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Cyanuric Acid Insights with Pool Expert

Mar 14, 2025

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Pool Guy Podcast Show: Cyanuric Acid Discussion with Bob Lowery

Introduction

  • Hosted by Pool Guy with guest Bob Lowery, a renowned expert in pool chemistry.
  • Topic of discussion: Cyanuric Acid (CYA), its role, and effects on chlorine in pools.

Bob Lowery's Background

  • 48 years in the pool industry.
  • Owned two chemical companies and a publishing company.
  • Written 21 books on pool chemistry.
  • Developed over 100 chemical products for pools and spas.
  • CPO instructor for 21 years.
  • Created five apps related to pool use.
  • Written numerous bulletins and has influenced current CYA debates.

Understanding Cyanuric Acid

What is Cyanuric Acid?

  • Also known as stabilizer or conditioner.
  • Introduced to the pool industry in 1956.
  • Stabilizes chlorine by slowing UV degradation.
    • Chlorine degradation: 75% in 2 hours without CYA.
    • With CYA, chlorine lasts 8 times longer.
  • Originally used in granular form, then compressed into tablets.

Role and Effects of Cyanuric Acid

  • Stabilization: Protects chlorine from sun, extends chlorine life in water.
  • Binding with Chlorine: Bonds with chlorine in the pool, small percentage remains free.
    • At 30-50 ppm CYA, 3% of chlorine is available.
    • At higher CYA levels, less chlorine is available.
  • Buffering: Acts as a buffer against pH decline, works with alkalinity to stabilize pH.
  • Saturation Index Adjustment: Requires one third of CYA to be subtracted from total alkalinity for accurate calculations.

Managing Cyanuric Acid Levels

Challenges

  • No effective chemical method to significantly reduce CYA without draining.
  • CYA does not evaporate or degrade significantly; accumulates over time.

Solutions

  • Draining: Most effective way to reduce CYA levels.
  • Using Alum: Can lower CYA but is labor-intensive and potentially leaves residuals.
  • Regular Water Replacement: Methods like prolonged backwashing help maintain CYA.

Myths and Misconceptions

  • CYA is often misunderstood; rumors of it causing cancer or being ineffective persist.
  • Studies show CYA is not carcinogenic.
  • Misconceptions about CYA binding to plaster or remaining post-draining.

Innovations and Recommendations

  • Liquid Conditioner: Invented by Bob Lowery, offers a convenient way to add CYA without granular drawbacks.
  • Encouraged for all pool types, particularly vinyl and fiberglass.

Conclusion

  • Cyanuric acid is crucial in pool management for protecting and stabilizing chlorine.
  • Proper understanding and management of CYA levels are essential for safe and effective pool maintenance.
  • Additional resources and Bob Lowery's courses are available for those interested in in-depth learning.

Resources

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