Glossary
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Glossary of Pool Terms
There are 67 entries in this glossary.A
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Acid |
A chemical compound which releases hydrogen ions into water, decreasing pH. Products like muriatic acid or Sodium Bisulfate are used to lower pH and Total Alkalinity in pool water. |
| Acid Demand |
The amount of acid needed to lower pH to the proper level for pool water |
| Aeration |
The process of mixing air and water. In a spa this can happen two ways: 1) Using an Air Blower to force air into an air channel or through the spa jets. 2) With Venturi Air Controls that allow air to be pulled into and mixed with the water in the spa jet. |
| Algae |
Microscopic plants deposited in pool or spa water by wind, rain, and dust. They thrive in sunlight and warm water, clogging filters, increasing the need for sanitizers and oxidizers, and causing slippery surfaces. There are 21,000 known species of algae. |
| Algaecide |
A chemical added to water to prevent or control algae growth. |
| Algistat |
Any substance that retards algae growth. |
| Alkali |
A basic solution that neutralizes acids by releasing carbonates and/or hydroxides. |
| Alkali Demand |
The amount of alkali (base) needed in the water to raise pH and/or Total Alkalinity to the proper level. |
| Alkaline |
When the pH of a solution measures above 7.0 on the pH scale. Alkaline (often referred to as “basic”) is the opposite of acid. |
| Alkalinity |
The amount of bicarbonate, carbonate, and hydroxide compounds present in the water. Total Alkalinity is a measure of the water’s ability to resist pH change due to the presence of these compounds in the water. |
| Ammonia |
A Nitrogen containing compounds that combine with free chlorine to form chloramines. |