AFH-Proper Pool Management Example

THERESA BANKS MEMORIAL AQUATICS CENTER

THE MARYLAND-NATIONAL PARK AND PLANNING COMMISSION
Chapter 1: The Pool Manager
Chapter 2: Arrival
Presentation
Time Management
Focus
Chapter 3: Opening Duties
Entering the Facility
Initial Facility walkthrough
Chapter 4: Staff Management
Presentation
Time Management
Focus
Knowledge of the Facility
Understanding Responsibilities
Communication
Strengthening Team Camaraderie
Chapter 5: Managing Staff and Patrons
Enforcing the ALL of Rules
The Push
In the Guard Chair
Out of the Guard Chair
Customer Service
Chapter 6: Facility Maintenance
The Aquatic Facility
ADA Compliant Pool Lift
Pool Chemistry
Introduction to Pool Chemistry
Balancing the Pool-Saturation Index
Water Circulation and Backwashing
Managing the Spa
Filling-Running the Spa
Backwashing-Draining the Spa
Balancing the Spa
Managing the Heater
Chapter 7: Dual Chemistry
Chapter 8: Closing Duties
Preparing the Facility
Final Facility walkthrough
Chapter 9: Departure
Reevaluating the Day
References: Apendix A
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. The Pool
Manager
2. Arrival
3. Opening
Duties
4. Staff
Management
5. Managing
Staff and
Patrons
6. Facility
Mainenance
7. Dual
Chemistry
8. Closing Duties
9. Departure
AA. References
v
1
3
3
4
4
5
6
7
9
10
10
11
11
39
39
40
41
41
43
44
46
47
49
49
50
55
55
57
60
77
79
81
87
89
91
93
93
93
95
95
97

Chapter 6: Facility Maintenance
1. The Pool
Manager
2. Arrival
3. Opening
Duties
4. Staff
Management
5. Managing
Staff and
Patrons
6. Facility
Mainenance
7. Dual
Chemistry
8. Closing Duties
9. Departure
AA. References
What does it mean to manage the aquatic facility? As the Pool Manager on duty you are
responsible for ensuring the facility remains clean, all elements of it and equipment remain
in good condition, functional, and in their appropriate locations, and the pool and spa water
remains sanitized, balanced and filtrated. As it was mentioned in the previous chapters,
think of the aquatic facility as your home, your Facility Director as your parent, your staff
as your younger siblings, and the patrons as your houseguests. You want to be a great
host for you house guest so they are impressed with your home. This means, the
restrooms must be clean so they will feel comfortable using them, the equipment must be
cleaned and in good condition for your guests to use, the floors and walls cleaned for your
guests’ comfort, the water fountains spotless so your guests can hydrate themselves, and
the pool and spa water is sanitized and balanced using the filtration system and chemicals
in the pump room so your guests can play and get fit while not getting sick.
It helps to manage what your duties and responsibilities are by referring to the
Opening/Closing Duties Checklist found in Chapter four. The checklist will assist you with
managing all of the elements of the aquatic facility, including its equipment.
As we discussed in previous chapters, the Pool Manager on duty is responsible for successfully
leading his/her team of staff personnel through daily operations which includes successfully
opening and running the facility accordingly to regulation standards, managing the facility’s
sanitation and equipment status, and ensuring the water is clean, safe and properly balanced.
All elements of the aquatic facility must remain well structured and clean at all times.
The Aquatic Facility
49

FACILITYMAINTENANCEADA Compliant Pool Lift
ADA Compliant Pool Lift Features
• Certified ADA Compliant by NSF
International
• 350 pound lifting capacity
• Self operable from the deck and
the water
• 90 lifts per battery charge
• All stainless steel construction
(electropolished 304L grade)
• Coated with Spectra Shield for
maximum corrosion protection
• Stabilizer bar significantly improves
lift stability during transfer
• Spacious seat with excellent
lumbar support and designed for
ease of transfer
• Rotationally and vertically powered
with 360 degree continuous power
rotation
• Quiet and stable operations
• Designed for in-ground and
above-ground pools and spas
• Easy to install, even into exisiting
concrete decks
• Proprietary Robust Operating
System and Actuator outperforms
other lifts
The ADA compliant Freedom Pool Lift is
designed for installation in the decks of
in-ground and above-ground pools/spas.
The Lift is an ADA/ABA compliant battery
powered lift with a safe and easy
operating system. The Freedom is
self-operable from the pool and the deck
and works by water-proof remote control.
The actuator outperforms industry
competition and features a battery with
superior lifting power and lifespan. The lift
is rotationally and vertically powered and
accommodates a setback of 6” to 22” and
water draft up to 12”.
Includes: one watertight remote control,
battery and battery charger, footrest, deck
anchor, seat belt.
You can view further recommendations
for the Pool Operator & Maintenance
Instruction Video to learn more about how
to operate and maintain the Freedom
Pool Lift by going to the followng link:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mx6mslLtZzU
50

Operator’s Guide: Lift Operation
WARNING! Read all operating instructions before operating the lift. Make sure that all individuals
using the lift have read the instructions and have been made aware of all safety precautions.
WARNING! Operate the lift exactly as described in the instructions above. Failure to do so may
result in damage to the lift or personal injury.
WARNING! Do not exceed the maximum lifting capacity of 350 lbs. This may result in damage
to the lift or personal injury.
WARNING! Do not rotate the lift directly into the deck or pool/spa wall. This may result in
damage to the lift or personal injury.
WARNING! Unless operating in an emergency, Lift should not be forced to rotate. This will
cause damage to the rotational components of the lift.
1. The Pool
Manager
2. Arrival
3. Opening
Duties
4. Staff
Management
5. Managing
Staff and
Patrons
6. Facility
Mainenance
7. Dual
Chemistry
8. Closing Duties
9. Departure
AA. References
51

Basic Principals of Lift operation
Activation of the Transmitter (Bottom Button, with a lock on it)
As a safety feature of this transmitter, there is a lockout button
that is just below the four directional arrows. To activate the
transmitter (wake from sleep mode), the lockout button needs
to be pushed and held for a full 2 seconds. If the transmitter is
not used within two minutes after the transmitter has been
activated, it will go back into sleep mode.
Lifting (UP)( ):
Pressing the ( ) button causes the seat to rise. The seat will continue to rise as long as
the button is pressed, or until the lift reaches its highest extent. Releasing the button at any
time during travel will also cause the lift to stop.
Lowering (DOWN)( ):
Pressing the ( ) button causes the seat to lower. The seat will continue to lower as long as
the button is pressed, or until the lift reaches its lowest extent. Releasing the button at any
time during travel will also cause the lift to stop.
Rotation (CLOCKWISE)( ):
Pressing the ( ) button causes the lift to rotate clockwise. The lift will continue to rotate in
this direction as long as the button is pressed. Releasing the button at any time during
rotation will stop the lift from rotating.
Rotation (COUNTERCLOCKWISE)( ):
Pressing the ( ) button causes the lift to rotate counterclockwise. The lift will continue to
rotate in this direction as long as the button is pressed. Releasing the button at any time
during rotation will stop the lift from rotating.
Use extreme caution when transferring to or from the lift; it is the responsibility of the user
to allow for safe operation of this lift.
To enter the Pool or Spa:
A. Unlock remote by holding the Lock button on the transmitter for 3 seconds (lift will be
operational for 2 minutes)
B. Position the chair of the lift over the deck in a suitable position for a transfer using the
directional buttons on the transmitter
C. Carefully transfer into the lift seat from mobility device
D. Fasten seatbelt
E. Rotate the lift over the water, where it will not come into contact with the pool edge or
any obstruction using the left or right buttons on the transmitter
F. Lower the lift into the water until buoyant, by pushing the down button
G. Unfasten seatbelt and carefully move away from the lift
H. Using the directional buttons on remote return lift chair to an on deck position not over
the pool
FACILITYMAINTENANCE
52

To Exit the Pool or Spa:
A. Unlock remote by holding the Lock button on the transmitter for 3 seconds (lift will be operational
for 2 minutes)
B. Recall lift chair into water to the previous depth and position upon transferring from the lift seat
to the pool using directional arrows
C. Carefully transfer into the lift seat from water
D. Fasten seatbelt
E. Lift the seat straight up using the up directional arrow on the transmitter until top of lifting stroke is
reached
F. Rotate the chair into a suitable position on deck to transfer from lift seat
G. Unfasten Seatbelt
H. Carefully Transfer from lift seat into mobility device
*Note: If the lift is overloaded at the seat, a clutch in the actuator will ratchet, this will be
evident by a very noticeable clanking noise and the lift will shake but not move. After weight
is taken off of the seat, the lift will resume normal operation. If this happens check the lift and
pivots for structural damage before resuming a safe lifting procedure at or under the 350 lbs
working load limit.
Programming A New Transmitter To The Receiver
*Note – The Transmitter will be programmed to the lift when you receive it; the only time you
will have to follow this procedure is if you replace a Transmitter or buy an extra Transmitter.
To Program a new transmitter to the lift, first remove the battery from the lift. Hold the
lockout button on the transmitter for two full seconds. Then press and hold the up button on
the Transmitter to be programmed, while replacing the battery on the lift. Continue holding
the up button on the Transmitter until the lift clicks once or moves up (the lift is most likely
at the top of its range, so you may try either rotation button and watch for lift movement).
If the lift does not work with the new transmitter, try the procedure again; making sure that
the transmitter is unlocked. If you are not able to program the new Transmitter to your lift,
please call Spectrum Customer Service at 406-532-6321.
Battery Charging & Installation
The battery comes fully charged, but will need charging after the first several hours of use.
Charging time is approximately twelve hours for the first few charges, four hours after the
first two full battery cycles at which point the battery will reach maximum capacity. The lift
comes with a battery charger for use in dry locations. Charge the battery as follows:
• Plug the battery charger into a standard* outlet. The green LED on the charger will
light up, indicating that the charger is on.
• Plug the charging cable into the charging port on the back of the battery. If the battery
is up to the charged voltage, the LED on the charger will stay green. If the charger
determines that the battery needs to be charged, the LED on the charger will change
to red.
• The red LED will turn green when the battery is fully charged. This charger has internal
1. The Pool
Manager
2. Arrival
3. Opening
Duties
4. Staff
Management
5. Managing
Staff and
Patrons
6. Facility
Mainenance
7. Dual
Chemistry
8. Closing Duties
9. Departure
AA. References
53

monitoring circuitry that will not overcharge the battery, if the battery is left on the charger for
extended periods of time the charger will go into short charging cycles at intervals to keep the
charge level at optimal.
To keep the battery from discharging to the point of causing damage, it is important to charge the
battery at least once every 3 months, even if the battery has not been installed on the lift. When
the lift is not in use, and the battery is installed on the lift, the battery will hold a charge much
longer if the push button switch is placed in the off (out) position. This electrically disconnects
the battery from the unit, and will allow the battery to go up to 3 months without a charge cycle.
If the switch is left on continuously, the battery may need to be charged weekly.
It is important to note that with this switch in the off (out) position, the battery capacity indicator
light on the receiver will be off, and the lift will not work. After initial break in, the battery should
last approximately 90 cycles at the full 350# load rating of the lift before it needs recharging.
The battery will need to be replaced after 500 to 800 charge cycles or 3-4 years if properly
maintained (approximately 20,000 lifting cycles).
To activate the Emergency Up/Down rocker switch (located on the left side of the receiver),
rock the switch and the lift will move in the direction indicated. These buttons can be used if
the transmitter battery dies, or in the event of an emergency.
Changing A Transmitter Battery
To change the transmitter battery, turn the transmitter over and unscrew four small Phillips
head screws. Carefully open the transmitter case and remove the battery. This battery is
stocked at most stores where coin batteries are sold, it is a 3V lithium Type 2032. Under
normal operating conditions this battery should last at least two years.
Care and Maintenance
The following should be performed periodically to ensure safe and dependable use:
1. Remove any discoloration with a 3M scratch pad (stainless steel components only).
Wipe clean with a sponge dampened with Spectra Clean. Repeat these steps several
times to passivate the stainless steel. Spectra Clean kits are available from Spectrum
(Part Number 202050-00). Do not spray with high-pressure water, only clean with
non-chlorinated water.
2. Check all electrical connections – Check any external electrical cables for wear and/or
breakage in the outer insulation.
3. Check all mechanical connections – inspect the Nylock Nuts on all moving parts and
make sure they are snug. Lubricate all pivot points with light oil (3-1).
4. To maintain the battery properly, the battery must be fully charged at least every 3
months. If the battery goes for longer than 3 months without a charge, the battery will
have reduced capacity.
5. Apply Dielectric grease to the battery connections and receiver connections where the
battery and receiver meet. Any dielectric grease will work however Grote silicone
dielectric grease is applied at the factory.
FACILITYMAINTENANCE
54

Pool Chemistry
Introduction to Pool Chemistry
As it has been stated earlier, the Pool Manager must be a Certified Pool Operator, and only
Certified Pool Operators are permitted to handle the chemicals and mechanical systems in the
aquatic facility. This means that lifeguards who have been trained may take water samples in
order to conduct pool readings, but only the Pool Manager is responsible for handling the
chemicals required to balance and maintain a balanced pool, and can alter the mechanical
systems that operate the pools functionality.
1. The Pool
Manager
2. Arrival
3. Opening
Duties
4. Staff
Management
5. Managing
Staff and
Patrons
6. Facility
Mainenance
7. Dual
Chemistry
8. Closing Duties
9. Departure
AA. References
55

The Pool Manager’s responsibilities toward maintaining a sanitized and balanced pool and spa are
considered pool chemistry. The Pool Manager must apply specific chemicals to the pool water in
order to make the appropriate adjustments, or adjust the mechanical systems accordingly to
manage the pool’s circulation system.
If the Pool Manager is confused about the proper procedures for how to conduct their pool
chemistry responsibilities, they should not proceed without consulting their Facility Director for
assistance. It is imperative that the Pool Manager does not enter the Pump Room without full
knowledge, awareness and confidence of what is expected of them. Incompetence in the Pump
Room can result in serious injury. Be sure to fully understand the chemical and mechanical
materials before handling them.
How should you handle the chemicals? ALL of the chemicals can be dangerous and must be
handle with care. Pool Manager’s should become accustomed to wearing their Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE) when expecting to handle the chemicals. Be aware that even the
dry chemicals such as Soda Ash have a chemical reaction when mixed with water, it is best
to know how to handle each chemical properly, and to NEVER mix the chemicals together.
Mixing the chemicals together can cause highly dangerous chemical reactions.
Even if you wear your PPEs you must still handle the chemicals with care. If you spill any of
the chemicals on facility property or on yourself, follow the proper procedures, distributed by
the chemical manufacturer, for washing the chemical off.
Be sure to study the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) located in the First Aid Office.
This book holds all of the information about every chemical used within the aquatic facility.
By having full knowledge of each chemical, you can become a great pool operator, which is
major role in being a great Pool Manager.
FACILITYMAINTENANCE
56

Balancing the Pool-Saturation Index
What does it mean to balance the pool? Balancing the pool water is controlling the relationship
between different chemical measurements within the pool water. Properly balanced water creates
an environment that optimizes the disinfection process. It also protects the pool and spa system
components from chemical corrosion, thus increasing the useful operating life of equipment.
Properly balanced water provides more enjoyable swimming experience for the pool/spa users.
How do we balance the pool water? In the 1970s the swimming pool industry developed a
modified index called the Saturation Index which provides a method for determining whether the
water is balanced with regard to calcium carbonate equilibrium. The Saturation Index (SI)
determines whether the water will deposit calcium carbonate or maintain it in solution. The SI
incorporates five balance factors, pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, temperature, and total
dissolved solids.
The Taylor test kit tackle box provides all the reagents required to test the pH, total alkalinity,
calcium hardness, temperature, and cyanuric acid as well as instructions for how to complete
each chemical test. The Taylor test kit includes all factors of the SI with the exception of the
total dissolved solids.
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) is the total weight of all soluble matter in the water. All
dissolved matter added to pool/spa water contributes to TDS, including salt, user waste,
algicides, metal and stain control chemicals, clarifiers, defoamers, enzymes, wind-borne
debris, and water balance chemicals. TDS is in some manner a measurement of the “age”
of the water. Excessively high levels of TDS will cause the water to look dull or “tired” and
may exhibit a bad or salty taste. Hot water facilities such as spas develop high TDS as a
result of evaporation, excessive user load, and chemical use. A program planned water
replacement (Backwashing) is a good management tool to use to maintain proper TDS in
pools and spas.
1. The Pool
Manager
2. Arrival
3. Opening
Duties
4. Staff
Management
5. Managing
Staff and
Patrons
6. Facility
Mainenance
7. Dual
Chemistry
8. Closing Duties
9. Departure
AA. References
57

Temperature Calcium Hardness
expressed as CaCO3
o
F
32
60
46
76
94
37
66
53
84
105
o
C
0.0
15.6
7.8
24.4
34.4
2.8
18.9
11.7
28.9
40.6
Tf PPM (mg/L)
25
125
75
200
400
50
150
300
100
250
800
Cf
1.0
1.7
1.5
1.9
2.2
1.3
1.8
2.1
1.6
2.0
2.5
0.0
0.4
0.2
0.6
0.8
0.1
0.5
0.3
0.7
0.9
Total Carbonate
Alkalinity
PPM (mg/L)
25
125
75
200
400
50
150
300
100
250
800
Af
1.4
2.1
1.9
2.3
2.6
1.7
2.2
2.5
2.0
2.4
2.9
SI = pH + Tf + Cf + Af - TDSf
Saturation Index Factors
Saturation
Index
pH as
tested
Temperature
factor
Calcium
factor
Alkalinity
factor
Total Dissolved
Solids factor
Total Dissolved Solids Factors
Less than
1,000 ppm (mg/L)
12.1
1,000 ppm (mg/L)
or greater
12.2
To determine whether the pool or spa water is properly balanced, a full water chemistry analysis is
necessary. The Saturation Index formula is as follows:
If the water is not balanced, adjustments must be made to bring the water back into
balance. The sequence of adding chemicals to make the adjustment should be total
alkalinity first, follows by pH, and calcium hardness third. Temperature is not normally
adjusted for water balance as most of the time it is not a controllable factor.
FACILITYMAINTENANCE
58

+0.30 +0.1 +0.2 +0.4 +0.5-0.3 -0.1-0.2-0.4-0.5
Balanced WaterCorrosion Scaling
SI = pH + Tf + Cf + Af - TDSf
Example 6.1
Your pool water test readings are as follows:
pH 7.2
Temperature 84 o
F (28.9 o
C)
Calcium Hardness 200 ppm or mg/L
Total Alkalinity 100 ppm or mg/L
TDS 2,250 ppm or mg/L
Using the Saturation Index formula, the following results are obtained:
SI = pH + Tf + Cf + Af – TDSf
SI = 7.2 + 0.7 + 1.9 + 2.0 – 12.2
SI = -0.4
The water is slightly corrosive.
Example 6.2
Your spa water test readings are as follows:
pH 7.7
Temperature 104 o
F (40 o
C)
Calcium Hardness 600 ppm or mg/L
Total Alkalinity 100 ppm or mg/L
TDS 3,500 ppm or mg/L
Using the Saturation Index formula, the following results are obtained:
SI = pH + Tf + Cf + Af – TDSf
SI = 7.7 + 0.9 + 2.3 + 2.0 – 12.2
SI = +0.7
The water is scale forming.
Index between -0.3 and +0.3 is balanced
Index over +0.3 is increasingly more scale forming
Index below -0.3 is increasingly more corrosive
1. The Pool
Manager
2. Arrival
3. Opening
Duties
4. Staff
Management
5. Managing
Staff and
Patrons
6. Facility
Mainenance
7. Dual
Chemistry
8. Closing Duties
9. Departure
AA. References
59

Water Circulation and Backwashing
Swimming pools and spa waster must always be maintained at proper disinfectant
levels and kept free of harmful microorganisms, chemical consuming organics and
turbidity. For this to be accomplished, it is best to continuously circulate and filter
the water.
Circulation is the movement of water in the pool. A proper circulation will provide effective
removal of surface water, which has the highest concentration of pollutants. The main
feature of a circulation system is the pump. The pump provides the motion of the water
through the piping. Other water quality features such as filtration, chemical treatment, and
temperature control are meaningless unless the water is moving. As the Pool Manager,
you must know how the circulation system functions, where the pump is located, how to
turn it on and off, and the turnover rate.
FACILITYMAINTENANCE
60

Turnover rate is the time is takes for the circulation system to move the number of gallons equal to
the volume of water in the pool through the filtration equipment. Water is processed through the
filter, chemically treated, and then returned to the pool. In the pool, the filtered water is diluted with
the unfiltered water. Continuous removal of pollutants occurs by the process of partial dilution. This
course of action must be repeated enough times to achieve acceptable water quality standards.
Below is the Theresa Banks Memorial Aquatics Center Data Sheet which provides valuable
information about the pool and spa’s volume in gallons, water flow rate, and turn over rate.
1. The Pool
Manager
2. Arrival
3. Opening
Duties
4. Staff
Management
5. Managing
Staff and
Patrons
6. Facility
Mainenance
7. Dual
Chemistry
8. Closing Duties
9. Departure
AA. References
61

The following is the Theresa Banks Memorial Aquatics Center pool circulation system located in the
Pump Room:
Hair & lint
Strainer
On/Off Power
Switch
Sodium
Thiosulfate
Vat
Heat Pump
Backwash
Valves
Filter
Pump &
Motor
Warning
Pressure filters operate under high
pressure. ALWAYS open all air bleed
valves and TURN OFF the pump before
changing valve positions or removing any
clamps or fittings. Failure to follow proper
procedures could result in violent separa-
tion of the equipment causing possible seri-
ous injury or death.
FACILITYMAINTENANCE
62

Theresa Banks
Aquatics Center
MAIN POOL
OPERATIONAL INSTRUCTIONS
- Valve Tag Color
VALVE TAG INDENTIFICATION
VALVE #1 = PUMP SUCTION
VALVE #2 = PUMP EFFLUENT
VALVE #3 = FILTER VALVE
VALVE #4 = FILTER EFFLUENT
VALVE #5 = BACKWASH THROTTLE
VALVE #6 = HEATER INFLUENT
VALVE #7 = HEATER EFFLUENT
VALVE #8 = WET CELL INFLUENT
VALVE #9 = WET CELL SAMPLE
VALVE #10 = WET CELL EFFLUENT
Each valve of the circulation system located in the pump room is labeled with a number. You can use
the following document to identify each component of the circulation with its appropriate labeled
number.
1. The Pool
Manager
2. Arrival
3. Opening
Duties
4. Staff
Management
5. Managing
Staff and
Patrons
6. Facility
Mainenance
7. Dual
Chemistry
8. Closing Duties
9. Departure
AA. References
63

1. Initial Main Pool Start-Up:
a) Fill the pump strainer full of water.
b) Open the air relief valve on the tank.
c) Open valves: “1,2,3” (push handle “Down”), 4, 6, 7 and 10.
d) Turn the recirculation pump “ON”, the air in the system
will be forced through the air relief valve. When water
runs freely, without air, close the air relief valve.
e) Turn “OFF” the pump.
2. To Filter the Main Pool:
a) Turn “OFF: the filtration pump.
b) Open valves: 1, 2, 3* (push handle down), 4, 6, 7 and 10.
c) Turn on the filtration pump.
d) Periodically open valve 10 and test the water to ensure
that the controller is properly calibrated.
Theresa Banks
Aquatics Center
FACILITYMAINTENANCEAs the Pool Manager on duty there may be instances where the pool circulation system has been
turned off due to power outage, shortage or due to maintenance closure. Confirm with your Facility
Director if he/she expects you to reboot the circulation system and ensure you understand how to
properly do so. In order to operate the circulation system in the pump room, follow the instructions
below. The directions may also be found on the wall across from the pump motor.
64

Cleaning the Main Pool Pump Strainer:
a) Turn off the filter pump.
b) Close valves: 1, 2, 3.
c) Remove the pump strainer lid and replace the strainer baket
with a clean spare.
d) Replace the strainer lid.
e) Reset valves to the desired function.
f) Restart the pump.
Theresa Banks
Aquatics Center
As the Pool Manager on duty there may be instances where the pool flow rate has been slowed due
to blockage in the circulation system. In order to correct the blockage issue it may be necessary to
clean the pool hair and lint strainer. Follow the directions below to properly clean the pool strainer.
The directions may also be found on the wall across from the pump motor.
1. The Pool
Manager
2. Arrival
3. Opening
Duties
4. Staff
Management
5. Managing
Staff and
Patrons
6. Facility
Mainenance
7. Dual
Chemistry
8. Closing Duties
9. Departure
AA. References
65

An important aspect of operating the pool filtration system is backwashing the filter. The Pool
Manager on duty must know when it is time to backwash and how to do so properly. During
backwash, the water flow is reversed. The flow from the bottom laterals to the top. As the sand
within the filter is lifted, it expands, becomes agitated, and fills the freeboard area. The agitation
removes the trapped particles and material, which is flushed out the distributors to waste. In
manual systems, the backwash waster water is observed through a sight glass until the effluent
becomes clear. After the backwash cycle is complete, the cleansed sand begins the process of
filtration again.
Backwashing is required when the water entering the filter (influent) and the water exiting the
filter (effluent) reaches a 10 to 20 PSI difference. This difference is noted by the observation of
the pressure gauges located on each side of the filter flow, as required by many codes.
Always follow the written directions of the filter manufacturer. The Theresa Banks Memorial
Aquatics Center backwashing description and directions are as follows:
As dirt is collected in the filters, the pressure gauge will gradually rise and the flow to
the pool will be lowered. When the flow has been reduced by about 20%, note the
pressure gauge reading. In the future that higher gauge reading can be used as a
guide to tell when backwashing is needed. The increase in pressure will be in the
general area of 10 PSI, but will vary depending upon the pump being used with the
filter. Important: A sand filter never be cleaned on a timed basis, it should only be
backwashed or cleaned when the flow has been reduced. Failure to adhere to this
will result in a cloudy water condition. Please note that a filter removes organic
matter but does not sanitize the pool.
Backwashing the Main Pool FIlter:
Before beginning the Backwashing process, a solution of water and Sodium Thiosulfate
must be prepared. A vat should be approximately 25% filled with water. After the vat has
been filled with water, and the appropriate Sodium Thiosulfate amount has been added
and dissolved, the Pool Manager should plug the sump pump into the wall after starting the
Backwash process. The sump pump will suck the water out of the vat and mix it with the
water being backwashed to neutralize the chlorine.
Neutralizing the Chlorinated backwashed water using Sodium Thiosulfate Pentahydrate
The flow rate for the Theresa Banks Memorial Aquatics pool is about 320 GPM (Gallons
Per Minute). The Flow rate can be observed in the Flow rate Meter located on the
Return Pipe. When conducting the Backwashing process the Pool Manager must calculate
the proper amount of Sodium Thiosulfate Pentahydrate used to neutralize the chlorinated
backwashed water. In order to make this calculation, the Pool Manager needs to first
determine the gallons of water that will be a factor, as well as the desired amount of PPMs
to decrease (Ex: Chlorine level is 3.0, the desired amount to decrease is 3 PPMs).
To calculate the amount of gallons that will be a factor during the backwashing process,
take the flow rate and multiply it by the amount of time you will be backwashing. The Flow
rate is measured in gallons per minute and when multiplied by a total amount of minutes,
you will get the product of a total amount of gallons.
FACILITYMAINTENANCE
66

The Backwashing process at Theresa Banks Memorial Aquatics Center lasts and average of about
three minutes. During the Backwashing process, the Backwash valve is only opened at half capacity;
therefore the flow rate of the water exiting the Backwash pipe will be at half capacity. At a Flow rate
of 320 gallons per minute divided into half capacity, the flow rate during the Backwash process will
be approximately 160 GPM. By multiplying 160 GPM by three minutes we can calculate that after
three minutes of Backwashing, approximately 480 gallons of water will have been Backwashed.
The chart below provides the desired decrease in PPM for Sodium Thiosulfate Pentahydrate
based on the amount gallons. The Pool Manager can use this chart to best determine the
appropriate amount of Thiosulfate Pentahydrate to use during the backwashing process.
1. The Pool
Manager
2. Arrival
3. Opening
Duties
4. Staff
Management
5. Managing
Staff and
Patrons
6. Facility
Mainenance
7. Dual
Chemistry
8. Closing Duties
9. Departure
AA. References
Volume of Water - U.S. Gallons
SODIUM THIOSULFATE PENTAHYDRATE
Desired
Decrease in
PPM
1 ppm 1.2 g 3.6 g2.4 g 4.8 g 6.0 g
5 ppm 5.9 g 17.7 g11.8 g 23.6 g 1.0 oz
2 ppm 2.3 g 6.9 g4.6 g 9.2 g 11.5 g
10 ppm 11.8 g 1.3 oz23.6 g 1.7 oz 2.1 oz
3 ppm 3.5 g 10.5 g7.0 g 14.0 g 17.5 g
15 ppm 17.6 g 1.9 oz1.2 oz 2.4 oz 3.1 oz
4 ppm 4.6 g 13.8 g9.2 g 18.4 g 23.0 g
20 ppm 23.5 g 2.5 oz1.7 oz 3.4 oz 4.2 oz
30 ppm 1.2 oz 3.7 oz2.5 oz 5.0 oz 6.2 oz
100
Gallons
300
Gallons
200
Gallons
400
Gallons
500
Gallons
67

Turn on the water fill
to allow fresh water
to fill the pool while
we drop the water
level during the
backwashing
process. This will
prevent the pool
water level from
dropping too low.
1.
FACILITYMAINTENANCE The vat used to neutralize
the Chlorine in the
backwashed water should
be filled about a quarter of
the way with water.
Use the measuring cup
containers to collect
approximately 0.7 ounces
or 132 crystals of Sodium
Thiosulfate and add and
mix into the quarter filled
vat of water.
68

(Incase of a power
emergency, press the
“Reset” button to
troubleshoot the system)
Open the backwash
valve to allow the
water flow to enter
the waste pit.
Turn “OFF” the
filtration pump.
Close the filter
influent to prevent
the water flow from
returning to the
suction pump motor.
3.
2.
4.
1. The Pool
Manager
2. Arrival
3. Opening
Duties
4. Staff
Management
5. Managing
Staff and
Patrons
6. Facility
Mainenance
7. Dual
Chemistry
8. Closing Duties
9. Departure
AA. References
69

AFH-Proper Pool Management Example

Recommended

Recommended

More Related Content

Similar to AFH-Proper Pool Management Example

Similar to AFH-Proper Pool Management Example (20)

AFH-Proper Pool Management Example