Swimming Pool Codes - City of Fargo

6.1 SWIMMING POOL START UPCHAPTER 6 - SPECIAL CONDITIONSProper pre-conditioning of the swimming pool water after initial filling is essential forsuccessful seasonal operation. Most authorities recommend that the pool be filled directlyfrom the filler spout and not through the filter system. Many North Dakota waters containlarge amounts of iron, manganese, and color, which must be removed prior to operation.After the pool is filled, the water should be superchlorinated with a chlorine dosage ofapproximately 10 ppm. This will disinfect the water, satisfy the chlorine demand, andprecipitate the iron and manganese. These precipitated materials can then be removed fromthe pool bottom by vacuum cleaning prior to start-up of the filtration equipment.When the color or iron is not removed by the high initial chlorine dosage, coagulation withalum may be necessary.6.2 POOL TEMPERATUREThe ideal water temperature for pools is a range of 76°F to 78°F. Temperatures over 80°Fmay lead to bathers’ discomfort and increase algae and bacterial growth. Swimming shouldnot be permitted if the water temperature drops below 65°F.Heating the pool water is desirable for swimming during cool weather. The pool heatershould be thermostatically operated to prevent the pool water temperature from droppingbelow 65°F. This will permit raising pool temperatures to a comfortable swimmingtemperature in a shorter time. Problems commonly encountered in all water heaters are:A. Rapid scale formation on the heating surface.B. Severe corrosion on the waterside of the heating surface.C. Condensation forming on the fire side of the heating surfaces results indeterioration of the boiler surfaces.Softening of the pool water with zeolite type water softeners and/or the use of stabilizingagents such as polyphosphates may prove helpful. Care, however, should be taken that thepH of the water is adequately controlled so that a corrosive condition does not develop.6.3 WIND PROTECTIONThe use of windscreens or fences adds considerably to bather comfort during periods ofinclement weather. Windscreens reduce the wind action and trap the solar heat, extendingthe time available for swimming activities.Wind screens built of wood or fiberglass is effective, but reduces the spectator area. Portablescreens of canvas or plastic are popular. These materials, when equipped with grommets,may be fastened to the barrier fence as needed.24