Be Proactive, Not Reactive: Protect Your Pool from Wildfire Ash
One thing our pool expert, Mark, always says is:
“It’s much easier—and less expensive—to be proactive than reactive when it comes to pool water.”
With wildfire smoke affecting much of Ontario this summer, that’s advice every pool owner should keep in mind.
Even if there isn’t a wildfire anywhere near your home, smoke and fine ash can travel hundreds of kilometres before settling into your pool. Those tiny particles can introduce phosphates, nitrates, and other contaminants that upset your water balance and increase the risk of algae growth.
What Wildfire Ash Can Do
Ash and smoke particles can:
- Increase phosphate levels
- Raise chlorine demand
- Affect your pool’s pH
- Make it harder to maintain clear, healthy water
- Put extra strain on your filtration system
Many of these problems begin long before your water turns cloudy or green.
Be Proactive
Instead of waiting until you have an algae problem, take steps now to protect your pool.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Remove any ash or debris from the water.
- Keep your filter clean and running efficiently.
- Have your water professionally tested.
- Treat elevated phosphate levels before they become a problem.
- Continue regular water balancing throughout the wildfire season.
Preventative care helps keep your water sparkling while reducing the amount of chemicals and work needed later.
Products That Help
We carry Summer Smiles Phos Out Ultra 2-in-1, which removes existing phosphates and clarifies your water, as well as Summer Smiles All Out Ultra 4-in-1, a weekly treatment that helps prevent phosphate buildup while removing metals and organic waste.
Let Us Help
Bring a water sample into Garry’s Garden Gallery, and we’ll professionally test it for you.
Remember, clear water doesn’t always mean balanced water. A quick test today can prevent costly problems tomorrow.
As Mark likes to say:
“Be proactive, not reactive.”
Your pool—and your wallet—will thank you.
