Maintaining a therapy pool isn’t just about keeping the water clear—it’s about safeguarding health. For rehabilitation centres, hydrotherapy clinics, or private homeowners in Essex with therapeutic pools, precise chemical balancing is non-negotiable. Improper levels can irritate skin, compromise equipment, or even hinder recovery. This guide covers the essentials of therapy pool maintenance, ensuring your pool remains a safe, healing environment.
Why Therapy Pools Demand Specialised Care
Therapeutic pools are used by individuals with sensitive health conditions, making water quality critical. Unlike standard pools, they often operate at higher temperatures, which accelerates chemical reactions and increases evaporation. Key considerations include:
- Skin Sensitivity: Many users have compromised skin barriers due to conditions like eczema or post-surgical recovery. Harsh chemicals can cause irritation or delayed healing.
- Respiratory Safety: Over-chlorination can aggravate asthma or COPD—common among rehabilitation patients.
- Equipment Longevity: Warm water is corrosive. Imbalanced pH damages heaters, pumps, and liners, leading to costly repairs.
Common Mistakes in Therapy Pool Maintenance
Even experienced pool owners make errors with therapeutic setups. Avoid these pitfalls:
- Over-relying on Chlorine: While effective, excessive chlorine burns eyes and skin. Alternatives like bromine or ozone systems may be preferable.
- Ignoring Cyanuric Acid: Outdoor therapy pools need stabiliser to prevent chlorine degradation, but too much reduces sanitising power.
- Inconsistent Testing: Warm water requires daily pH and alkalinity checks—weekly tests won’t suffice.
Step-by-Step Chemical Balancing for Therapy Pools
Follow this protocol to maintain optimal conditions:
- Test Water Daily: Use a digital tester for accurate pH (7.2–7.6), alkalinity (80–120 ppm), and sanitizer levels.
- Adjust pH First: Correct pH to 7.4 before adding other chemicals—it affects all subsequent treatments.
- Sanitise Gently: For chlorine pools, keep levels at 1–3 ppm. Consider a saltwater system for gentler, consistent sanitation.
- Monitor Calcium Hardness: Maintain 200–400 ppm to prevent surface etching or scaling.
- Oxidise Weekly: Non-chlorine shock treatments remove contaminants without irritating users.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY maintenance is possible, complex issues require expertise. Contact a professional pool service if you notice:
- Persistent cloudiness or algae despite proper chemical levels
- Corrosion on rails, heaters, or other metal components
- Users consistently reporting skin or eye discomfort
Eco-Friendly Solutions for Health-Conscious Owners
Many Essex rehabilitation centres prioritise sustainability. Modern options include:
- Mineral Sanitisers: Silver-copper ionisers reduce chlorine use by up to 50%.
- UV/Ozone Systems: These destroy pathogens without chemicals—ideal for indoor therapy pools.
- Biodegradable Algaecides: Polyquat-based formulas prevent algae without harsh additives.
Pro Tip: Pair eco-systems with a quality cover to retain heat and minimise chemical loss.
Summary
Proper therapy pool maintenance balances stringent health requirements with technical precision. By testing daily, prioritising gentle sanitation, and addressing issues proactively, you’ll create a safe space for recovery. For comprehensive care, explore our chemical balancing services—Essex’s trusted solution for hassle-free, health-focused pool management.