Understanding Phosphates

Whether your pool is at your residence or your vacation rental property here in Oak Island, maintaining clean, clear, and safe pool water is essential for the health and safety of those using it. One often overlooked factor in pool water health is phosphate levels.

What are Phosphates?

Phosphorus is an element that occurs naturally, denoted as number 15 in the periodic table. Swimming pools often contain reactive, negatively charged phosphate ions, which can significantly impact the ecological balance of the pool water. When the levels of phosphate ions go beyond 125 parts per billion (ppb), the water in the pool can become dull, cloudy, or hazy. High pH and calcium hardness levels in the pool can also contribute to harmful calcium phosphate scale formation on surfaces and equipment, which is particularly problematic for saltwater pools. Testing for and removing phosphates can help to reduce recurring pool problems, simplify pool maintenance needs, and improve the look and feel of the water.

How Did They End Up in the Pool?

Phosphates are often introduced to water from external sources such as lawn fertilizers and decaying natural debris like leaves and grass. Additionally, municipal water treatment plants add phosphate to reduce corrosion within water pipes. Even everyday substances like sweat, skin particles, and beauty products such as sunscreens and lotions contribute to phosphate levels. In rental properties with high turnover rates and inconsistent maintenance, the risk of phosphate accumulation increases, leading to maintenance challenges and potential health risks.

QUICK FACT: We have observed high levels of phosphates, up to 1500 ppb, in the water from several outdoor faucets on Oak Island. The water is sourced from Brunswick County's Northwest and Highway 211 water treatment plants.

The Issues with High Phosphates

Understanding the risks associated with high phosphate levels is crucial for Oak Island pool owners: 

• Algae Blooms: Phosphates act like fertilizer for algae, promoting rapid growth. Some algae can replicate as fast as every 3-6 hours, leading to a green and cloudy pool that would be unpleasant to swim in.
• Reduced Chlorine Efficiency: Phosphates can tie up chlorine, making it less effective at sanitizing the pool. This can create a double whammy: cloudy water due to algae and a higher risk of bacteria growth.
• Potential Health Risks: High levels of phosphates in unbalanced pools can cause skin, eye, and respiratory problems for swimmers, particularly those with sensitivities.

The Vacation Rental Risk

For vacation rental and Airbnb properties here on Oak Island, high phosphate levels pose additional issues:

• Negative Reviews: Guests expect a clean and refreshing pool experience, but cloudy or scummy water will not earn positive reviews.
• Potential Health Risks: High phosphate levels can create unhygienic conditions that may lead to health issues among guests. As a property owner, it is crucial to demonstrate your commitment to ensuring guest safety.
• Lost Revenue: If guests have a bad vacation experience, they can ask for compensation or a discount. If a third party manages the property, they will decide on that amount. Click here for more information on our rental property program,

QUICK FACT: The image above was taken at a holiday rental property in Oak Island, displaying phosphate levels exceeding 4600 ppb. Previously, this property encountered difficulties in maintaining the water chemistry of its pool, causing it to become cloudy and green during the busiest times of the year. Consequently, this increased maintenance expenses and the management company refunded several guests due to their unsatisfactory experience. As a result, the property owner experienced decreased revenue for an issue that could have easily been avoided.

Maintaining Healthy Phosphate Levels

As a pool owner, you play a vital role in maintaining healthy phosphate levels:

• Regular Testing: Take a proactive approach and test your pool's phosphate levels at least once a month to prevent potential issues like algae and chlorine inefficiency.
  
• Use High-Quality Chemicals: The wrong "metal removers" and "stain control" chemicals, sometimes called sequestering products, can contain phosphorous and, while potentially solving one issue, may contribute to another. 
• Use a Phosphate Remover: If your pool's phosphate levels are high, don't worry. You can quickly reduce them using a high-quality phosphate remover and ensure proper circulation and filtration. 
   

By routinely monitoring phosphate levels, pool owners can ensure they remain inviting and healthy for guests, avoiding negative reviews and potential health concerns.