EcoSmarte Pool System Manual page 63

Phosphates
The new pool industry buzzword.
Author: Natural Chemistry® Newsletter - Vol. 11, March 2007, p. 2
Phone: 1-800-753-1233
URL: http://www.naturalchemistry.com/
Two of the most frequently asked questions on Natural Chemistry's pool tech line are, "What is
phosphate?" and "How do phosphates get into my pool or spa?"
What is a phosphate?
Phosphates have been around long before any pools or spas were built. However, it has recently
been proven that phosphates have a detrimental impact on pool and spa water, making phos-
phates the "buzzword" in the industry.
How are phosphates introduced into pools and spas?
Some of the more common sources of phosphate contamination are:
Source water - many municipalities are now using varying forms of phosphate based chelating
agents in an effort to preserve the water main lines from corrosion. These added chemicals will
increase phosphate levels.
Pool chemicals - many of the stain and scale inhibitors, as well as metal sequestering agents are
phosphonic/phosphoric acid based. This can be confirmed by checking MSDS sheets and product
labels. Once these products are added to a pool or spa, they begin to deteriorate and will increase
phosphate levels.
Environment - debris such as dust, pollen, dirt, and leaves will contribute to phosphate levels in
pool and spa water.
Fertilizers - both lawn and general agricultural fertilizers will increase phosphate levels.
REMEMBER! - although phosphates from these sources are usually poly-phosphates or organically
bound, all will degrade to "ortho", or reactive, phosphates with time.
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