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Category: Water chemistry

Explore our comprehensive collection of health articles in this category.

What Causes Carbonate Bicarbonate in Drinking Water?

4 min read
Over 80% of urinary tract stones are linked to calcium oxalate, a substance influenced by water composition, demonstrating the real-world impact of water chemistry. This is driven by natural processes that introduce key ions into the water, and understanding what causes carbonate bicarbonate in drinking water is essential for addressing water quality issues like hardness and scaling.

Is 240 ppm Alkalinity Bad for Your Pool? The Complete Guide to High Total Alkalinity

5 min read
Most pool chemistry experts agree that the ideal total alkalinity range is between 80 and 120 ppm, so a reading of 240 ppm alkalinity is significantly higher and presents several potential problems. This elevated level can cause issues ranging from cloudy water and scale buildup to rendering your sanitizers ineffective, making it a critical issue to address for proper pool health.

How Do I Get My Bromine Levels Up: A Comprehensive Guide

5 min read
According to water care experts, maintaining a consistent bromine level is crucial for effective sanitation, especially in heated water. If you've discovered a low reading and are asking, "how do I get my bromine levels up?" the solution involves specific chemical applications and troubleshooting your system.

How long is Prime active in water?

4 min read
According to Seachem, the manufacturer of Prime, its detoxifying effects on ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate last for up to 48 hours. However, the product's function of instantly neutralizing chlorine and chloramine is permanent.

Is water important for coffee? A deep dive into brewing chemistry

4 min read
According to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), water makes up approximately 98-99% of a coffee brew, which means its characteristics are paramount to the final taste. Therefore, is water important for coffee? The answer is an unequivocal yes, and understanding this truth is the first step toward brewing a better cup every time.

What is a Normal Calcium Hardness Level?

3 min read
According to industry standards, the ideal calcium hardness range for pools is typically between 200–400 ppm, but what is a normal calcium hardness level actually depends on your specific pool surface. This dissolved mineral is vital for water balance, influencing everything from surface longevity to swimmer comfort.

Are Shrimp Sensitive to Potassium? Understanding Its Vital Role

4 min read
Studies have shown that a lack of potassium in low-salinity water can dramatically reduce shrimp survival rates, with one experiment revealing a drop from over 87% to just 5%. This confirms that yes, shrimp are indeed highly sensitive to potassium, and maintaining the correct concentration is vital for their well-being in both farmed and captive environments.

How Long Does It Take to Raise Salt Levels? A Comprehensive Guide

5 min read
For a swimming pool, it can take around 24 hours for salt to fully dissolve and circulate after adding it, whereas for a sensitive saltwater aquarium, the process must be done gradually over several days to avoid shocking aquatic life. The specific timeframe to raise salt levels is highly dependent on the environment, the amount of adjustment needed, and the method used.

What is the Target Salt Level for a Saltwater Pool?

4 min read
According to the American Heart Association, the optimal salt intake for humans is no more than 1,500 mg per day, but what about your swimming pool? The target salt level for most saltwater pools is a concentration between 3,000 and 4,000 parts per million (ppm). This specific range is crucial for ensuring the efficient and effective operation of your salt chlorine generator.