have been impregnated
with reagents that can be used to test pool water for residuals,
levels, constituents or demands. The strips are usually dipped
in the water, and the resulting colors of the pads are compared
to a standard set of colors to determine concentration.
TIME CLOCK
A mechanical or electrical device that automatically controls
the periods that a pump, filter, heater, blower, automatic
pool cleaner or other electrical devices are on or off.
TOTAL ALKALINITY
The total amount of alkaline materials pre- sent in the water.
Also called the buffering capacity of the water. It is the
water's resistance to change in pH. Low total alkalinity causes
metal corrosion, plaster etching and eye irritation. High
total alkalinity causes scale formation, poor chlorine efficiency
and eye irritation.
TOTAL CHLORINE
The total amount of chlorine in the water. It includes both
free available and combined chlorine.
TOTAL DISSOLVED
SOLIDS Also called TDS - A measure of the total amount
of dissolved material in the water. It is comprised of the
spent or carrier chemicals added every time chemicals are
added, as well as the hardness, alkalinity, chlorides, chlorides,
sodium, magnesium, calcium, etc. Maximum amount in pools is
2500 ppm. Maximum in spas is 1500 over starting TDS. The only
way to effectively lower TDS is to drain part or all of the
water and replace it.
TRICHLOR
A slow-dissolving, tableted or granular, stabilized organic
chlorine compound providing 90% available chlorine. Used for
regular chlorination but must be dispensed using a floating
feeder or an in-line feeder (chlorinator). Trichlor contains
an ingredient (cyanuric acid or stabilizer) that prevents
the chlorine from being destroyed by the ultraviolet (UV)
rays of the sun. Tri-chlor has a pH of 2.8, and regular trichlor
tabs should not be placed in the skimmer as the low pH will
corrode the metal components in the equipment.
TURBIDITY
The cloudy condition of the water due to the presence of extremely
fine particles in suspension that cannot be trapped by the
filter because they are too small. Adding a clarifier, such
as an organic polymer or alum, will coagulate the particles
and make the filter more efficient.
TURNOVER
Also called turnover rate - The period of time (usually in
hours) required to circulate a volume of water equal to the
volume of water contained in the pool or spa. Pool capacity
in gallons, divided by pump flow rate in gallons per minute
(gpm), divided by 60 minutes in 1 hours, will give hours for
1 turnover.
UNDERDRAIN
Also call filter laterals or lower collection system - Slotted,
finger-like tubes that are attached to a sand filter manifold.
The slots are on the bottom side to prevent the sand from
passing through. Water comes into the filter tank, through
the sand, into the underdrain, and then back to the pool.
UNDERWATER LIGHT
A fixture designed to illuminate a pool or spa from beneath
the water's surface.
VACUUM
This term can be used to define any number of devices that
use suction to collect dirt from the bottom and sides of a
pool or spa. Most common is a vacuum head with wheels that
attaches to a telepole and is connected to the suction line
usually via the opening in the skimmer. It must be moved about
by a person, and debris is collected in the filter.
VENTURI
A fitting or device that consists of a tube constricted in
the middle and flared on both ends. A fluid's velocity will
increase and a fluid's pressure will decrease while pass-
ing through the constriction. Placing a tube or pipe at the
constriction point creates a vacuum. Fluid or air can then
be drawn in through the tube. A hydro-therapy jet draws air
in and mixes it with the water using this principle.
VINYL LINER
The vinyl membrane that acts as the container to hold or contain
the water.
WATER
CLARIFIER Also called coagulant or flocculant - A
chemical compound used to gather (coagulate or agglomerate)
or to precipitate suspended particles so they may be removed
by vacuuming or filtration. There are two types; in- organic
salts of aluminum (alum) and other metals or water-soluble
organic polyelectro-lytes.
WEIR
Also called skimmer weir - Part of a skimmer that adjust automatically
to small changes in water level to assure a continuous flow
of water to the skimmer. The small floating "door" on the
side of the skimmer that faces the water over which water
flows on its way to the skimmer. The weir also prevents debris
from floating back into the pool after the pump shuts off.
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