CYA (Cyanuric Acid)

Cyanuric Acid, often called CYA, is a pool stabilizer that helps protect chlorine from breaking down under the sun's UV rays. It’s a critical component for maintaining proper chlorine levels in outdoor pools.

Why It Matters

Without CYA, the chlorine in your pool can degrade quickly, leaving your water unsanitized. CYA acts as a sunscreen for chlorine, extending its effectiveness and saving you money on chemicals.

Recommended Levels

To keep your pool water balanced, aim for:

  • Outdoor pools: 30-50 ppm
  • Saltwater pools: 60-80 ppm

Levels higher than 100 ppm can lead to reduced chlorine efficiency and potential water quality issues.

Testing and Managing CYA

Testing your pool water regularly is key to keeping CYA levels in check. Use test kits or strips designed for CYA to ensure accurate readings. If levels are too high, you may need to partially drain and refill your pool with fresh water.

How CYA Gets Into Your Pool

CYA is commonly introduced through stabilized chlorine products like trichlor tablets or dichlor granules. While these products are convenient, they can lead to excessive CYA levels over time if not monitored.

Takeaways

  • CYA protects chlorine from sunlight, keeping your pool sanitized longer.
  • Maintain recommended levels to avoid overstabilization.
  • Monitor CYA regularly and adjust as needed to keep your pool water balanced.

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