Scale Removal

Scale Removal

Scale Removal Products

Scale can be both unsightly and damaging to your pool (or spa). The most common type of scaling is caused by calcium and manifests itself as a while line around the waterline or on water features.

That white scaly line is actually calcium carbonate (aka limescale) and can be a result of having too much calcium in the water which is typically caused by hard fill water or overuse of calcium hypochlorite (cal-hypo) shock or cal-hypo chlorine tablets.

Scaling can be triggered when alkalinity, pH, and water temperatures are high and cause the calcium to precipitate into scale. Removal can be quite challenging and the best way to deal with it is to prevent it from occurring in the first place by maintaining proper water chemistry.

It is also key to understand sources of calcium that could cause problems and take precautions such as using a sequestering agent to help prevent precipitation.

What Forms Do Scale Removal Products Come In And How Do I Use them?

Chemical scale removal products come in liquid form and are added directly to your water and work overtime to soften the scale for removal by brushing or scrubbing.

There are also other methods to remove scale such as scrubbing with a pumice stone, wet & dry sandpaper, stain erasers, using a diluted muriatic acid solution, and even the use of a service that uses bead blasting for removal. The brutal truth is that there is no easy way to remove scale and as mentioned the best approach is to prevent it before it happens. 

As with all pool (or spa) chemicals, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s directions for their specific product.

Safety Information About Scale Removal Products

You should always read and follow all safety precautions on the product labels. Keeping your pool (or spa) safe means keeping yourself and others around you safe while maintaining your chemistry and your equipment. Some common recommendations include:

  • Wearing protective gear such as gloves and eye protection.
  • Store chemicals in ventilated areas and separate from one another to avoid chemical reactions from leaks.
  • Do not mix chemicals.

See this informative video for some more great tips on pool chemical safety.

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