Summer Safety: Pool Chemicals & Filter Essentials

Nothing beats a refreshing dip in the pool on a hot Winnipeg summer day. But behind the fun and relaxation, there’s a vital responsibility every pool owner shares: keeping the water safe, clean, and healthy. The key to doing so lies in two crucial areas—pool chemicals and filters.

At Krevco Lifestyles, we know that sparkling water doesn’t happen by accident. It requires a balance of the right sanitizers, proper filtration, and safe handling practices. Without them, pools can quickly turn cloudy, unsafe, or even harmful. That’s why this guide covers everything you need to know about summer safety, pool chemicals, and filter essentials.

By the end, you’ll know how to:

• Maintain safe chemical levels for swimming.

• Handle and store chemicals properly.

• Understand the role filters play in pool safety.

• Keep your filtration system running smoothly.

• Avoid common summer pool safety mistakes.

Why Pool Chemicals Matter

Pool chemicals aren’t just about clear water—they’re about safety. In the summer, when temperatures rise and pool use increases, water becomes more vulnerable to bacteria, algae, and other contaminants.

Without proper chemicals, you risk:

• Algae blooms turning water green and slippery.

• Cloudy or dirty water from imbalanced pH.

• Unsafe conditions for swimmers due to bacteria.

Chemicals work together to sanitize, balance, and stabilize your pool so every swim is refreshing and safe.

The Essential Pool Chemicals

1. Chlorine

The most common sanitizer, chlorine kills bacteria and keeps water clean. Ideal levels: 1–3 ppm.

• Available in tablets, granules, or liquid.

• Can be added manually or through an automatic feeder.

2. pH Balancers

pH measures how acidic or basic your water is. Safe swimming requires 7.2–7.6.

• Too high: chlorine becomes less effective.

• Too low: water can corrode pool equipment and irritate skin.

3. Alkalinity Increaser/Decreaser

Total alkalinity acts as a buffer for pH. Keep it between 80–120 ppm.

4. Calcium Hardness Adjusters

Calcium protects your liner and equipment from corrosion. Aim for 200–400 ppm.

5. Stabilizer (Cyanuric Acid)

Protects chlorine from breaking down under strong UV rays in Winnipeg summers.

6. Shock Treatments

High doses of chlorine used weekly or after heavy pool use to kill bacteria and restore clarity.

7. Algaecide

Prevents algae growth, especially during hot, humid days.

At Krevco, we carry a complete selection of pool chemicals—everything you need to keep your water perfectly balanced.

Safe Handling and Storage of Pool Chemicals

While pool chemicals are essential, they must be handled responsibly. Here are key safety tips:

1. Read Labels – Always follow manufacturer instructions.

2. Use Gloves & Goggles – Protect your skin and eyes from irritation.

3. Store Safely – Keep chemicals in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.

4. Never Mix Chemicals – Combining products can cause dangerous reactions.

5. Add to Water, Not Water to Chemical – Prevent splashing and reactions.

6. Dispose Properly – Never dump old chemicals into drains or lawns—follow local disposal guidelines.

The Role of Filters in Pool Safety

While chemicals sanitize, filters physically remove debris and contaminants. Both systems work hand-in-hand. Without proper filtration, chemicals alone can’t keep your pool safe.

Types of Pool Filters

1. Sand Filters

• Trap debris in sand media.

• Require backwashing every few weeks.

• Affordable and effective for above ground pools.

2. Cartridge Filters

• Use replaceable cartridges.

• Provide finer filtration than sand.

• Easy to clean by rinsing with a hose.

3. Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filters

• Use natural powder for ultra-fine filtration.

• Capture the smallest particles (as tiny as 3 microns).

• Require periodic re-coating.

At Krevco, we stock sand, cartridge, and DE filters, helping you choose the best system for your pool.

Filter Maintenance Tips

• Run the Pump Daily – In hot weather, circulate water 8–12 hours a day.

• Clean or Backwash – Follow manufacturer guidelines for your filter type.

• Inspect Regularly – Check for leaks, low flow, or unusual noises.

• Replace When Needed – Worn-out sand or cartridges reduce effectiveness.

A clean, efficient filter keeps water sparkling while reducing the amount of chemicals you need.

Common Pool Care Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced pool owners can slip up. Here are common mistakes we see during Winnipeg summers:

1. Overusing Chlorine – More isn’t always better. Stick to safe levels.

2. Neglecting pH Balance – Without correct pH, chlorine won’t work properly.

3. Infrequent Testing – Summer use requires testing 2–3 times per week.

4. Ignoring Filters – Dirty or clogged filters reduce safety and efficiency.

5. Poor Chemical Storage – Leaving products in the sun or within reach of children.

Avoiding these mistakes keeps your pool safe for everyone.

Krevco’s Pool Care Essentials

As Manitoba’s trusted source for pool products, Krevco Lifestyles has everything you need:

• Pool Chemicals: Chlorine, pH balancers, algaecides, stabilizers, shock treatments.

• Filters & Pumps: Sand, cartridge, and DE options with expert advice.

• Water Testing Kits: Easy tools to monitor chemistry at home.

• Accessories: Skimmers, vacuums, covers, and more.

• Services: Professional installation, maintenance, and repairs.

Why Choose Krevco?

When you buy from Krevco, you’re choosing:

• Local Expertise: Decades serving Winnipeg pool owners.

• Two Convenient Locations:

• 700 Berry St, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0S6

• 1000 St Anne’s Rd, Winnipeg, MB R2N 0A5

• Flexible Financing: With Flexiti, spread payments to fit your budget.

• Canadian-Owned: Supporting Manitoba families and communities.

• Comprehensive Support: From chemicals to filters to service calls.

Customer Experiences

• “We buy all our chemicals at Krevco. The staff always explains how to use them safely and effectively.” – Jenna, Winnipeg

• “When our filter stopped working mid-summer, Krevco’s service team had us back up and running in days.” – Tom, St. Vital

• “I love that everything we need for pool care is in one place, from chlorine to covers.” – Michelle, Headingley

Final Thoughts

A safe, clean pool is the foundation of summer fun. By combining the right chemicals with an efficient filtration system, you protect your family and friends while making every swim refreshing.

At Krevco Lifestyles, we provide everything you need for pool safety—products, expertise, and service. Whether you need chlorine tablets, a new filter, or professional advice, we’re here to keep your pool sparkling all summer long.

This season, make safety a priority and enjoy worry-free swimming. With Krevco, you’ll always have the support and solutions to keep your pool in peak condition.