What are Phosphates

Phosphate became a household word in the 1970’s. This is when people started to use low-phosphate and phosphate-free laundry detergents. This was to protect lakes, streams, wetlands and other runoff areas from the detrimental effects of excess phosphate. One of these effects is unwanted algae blooms.

Phosphates Accumulate in Pools

What’s true for lakes is also true for swimming pools. Phosphate is a natural component of most swimmer wastes. It is also present in rain water. Phosphate is persistent and does not break down. For these reasons it continuously builds up in pools. Phosphate is a main ingredient in fertilizer. Phosphate is plant food, and algae are plants. When excess phosphate is present in a swimming pool, the symptoms often include the following:

  • Cloudy Green Water
  • Slippery and Slimy Surfaces
  • Mustard and Green Colored Debris
  • Excessive Chemical Consumption
  • Poor Water Quality

Remove the Phosphates and Solve the Problem

The maximum level of phosphate in pool water should be 0.1 ppm. Once the phosphate climbs above this level the water quality begins to decrease and slim deposits can begin. Fortunately, draining to eliminate the accumulated phosphate is no longer necessary. Lo-Chlor’s STARVER is a natural mineral compound which effectively and rapidly reduces the level of phosphate in water.