Everything to Know About Apartment Pool Acid Washes

Winter is when we receive the most questions about draining and acid washing pools. This is the perfect time for pool maintenance because lower temperatures are easier on pool plaster, and apartment residents typically aren’t using the pool as often. An acid wash is an effective way to remove algae growth, eliminate stains on the pool surface, and reset chemical balances in preparation for summer.

What Is an Acid Wash?

An acid wash involves draining the pool and applying liquid acid to the empty surface. This helps remove stains, algae, and buildup that regular maintenance can’t address. After the acid wash, the pool is refilled, and chemicals such as a pH balancer and liquid chlorine are applied to ensure the water is properly balanced.

Understanding Your Options: Draining, Acid Wash, or Chlorine Rinse

Each of these processes serves a different purpose, depending on the pool’s condition:

• Draining the Pool: This is ideal for newer plaster surfaces or when there is minimal algae growth. Draining the pool is primarily used to rebalance chemicals, especially when cyanuric acid (CYA) levels become too high and cannot be lowered by other methods. Fresh water helps reset the chemical balance and ensures the pool remains in optimal condition.

• Chlorine Rinse: A chlorine rinse follows the same process as an acid wash, but instead of liquid acid, liquid chlorine is applied to the surface. While acid washes are more well-known, chlorine rinses are what we most often recommend to apartment complexes. They effectively kill algae and remove stains while being less harsh on the pool’s plaster or pebble surface.

• Acid Wash: This is a stronger option for removing deep stains, scaling, or significant algae buildup. It’s more aggressive than a chlorine rinse, making it better suited for pools that have extensive discoloration or contamination.

Why CYA Levels Matter

One of the primary reasons for draining or performing an acid wash is to manage CYA levels. CYA is a naturally occurring chemical that impacts chlorine’s effectiveness. When CYA levels exceed 100 ppm, chlorine struggles to kill algae and keep the pool clean. While some treatments can help reduce moderately high CYA levels, draining and replacing the water is the only reliable method when levels become too high.

How Often Should Apartment Pools Be Drained?

For apartment complexes, we recommend draining the pool every two years. With high usage, this timeframe helps keep CYA levels manageable and ensures easier maintenance. While an acid wash or chlorine rinse is not always necessary, these treatments can refresh the pool’s appearance and eliminate any algae growth that may have started.

Schedule Your Acid Wash This Winter

Winter is the best time to drain and acid wash pools due to lower usage and cooler temperatures, which help preserve pool plaster. Our technicians are highly trained in acid washes and other essential pool maintenance services. If your apartment community needs an acid wash or a pool diagnostic, contact us today to schedule an evaluation.