Can you use the 3 b borax-bleach-baking sode to maintain your pool?

The standard answer from the swimming pool industry is:

"Not unless you know absolutely know what to use, when to use it, what quantities to use and what the result will be after it is in the water. Do you know what to do in the event of over use of the product? What are the long term effects of these products? You need a test kit to test the water. One of the items can put the water chemistry balance so far out of wack and off the scale that it could damage something -- filter, heater. Another product listed would be too weak to make any noticeable difference in sanitizer levels. Causing you to use more and more of the chemical to achieve the required results. It could result in uncontrolled algae, calcium deposits, scale, rough plaster or pool finish and end up being a money pit. Stick with the tried and true swimming pool chemicals. Chlorine 12% or granular chlorine at 98 or 99%. Your area may require or demand Calcium Hyperchlorite -- low grade chlorine-- read and compare the percentages. To adjust the pH or total alkalinity -- use muriatic acid, dry acid - not sulfuric acid.

It sounds like you are headed for deep trouble with make do, use what you find around the house chemicals. Mixing some of the wrong chemicals by mistake can prove deadly. Being careless with pool chemicals or any other type of chemicals can be fatal. With some type swimming pool chemicals - even a single drop of water or liquid accidentally dropped into the chemical can and will cause a violent reaction and fire. Beware.

k "

Rebuttal:

I completely disagree with K. Borax-Bleach-and Baking Soda are the exact same chemicals as the "tried and true swimming pool chemicals". I do agree that you absolutely need to know what to add, how much, and when, and it's imperative that you have a good test kit.

For information and expert advice on how to care for your pool, I highly recommend visiting http://www.troublefreepool.com

robrinker

Answer

( It must not contain detergent ) Only use 20 Mule Team Borax Laundry Booster. It can be found at any grocery store. Try using the same amount as you would with PH plus 1 lb. to 10,000 gallons, and wait 2 to 4 hrs. Then check your PH reading. If it's still low, add some more until you get it to 7.2 to 7.8 range. Caution - check your alkalinity before using borax, because borax raises PH only, without affecting your alkalinity. If your alkalinity is also low you can use baking soda to raise your alkalinity and PH. Baking Soda raises PH and Alkalinity at the same time. Baking Soda has the same ingredients as Alkalinity plus, but half the price. Take a look at this web site for more information on Borax: http://www.poolsolutions.com/gd/borax_20mule.html (copy & paste to use link)