What is CYA?

CYA, or cyanuric acid, is an important component in pool maintenance as it helps to stabilize the levels of chlorine in the water. Chlorine is a commonly used disinfectant in swimming pools, and it works by killing bacteria and other harmful organisms in the water. However, chlorine can be broken down by the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can reduce its effectiveness in keeping the water clean.This is where CYA comes in. CYA acts as a stabilizer for chlorine, protecting it from the sun's UV rays and helping to maintain a consistent level of chlorine in the water. Without CYA, the chlorine in the pool water would break down quickly, and it would need to be added more frequently, making pool maintenance more challenging and costly.

The recommended level of CYA in a pool is between 30-50 parts per million (ppm). If the CYA level is too low, the chlorine will break down too quickly, and the pool will be more prone to bacteria growth and algae blooms. If the CYA level is too high, it can reduce the effectiveness of the chlorine, and it may take longer to sanitize the pool water.It's important to note that CYA does not evaporate from the water, and it can only be removed through dilution (adding more water to the pool) or by draining and refilling the pool. Over time, the CYA level can build up in the water, so it's essential to regularly test and maintain the appropriate levels.

Signs of a High CYA in swimming pools

Raised CYA (cyanuric acid) levels in pool water can lead to various issues, including reduced chlorine effectiveness, cloudy water, and potential algae growth. Here are some common signs of raised CYA levels in a pool:

1. Chlorine demand: One of the most apparent signs of high CYA levels is a higher demand for chlorine in the pool. Even after adding the usual amount of chlorine, the pool water may still appear cloudy or have a strong odor of chlorine.
2. Algae growth: High CYA levels can reduce the effectiveness of chlorine, which can lead to algae growth in the pool. If you notice green or brown algae growth in your pool despite regular chlorination, it may be an indication of high CYA levels.
3. Cloudy water: Elevated CYA levels can cause the pool water to become cloudy or hazy. This is because the high CYA concentration can reduce the effectiveness of chlorine, leading to the accumulation of bacteria and other contaminants in the water.
4. Skin and eye irritation: High CYA levels can cause skin and eye irritation in swimmers. The buildup of chlorine in the water due to reduced effectiveness can irritate the skin and eyes, causing redness, itchiness, and other discomforts.
5. High total alkalinity: CYA is acidic in nature, so high levels can reduce the pH level of the water. This can lead to a high total alkalinity level, which can cause scaling, corrosion, and other issues with pool equipment.

Measure to reduce high levels of CYA in pools

Reducing CYA (cyanuric acid) levels in a pool can be challenging since it doesn't evaporate from the water. However, there are a few ways to lower CYA levels in a pool:

1. Partial water replacement: The most effective way to lower CYA levels in a pool is to partially drain and replace the pool water. This method dilutes the CYA concentration in the water, effectively reducing its levels. To determine the amount of water to replace, you can use a CYA calculator that takes into account the current CYA level and the desired level.
2. Use a specialized enzyme product: There are enzyme products available that can break down the CYA in the pool water. These products contain specialized enzymes that can break down the CYA molecules, making it easier to filter them out of the water. However, this method may take some time, and it may not be as effective as water replacement.
3. Increase pool water circulation and filtration: By increasing the pool water's circulation and filtration, you can improve the efficiency of the pool's filtration system, which can help remove the CYA from the water. You can do this by running the pool pump for longer hours or using a higher flow rate when running the filter.
4. Use a lower CYA source of chlorine: Another way to reduce CYA levels is to use a lower CYA source of chlorine, such as liquid or granular chlorine. These forms of chlorine have lower CYA levels than stabilized chlorine, which can help reduce the overall CYA concentration in the pool water.

It's essential to regularly test and monitor the CYA levels in your pool to ensure they are within the recommended range of 30-50 parts per million (ppm). By maintaining appropriate CYA levels, you can ensure that your pool is clean, safe, and enjoyable for all.

In summary, CYA is an essential component in pool maintenance as it helps to stabilize the levels of chlorine in the water, protecting it from the sun's UV rays and maintaining a consistent level of chlorine in the pool. By maintaining the recommended levels of CYA, you can ensure that your pool is clean, safe, and enjoyable for all.