BioGuard® Pool Care Guide

POOL CARE GUIDE

2014

contents What Makes BioGuard Different? 1 What’s New 2 Pool Care Basics 3 Pool Care Systems 4-11 • 3-Step System 4 • Smart PAK 5 (for Feeder/Floater fed pools) • Once-A-Week 3-Step System 6 • Smart PAK 7 (for Skimmer fed pools) • SoftSwim System 8 • Mineral Springs System 9 • SaltScapes Saltwater 10-11 Pool Care System ®

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Products and Accessories 12-13 Water Balance 14 Opening Your Pool 16 Vacation Maintenance 17 Closing Your Pool 17-18 First Aid 19 Safety Tips 20-21 FAQs 22-23 Your Pool Profile 24-25

what makes BioGuard different? ®

When you use BioGuard Products in your pool, you are enlisting a group of individuals whose expertise is unsurpassed in the pool and spa industry. Whose dedication to helping you achieve perfect water, no matter what the individual circumstance, is their number one priority. Whose sole purpose is making your pool or spa the most enjoyable and trouble-free experience that you and your family will ever have. Whose dedication to innovation and history of new product introductions is never matched, but often imitated. This dedication to service and the relentless pursuit of perfect water is inherent in the DNA of every BioGuard Dealer.

BioGuard has simplified pool care. Our customized pool care systems give you beautiful water and take just minutes per week. What’s more, you can rely on the expertise and knowledge of your BioGuard Dealers to guide you along the way and answer your questions.

Your dealer is also your source for professional water testing. Just bring in a water sample for a computerized water analysis based on BioGuard’s exclusive technology.

Be sure to visit us online at BioGuard.com for all your pool care needs. It’s the perfect resource for “instant” information on our products, programs and services, including the location of the nearest BioGuard Dealer.

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What’s New BioGuard® Freshen Up™ Freshen Up is a pool water purifier uniquely designed to destroy contaminants such as sweat, urine, lotions, pet dander, fertilizers, and much more. Broadcast directly over pool water and watch its intense fizzing action go immediately to work, ridding a pool of unwanted filth.

One bottle treats up to 30,000 gallons of pool water and swimmers may re-enter the pool in as little as 15 minutes.

BioGuard SaltScapes™ Saltwater Pool Care SaltScapes Saltwater Pool Care was designed specifically for saltwater pools and provides everything you will need to keep your saltwater pool sparkling and protect your equipment and pool surfaces. With a wide range of “salt-specific” products to choose from, we provide everything you need for the unique maintenance of a saltwater pool system.

BioGuard Burnout 73 Burnout 73 is a full strength calcium hypochlorite that can be used for weekly maintenance or as a problem solver. This quick dissolving product will restore sparkle and clarity to cloudy water. It can be added directly to pool water to destroy contaminants without premixing.

A 1 lb. bag will treat up to 16,500 gallons of pool water. ®

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BioGuard Five Keys to Pool Care Basics ®

Get the most out of your pool by following the five keys to basic pool maintenance.

1. Circulation The more your water is in motion, the harder it is for bacteria and algae to take hold. Maximize your sanitizer’s efficiency by circulating your pool water, preferably during the day, for a minimum of 10-12 hours.

2. Filtration Your filter removes both visible debris and most microscopic matter.

Check the manufacturer’s guidelines on backwashing — a process that removes materials trapped on or in the filter media. A regular chemical cleaning is necessary approximately every 6 weeks since backwashing will not remove oils and deeply embedded debris.

3. Cleaning Algae and bacteria can begin to grow in areas that have little or no circulation. At least once a week, brush and vacuum the walls and floor of your swimming pool. Brushing is a must, even if you use an automatic pool cleaner or retain a weekly service.

4. Testing Certain pool parameters must be regularly measured and adjusted, including active sanitizer (free available chlorine, bromine, or biguanide), total alkalinity and calcium hardness, among others. Most important are pH and active sanitizer levels — both should be tested weekly.* You should also take a sample to your BioGuard Dealer when you open and close your pool, and every 4-6 weeks during the season. *See page 16 for testing ranges

5. Chemistry Make sure you apply the right products to your pool water at the right time. Your BioGuard Dealer can give you precise instructions on what to do. It’s just one of the many valuable benefits you’ll receive as a BioGuard customer.

Circulation Filtration Cleaning Testing Chemistry

Run your pump for a minimum of 10-12 hours per day.

Backwash per manufacturer’s instruction. Chemically clean every 6 weeks.

Brush and vacuum your pool every week.

Test weekly for active sanitizer and pH. Bring a water sample to your BioGuard dealer monthly.

Apply the right products to your pool water at the right time.

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BioGuard Pool Care Systems ®

BioGuard offers five different pool care systems for simple, expert pool care. Depending on your preference, you can choose from traditional chlorine systems, a non-chlorine system (biguanide), a saltwater system, and even a special mineral-based chlorine system.

Not sure which system works for you? Just ask your local BioGuard expert. You can find one near you at BioGuard.com. ®

BioGuard 3-Step care System ®

Great for busy pools of any size or surface type, this system should be used with pools featuring good water flow through skimmers or equipped with a chlorinator. Even with consistently heavy bather loads, you’ll enjoy effective results throughout the pool season.

Step 1 Maintain: Sanitize with Silk Tabs or Silk Sticks ®

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This hard-working product can be dispensed through the skimmer or floater, or with an automatic chlorinator. Silk Tabs and Silk Sticks contain SilkGuard , which protects your equipment from corrosion and hard water scale, guards against pool surface stains and makes your water soft and smooth. Use this chlorinating product with SunShield to kill bacteria 24 hours a day. Without SunShield, free chlorine residuals can be rapidly dissipated by the ultra-violet rays of the sun. ®

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Step 2 Maintain: Oxidize/Shock with Smart Shock

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A smarter way to shock, oxidize, buffer and clarify, multi-functional Smart Shock also kills bacteria. Its special blue algicide crystals kill and suppress algae. Better still, swimmers can re-enter the pool in as little as 15 minutes after treatment*. Smart Shock requires no mixing or pre-dissolving. *Refer to the re-entry statement on the back panel of Smart Shock for guidance.

Step 3 Inhibit: Prevent algae with Smart Algicide or Back Up ®

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Smart Algicide is a patented, non-foaming formula that keeps your water beautifully blue by preventing green, black, and mustard algae from forming in all types of swimming pools. Smart Algicide is also recommended for pools with attached spas, fountains, water features, or jetted returns. Back Up is a specially formulated algicide to prevent algae before it starts. Back Up works harder as the water temperature rises.

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BioGuard 3-Step Care System PRODUCT

FREQUENCY

BENEFITS

Silk Tabs or Silk Sticks

Every 3-5 days

Kills bacteria

Smart Shock

Weekly

Oxidizes, restores clarity and sparkle, kills bacteria

Smart Algicide or Back Up

Weekly

Algae inhibitor and preventative

Be sure to bring in a water sample to your local dealer every 4-6 weeks.

BioGuard Smart PAK for FEEDER/FLOATER ®

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The 3-step Care System in a convenient package. The Smart PAK for Feeders and Floaters is perfect for pool owners who use a chlorinator or floater to add their sanitizer. The Smart PAK for Feeders/Floaters comes in two different sizes.

The large PAK contains: • • • • •

(1) 8 lb Silk Stick (4) 2 lb Smart Shock (1) 1 qt Smart Aligicide Water sample bag Quick start card and a balancing & accessory product guide with coupons.

This PAK is designed to last a 20,000-25,000 gallon pool approx. 4 weeks.

The small PAK contains: • • • • •

(1) 4 lb Silk Stick (2) 2 lb Smart Shock (1) 1 pt Smart Algicide Water sample bag Quick start card and a balancing and accessory product guide with coupons.

This PAK is designed to last a 10,000-15,000 gallon pool a approx. 4 weeks.

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BioGuard Once-A-Week 3-Step Care System ®

A convenient and flexible system, the Once-A-Week 3-Step care system is a popular choice for above and in ground pools and takes only minutes per week.

Step 1 Maintain: Sanitize with Silk Smart Sticks

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BioGuard Silk Smart Sticks kill bacteria continuously by maintaining proper chlorine residual. They last up to twice as long as ordinary chlorinating sticks, tablets or pucks and only dissolve when your pump is on. Silk Smart Sticks also offer the added benefit of SilkGuard Technology, providing soft, smooth water and protection of equipment against corrosion, scale and staining. Not recommended for floaters or automatic feeders. ®

Step 2 Maintain: Oxidize/Shock with Smart Shock

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A smarter way to shock, oxidize, buffer and clarify, multi-functional Smart Shock also kills bacteria. Its special blue algicide crystals kill and suppress algae. Better still, swimmers can re-enter the pool in as little as 15 minutes after treatment*. Smart Shock requires no mixing or pre-dissolving. ®

*Refer to the re-entry statement on the back panel of Smart Shock for guidance.

Step 3 Inhibit: Prevent algae with Smart Algicide or Back Up ®

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Smart Algicide is a patented, non-foaming formula keeps your water beautifully blue by preventing green, black, and mustard algae from forming in all types of swimming pools. Smart Algicide is also recommended for pools with attached spas, fountains, water features, or jetted returns. Back Up is a specially formulated algicide to prevent algae before it starts. Back Up works harder as the water temperature rises.

BioGuard Once-A-Week 3-Step Care System PRODUCT

FREQUENCY

BENEFITS

Silk Smart Sticks

Weekly

Kills bacteria

Smart Shock

Weekly

Oxidizes, buffers, clarifies, kills algae

Smart Algicide or Back Up

Weekly

Algae inhibitor and preventative

Be sure to bring in a water sample to your local dealer every 4-6 weeks.

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BioGuard Smart PAK for SKIMMER ®

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The Once-A-Week Care System in a convenient package. The Smart PAK for Skimmer is perfect for pool owners who skimmer chlorinate and run their pump less than 24 hours per day. The Smart PAK for skimmer comes in two different sizes.

The large PAK contains: • • • • •

(1) 8 lb Silk Smart Stick (4) 2 lb Smart Shock (1) 1 qt Smart Aligicide Water sample bag Quick start card and a balancing & accessory product guide with coupons.

This PAK is designed to last a 20,000-25,000 gallon pool approx. 4 weeks.

The small PAK contains: • • • • •

(1) 4 lb Silk Smart Stick (2) 2 lb Smart Shock (1) 1 pt Smart Algicide Water sample bag Quick start card and a balancing and accessory product guide with coupons.

This PAK is designed to last a 10,000-15,000 gallon pool approx. 4 weeks.

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BioGuard SoftSwim Care System ®

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Soft, clear, CHLORINE-FREE water is easy to achieve. This non-chlorine sanitizing system is simple to use and is gentle on skin, hair and eyes.

Pools with good circulation, a vinyl surface, a sand filter and less than 25,000 gallons are perfect for the SoftSwim System. Make sure the pool pump operates at least 10-12 hours per day.

Step 1: Prevent Algae with SoftSwim A What is the first step to beautiful water? Prevent algae growth!

SoftSwim Algicide works hard to stop algae before it starts.

Step 2: Sanitize with SoftSwim B An effective, gentle alternative to chlorinating products, this product is formulated with poly-biguanide — the main ingredient that produces its characteristic “super-soft” feeling — to sanitize pool water and control bacteria.

Step 3: Oxidize/Shock with SoftSwim C This enhanced hydrogen peroxide product keeps water clear by removing contaminants that cause cloudiness. SoftSwim C contains special ingredients to keep it active in the water longer, reducing the applications of clarifier needed.

BioGuard SoftSwim Care System PRODUCT

FREQUENCY

BENEFITS

SoftSwim A

Every 2 weeks

Algae inhibitor and preventative

SoftSwim B

As needed to maintain 30 to 50 ppm

Kills bacteria, softens water, keeps pool water clear

SoftSwim C

Once a month or as needed to maintain 20 to 60 ppm

Clears water by eliminating body oils, perspiration, and other unwanted compounds

Be sure to bring in a water sample to your local dealer every 4-6 weeks.

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BioGuard Mineral Springs Care SYSTEM ®

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Mineral Springs is a premium saltwater chlorination program that goes beyond just simple salt. With BioGuard’s proprietary blend of minerals, you soften the water, protect your equipment and generate longer lasting chlorine. Mineral Springs is a simple program that takes only minutes a week. It’s perfect for people who travel or don’t have a lot of time to spend maintaining crystal-clear water.

Mineral Springs Beginnings Apply the proprietary blend of minerals in Beginnings to pool water at start up to create a mineral bathing environment and to protect your equipment. ®

Mineral Springs Renewal Maintain soft, gentle, sparkling water with weekly applications of Renewal to replenish lost mineral levels and balance pH. Renewal also contains a filter aid to help maintain crystal-clear water. ®

Mineral Springs Stain and Scale Stain and Scale protects pool and equipment from scale.

It also protects the generator cell from scale build-up.

When used with Convert, this product easily changes a straight saltwater system to the Mineral Springs System.

Mineral Springs Convert Convert is used to change your plain saltwater pool into a Mineral Springs pool. Now your water will sparkle all summer long and feel soft and smooth. Convert has SunShield that protects chlorine from degrading due to sunlight. ®

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BioGuard Mineral Springs Care System PRODUCT

FREQUENCY

BENEFITS

Beginnings

At start up

Keeps chlorine residual protected, provides minerals to allow unit to create sanitizer, prevents scaling and softens water

Renewal

Weekly

Replenishes minerals, keeps pH stable, clarifies, protects chlorine, prevents scaling, and softens water

Convert

To convert

Contains SunShield which protects chlorine from degrading, softens water

Stain and Scale

Once a season

Protects against scale formation and scale build up

Be sure to bring in a water sample to your local dealer every 4-6 weeks.

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BioGuard Saltscapes Care System ®

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Saltwater pools are favored for their simpler and gentler approach to pool care, but they do have some unique maintenance needs when compared to traditional chlorine pools. The SaltScapes Saltwater Pool Care System was designed specifically for saltwater pools and provides everything you will need to keep your saltwater pool sparkling and protect your equipment and pool surfaces.

SaltScapes pH Reducer The process your cell generator uses to convert saltwater into chlorine contributes to higher water pH every time your cell runs. SaltScapes pH Reducer protects pool surfaces and equipment by lowering pH to the ideal range and is a safer option to store and handle than liquid muriatic acid.

SaltScapes Chlorine-Free Shock Oxidizer Chlorine is effective at killing bacteria and algae, but creates unpleasant by-products when it reacts with contaminants like sweat, sunscreen or fertilizer.

SaltScapes Chlorine-Free Shock Oxidizer is a better alternative than boosting chlorine because it eliminates these contaminants without creating unwanted effects (such as a “stinky chlorine smell”) for clear, fresh odor-free water you’ll love.

SaltScapes Cell Cleaner The environment within your cell can cause chalky white calcium-scale deposits to form on your cell’s walls over time, decreasing the chlorine output. SaltScapes Cell Cleaner is highly effective at removing most types of scale and is strong enough to remove built-up scale in 15-30 minutes. All while being safer and easier to handle than acid cell cleaners.

SaltScapes SunShieldt Stabilizer Your salt cell generates unstabilized chlorine, which means it diminishes rapidly when exposed to UV rays.

SaltScapes SunShield Stabilizer protects generated chlorine from sunlight, allowing it to last longer and be less demanding upon your system. ®

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SaltScapes Algae Remover SaltScapes Algae Remover, is a highly effective, patented, non-staining pool algicide. This product is especially recommended for killing green, blue-green (frequently called black or spot algae) and mustard algae growths. Formulated for use in saltwater swimming pools of all surface and filter types with results in 24 hours or less.

SaltScapes Scale Defender The environment within your salt cell can cause chalky white calcium-scale deposits to form on a cell’s walls over time, decreasing the chlorine output. SaltScapes Scale Defender binds to calcium-based scale crystals to prevent them from sticking together and clumping on surfaces. This highly effective product ensures a clean, efficient cell.

SaltScapes Test Strips Saltwater pools need to have water balance levels tested on a regular basis just like traditional chlorine pools.

Proper water balance ensures the best swimmer comfort, equipment protection and sanitizer efficiency. SaltScapes Test Strips ensure correct salt and balancer levels.

BioGuard SaltScapes Saltwater Pool Care System PRODUCT

FREQUENCY

BENEFITS

pH Reducer

As needed to maintain pH levels between 7.4-7.6

Protects your surfaces and equipment by lowering pH

Chlorine-Free Shock Oxidizer

Weekly

Kills bacteria, algae, and other contaminants without chlorine by-products

Cell Cleaner

Once per season or as needed

Removes built-up scale to restore cell to peak performance

SunShield Stabilizer

As needed to maintain 30 ppm

Protects generated chlorine from degrading UV rays

Algae Remover

Weekly

Prevents and kills green, blue-green, and mustard algae

Scale Defender

Monthly

Protects against scale formation and scale build up

Test strips

2-3 times per week

Ensures swimmer comfort, equipment protection, and sanitizer efficiency

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Be sure to bring in a water sample to your local dealer every 4-6 weeks.

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BioGuard Products & Accessories ®

With the right system for your pool figured out, you’ll have the basics of pool care covered. All that’s left is the maintenance needed to keep your water sparkling clear and inviting all summer long. BioGuard also offers a comprehensive range of products and accessories to help you handle every pool care situation. Here’s a snapshot of what BioGuard has to offer. We also encourage you to visit BioGuard.com for more on what they do and how to use them. Or just talk to your local BioGuard Dealer — your pool care expert.

Freshen Up™ BioGuard Freshen Up is a pool water purifier uniquely designed to destroy contaminants such as sweat, urine, lotions, dander, fertilizers, and much more. Broadcast directly over pool water and watch its intense fizzing action go immediately to work, ridding a pool of unwanted filth. One bottle treats up to 30,000 gallons of pool water and swimmers may re-enter the pool in as little as 15 minutes.

Pool Tonic™ BioGuard Pool Tonic is specially formulated to remove phosphate and other contaminants, which are often too small to be caught on your filter. Utilizing a proprietary, dual-action formula, Pool Tonic binds to these impurities and makes them large enough to be filtered out of the pool.

The removal of these contaminants allows your pool to function at optimal efficiency for a clean, stress-free pool.

Natural Clarifier BioGuard Natural Clarifier is a natural, biodegradable solution designed to keep your pool water sparkling and your filter working at peak efficiency. It causes fine sediment particles to bind together making larger particles easier for your filter to remove, significantly improving your filter’s efficiency, and giving you clear sparkling water.

BioGuard Natural Clarifier has been formulated to work with all pool surface types and all treatment types.

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Natural Result™ BioGuard Natural Result is a broad spectrum of natural enzymes designed for use in swimming pools. Natural Result controls odors and waterline buildup caused by oils, lotions, greases and other organic contaminants as they enter your pool. The result is reduced maintenance on filters and pool surfaces. This incredible product contains biodegradable ingredients and is an environmentally friendly cleaner. It is specifically formulated to work in conjunction with the BioGuard Care Systems including Mineral Springs and SoftSwim . ®

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Skim Mor With the BioGuard Skim Mor product, it’s easier than ever to stop debris and scum before it reaches the filter.

This easy-to-use product traps debris that your skimmer misses and extends the life of your filter. Just slip one Skim Mor onto your skimmer basket, and oils, lotions, and cosmetics will be attracted to this filter aid that is treated with Mycelx . Ideal for use in all skimmer types. ™

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Polysheen Blue BioGuard Polysheen Blue is highly concentrated to clear cloudy water fast and restore water to sparkling blue. You only need 1 ounce of Polysheen Blue per 5,000 gallons and no diluting is needed. It binds together small suspended particles so they can be easily removed by your pool’s filter. ®

Off The Wall BioGuard Off The Wall allows you to efficiently remove scale, dirt, and stains on most types of pool surfaces including vinyl, asurfaces. The super-thick formula penetrates soil, scale, and hard deposits removing the ring of oil and dirt that serves as a breeding ground for bacteria. ®

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Water Balance Why is proper water balance important?

BioGuard Care Systems work best in water that is properly balanced.

Balanced water is more comfortable for swimmers because it reduces unpleasant odors, burning eyes and itchy skin. Balanced water will also help prevent equipment corrosion and/or scale build-up. Improperly balanced water can become cloudy and unappealing for swimmers. ®

The following BioGuard products maintain the critical components of water balance.

Maintain Total Alkalinity: Balance Pak 100–Total Alkalinity Total alkalinity (TA) is a measure of the ability of the water to resist changes in pH. If the alkalinity is too low, the pH will be unstable and will bounce from high to low very easily. A low total alkalinity makes pool water more corrosive. Balance Pak 100 is used to raise the total alkalinity.

If the alkalinity is too high, the pH of the water will tend to drift up and the water will have a tendency to form scale.

Lo ‘N Slo will lower total alkalinity. ®

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Ideal Ranges: Total alkalinity in swimming pools should be 125-150 ppm (or 80-150 ppm for pools equipped with a chlorine generator)

Balance Pak 200–pH pH is an important parameter of water balance because small changes in this number are actually large changes in water balance. If pH is too low, the water will be clear but it will be very corrosive and can damage your pool’s surface and equipment. Use Balance Pak 200 to raise pH. If pH is too high, the water will be cloudy and will have a tendency to form scale. Lo ‘N Slo will lower pH. ®

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Ideal Range: pH in swimming pools should be 7.4-7.6.

Balance Pak 300–Calcium Hardness If the calcium hardness is too low, the water will become corrosive. Balance Pak 300 will raise calcium hardness levels. If the calcium level is too high, the water is considered saturated so that calcium can then drop out in the form of scale. If you have high calcium hardness, talk to your BioGuard dealer about performing a partial drain and refill or using BioGuard Scale Inhibitor on a maintenance basis to help prevent scale formation. ®

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Ideal Ranges: Calcium hardness range for most pools should be 175-225 ppm. The ideal range for plaster and SoftSwim pools is 200-275 ppm. ®

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Opening Your Pool Avoid a summer filled with headaches by opening your pool the right way. With a well-ordered system, you can prevent future problems and lay the groundwork for a pool care plan that’s simple to maintain. We’ve outlined six important steps to help ensure a smooth, carefree opening for your pool. Of course, your local BioGuard Dealer is always ready to assist with information tailored to your specific pool care needs.

1. Remove the pool cover If you use a solid cover, drain off the water — but not into the pool.

Sweep the cover and clean it with BioGuard Stow Away to prevent sticking and unpleasant odors. Store it in a dry place that’s free of debris and protected from the elements. ®

2. Fill the pool Your pool must be filled to the middle of the skimmer opening to circulate properly.

3. Check your pump, skimmer basket and filter Make sure all equipment is clean and in working order. Start the circulation system and remove debris from the pool. If the filter (sand, D.E. or cartridge) is dirty, remove grease and oil with BioGuard Strip-Kwik . For scale build-up, use BioGuard Kleen It . ®

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4. Bring in a water sample for testing Circulate the water 24-48 hours before taking a water sample.

Using a clean plastic container (or one provided by your dealer), scoop about a pint of water at elbow-depth from the pool away from skimmers and returns. Seal the container and take it to your BioGuard Dealer for testing and analysis. You’ll get personalized instructions for starting up your pool.

5. Test sanitizer and pH levels Use one of the BioGuard Test Kits or Test Strips to regularly check the sanitizer residual and pH levels. To maintain proper balance, you should be in the following ranges:

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Free chlorine residual Total bromine residual Sanitizer residual (“B”) pH Total alkalinity Calcium hardness: Plaster & SoftSwim pools All other types ®

1 to 4 ppm for chlorinated pools 1 to 3 ppm for brominated pools 30 to 50 ppm for SoftSwim pools 7.4 is ideal pH. (7.4–7.6 is acceptable) 125 to 150 ppm (80-150 ppm for Mineral Springs) ®

200 to 275 ppm 175 to 225 ppm

6. Routine maintenance Now that you’re into the swim of things, follow routine maintenance recommendations for your selected pool care system.

Your BioGuard Dealer can also help you with a maintenance plan.

Vacation Maintenance While on vacation, debris and bacteria can collect in your pool and upset the water balance. Consider a “vacation plan” to prevent problems so you can come home to a clear pool.

1. Contact your BioGuard Dealer for a vacation maintenance plan.

(Your dealer can give you instructions based on your specific BioGuard Program.)

2. Clean your pool thoroughly, brushing and vacuuming walls and floors.

3. Test pool water and make sure it’s properly balanced. Anything that’s out of balance — total alkalinity, pH, calcium hardness, etc. — will likely get worse when left unattended.

4. Run your pump at least eight hours a day to help prevent algae and bacteria growth. (Either set your timer or ask a neighbor to turn it on and off.)

5. Upon returning, have your BioGuard Dealer perform a water analysis to ensure that your pool is properly balanced and ready for swimming.

Closing Your Pool For The Off Season Preparing your pool for the off season is the most important thing you can do to make your spring pool opening as easy as possible. There are enormous benefits to correctly closing your pool, including: • Protecting your pool surfaces and equipment • Keeping water looking its best all winter long • Protecting equipment from freeze damage • Saving money on extra maintenance when you open your pool Whether you completely cover your pool or just reduce maintenance, BioGuard can make winterizing painless. Convenient Arctic Blue Winter Kits include the products you need for cold weather care.

Check www.bioguard.com for more information or simply consult your BioGuard Dealer prior to closing. ®

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How To Winterize A 3-Step, Mineral Springs , or saltscapeS Pool ®

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Follow the steps below when you’re ready to close your pool for the cold weather season.

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Go to your BioGuard Dealer for a complete water analysis.

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Balance pool water according to the Dealer’s winter instructions.

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Brush and vacuum pool.

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Clean the waterline with BioGuard Off The Wall .

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hemically clean the filter with Strip-Kwik C or SaltScapes Cell Cleaner

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dd Arctic Blue Shock then Arctic Blue Algae A Protector. Use both products according to label instructions.

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Run the filter continuously for 24-48 hours.

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Winterize equipment according to manufacturer’s directions.

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ollow recommended water draining and covering procedures F appropriate to weather conditions in your area.

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How To Winterize A SoftSwim Pool ®

Follow the steps below when you’re ready to close your pool for the cold weather season.

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Go to your BioGuard Dealer for a complete water analysis.

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Balance pool water according to the Dealer’s winter instructions.

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Brush and vacuum pool.

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Backwash and chemically clean filter with SoftSwim Filter Cleaner.

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Add initial dose of SoftSwim A (1 quart per 25,000 gallons of water).

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Add SoftSwim C (1 gallon per 10,000 gallons). Wait 3 hours.

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Add SoftSwim B to top up to 50 ppm.

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Run filter continuously for 24-48 hours.

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Winterize equipment according to manufacturer’s directions.

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ollow recommended water draining and covering procedures F appropriate to weather conditions in your area.

First Aid: If an emergency occurs involving swimming pool and spa sanitizers or oxidizers, Immediately follow the first aid instructions given on the product label.

The following suggestions may be appropriate: • • • • • •

Remove contaminated clothing.

Call a physician immediately.

Skin contact: Immediately brush off excess chemical and flush with water for 15 minutes.

Eye contact: Hold eye open and flush with water for 15 minutes.

I ngestion: Immediately drink large quantity of water.

DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Inhalation: Move person into fresh air.

ny clothing which has come in contact with pool chemicals should A be washed before reuse.

NOTICE: This information is provided to assist customers of BioLab, Inc., in the safe handling and storage of swimming pool and spa chemicals. This information is believed to be accurate but BioLab, Inc. gives no warranty, expressed or implied, with respect to such information and disclaims any responsibility or liability whatsoever in connection with the transportation, storage, handling, use or disposal of its products by the purchasers and users of such products.

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Safety Tips Always read labels and follow directions carefully. When used correctly, pool water maintenance products safeguard the health of your entire family. If they’re mishandled, they can be hazardous. Keep the following do’s and don’ts in mind for a safer more enjoyable pool environment.

You should always...

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Clean up spills as soon as they occur and safely dispose of the material. Small spills can be diluted by hosing off into the pool.

Contact your BioGuard Pool & Spa Care Center for advice on cleaning larger spills. It’s hazardous to throw chemicals into the trash or put spilled material back into the original container.

Keep all spills away from lawns and landscaping to avoid damage.

Dispose of all chemicals according to label directions.

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Store chemical products safely and out of the reach of small children and pets. Keep your pool maintenance products in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from other household or garden chemicals and petroleum products.

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Keep chemical product containers tightly closed when not in use.

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Brace liquids so they won’t tip while transporting them in your car.

Don’t allow chemicals to stay in the car for a long period of time.

Make the pool store your last stop. Unpack them as soon as you get home.

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Wear protective equipment (safety glasses, rubber gloves, etc.) as directed on the label of the product.

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Use care when broadcasting powdered products into the pool on windy days to prevent product from getting in eyes or mouth or onto skin.

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You should NEVER...

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Never mix chemicals of any kind together. An uncontrolled reaction such as fuming, fire or explosion could occur. Always add maintenance products to the pool water separately and in different areas.

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Never mix two chlorine products from different containers together regardless of their similarities. All chlorine is not the same.

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Never overdose your pool. Be sure to use the exact amount specified on the label or by your BioGuard Dealer. Knowing your pool’s exact volume will help prevent over–or under–application.

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Never add water to chemicals. Always add the chemical to large amounts of water.

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Never inhale fumes or allow products to get in your eyes, nose or mouth. When opening a product, turn your face to one side or point the container away from you. In the event of accidental contact or if product is swallowed, follow emergency advice on the product label and call your doctor and/or your local Poison Control Center. The toll-free phone number of the Rocky Mountain Poison Control Center is (877) 800-5553.

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Never use a vacuum cleaner to clean spills.

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Never smoke around chemicals. Some chemical fumes can be highly flammable, and sanitizers or oxidizers can be ignited by a lit cigarette or match.

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Never allow children to handle, measure or dispense chemicals.

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Never interchange measuring scoops or place wet scoops back into any chemical container.

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Never store liquids directly above sanitizers and oxidizers. They may accidentally leak and contaminate other products.

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Never store pool sanitizers and oxidizers near metal products like bicycles, lawn mowers, cars, etc., because they may cause rust.

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Never leave large, open containers in areas where children play.

Such containers often collect water and present a potential drowning hazard.

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Frequently Asked Questions Why should I be on a pool care system?

By getting your pool on a system, you can establish a maintenance plan that keeps your water prepared for whatever the season brings— erratic weather conditions, heavy bather loads, rising temperatures, and so forth. BioGuard makes it easy with our different systems that account for all the products you’ll need to keep your pool sparkling clear and ready for swimming.

What is Free Available Chlorine?

This is the active chlorine in the water that has not combined with organic matter and is therefore available for killing bacteria and algae. The proper range for free chlorine residual is 1-4 ppm. Below 1 ppm can cause swimmer irritation, cloudy water and even growth of algae. You should test often throughout the summer when the pool is used most.

What is pH? A measurement that indicates the acidity of water. This is the most important part of chemical balance because it protects the equipment, allows the sanitizer to do its best job and increases swimmer enjoyment.

Ideal range

7.4 to 7.6

If it’s too low

Use BioGuard Balance Pak 200

If it’s too high Use BioGuard Lo ‘N Slo

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What is total alkalinity (TA)?

It’s a measure of the water’s ability to resist changes in pH. pH can be affected by environmental factors such as acid rain, pollution, run-off from the surrounding land, and fertilizers, just to name a few. Keeping the TA at the proper range will help prevent pH from fluctuating and help prevent scale and cloudy water .

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Ideal range

125 to 150 ppm (80-150 ppm for Mineral Springs)

If it’s too low

Use BioGuard Balance Pak 100

If it’s too high Use BioGuard Lo ‘N Slo

What is calcium hardness (CH)?

It’s the amount of dissolved calcium in the water. Keeping CH at the proper range will help protect equipment and keep water sparkling.

It also helps prevent cloudy water.

Ideal range 175 to 225 ppm (200 to 275 ppm for plaster and SoftSwim ) ®

If it’s too low

Use BioGuard Balance Pack 300

If it’s too high Use BioGuard Scale Inhibitor. If over 400 ppm,

it may be necessary to partially drain the pool

and add source water with lower calcium hardness What can I do if algae shows up in my pool?

BioGuard offers many solutions based on your individual needs.

Your Dealer will make educated recommendations after performing a water sample test. BioGuard has products such as: •

Banish to kill all types of swimming pool algae.

•

Spot Kill , which is formulated to kill black algae on walls.

•

pot Kill WP which should only be used on white plaster pools is S also formulated for killing black algae on walls.

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What can I do if my chlorine residual continues to be too low even after shocking?

This problem is referred to as Chlorine Demand. You may have an overload of contaminants causing Chlorine Demand. Visit your BioGuard Dealer with a water sample for more personalized instructions.

What’s the cure for foaming in my pool water?

BioGuard Anti Foam will eliminate foam quickly and easily in all pools.

If you have jetted returns or an attached spa or water feature, use Smart Algicide for algae prevention in place of Back Up . We do not recommend using SoftSwim in pools with water features, attached spas or jetted returns. ®

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FAQs

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Build A Personal Profile Your BioGuard Dealer will recommend a pool care program based on your individual pool and your personal preferences. Fill out the form below with your dealer. ®

About your pool Average Width

ft.

Average Length

ft.

Average Depth

ft.

Shallow end depth + deep end depth ÷ 2 = average depth

Volume

Gallons

To calculate rectangular or square pools: Average length x average width x average depth x 7.5 = approx. pool gallons To calculate round or oval pools: Diameter x diameter x average depth x 5.9 = approx. pool gallons

Shape:

Rectangular Oval

Square Free-form

Pool type:

Above-ground

In-ground

Round

Interior Finish & Color (vinyl, plaster, fiberglass, paint)

About your customized pool care program Name of program Products needed Program customized by Dealer phone number Filter Type:

Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.) Sand

Filter Make & Model Pump Make & Model Horsepower

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Cartridge Other

EcoKlean

Heater Type:

Natural Gas Oil

Electric Solar

Propane (LP)

Heater Model BTU Chemical Feeder Model Pool Cleaner Model

Weekly Routines TEST: pH (twice weekly) Free Available Chlorine (every 5 days if using Silk Tabs or Silk Sticks ) ®

ADD: Sanitizer Shock Preventative Algicide

Maintenance: Brush Pool Walls Skim Water Surface Vacuum Clean Water Line Clean and Empty Skimmer Baskets Clean Pump Basket Monthly Routine Have water tested at BioGuard Dealer

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BioGuard.com PO Box 300002 Lawrenceville, GA 30049 ph: 800.859.7946 | fx: 800.795.7946

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