How often should I test my pool water?+
We recommend testing at least twice a week during the swim season, and once a week during winter if the pool is covered. After heavy rainfall, a pool party, or adding any chemicals, test again before swimming. The SafeSplash app reminds you when a test is due.
What is the ideal pH level for a swimming pool?+
The ideal pH range for a swimming pool is 7.2 to 7.6. This range is comfortable for swimmers’ eyes and skin, and it allows chlorine to work at peak efficiency. If your pH drifts above 7.6 the chlorine becomes less effective; below 7.2 the water can become corrosive. Use pH Minus granules to bring a high reading back into range.
What free chlorine level should I maintain?+
For a residential pool, aim for 1–3 ppm (parts per million) of free chlorine. Levels below 1 ppm may not kill bacteria effectively, while anything above 5 ppm can irritate skin and eyes. If your chlorine drops quickly, check your cyanuric acid (stabiliser) level — it should be between 30 and 50 ppm for outdoor pools to protect chlorine from UV breakdown.
What does total alkalinity do and what range should it be?+
Total alkalinity acts as a buffer that stops your pH from swinging up and down. The ideal range is 80–120 ppm. If alkalinity is too low, pH will “bounce” unpredictably; too high and pH tends to drift upwards and the water can become cloudy. Adjust alkalinity first, then fine-tune pH.
When should I shock my pool?+
Shock treatment (super-chlorination) should be done roughly once a week during the swim season, or whenever you notice cloudy water, a strong chlorine smell (which actually indicates combined chlorine), or algae growth. Always shock in the evening so UV doesn’t break down the chlorine before it can work. Wait until free chlorine drops below 5 ppm before swimming.
How does the SafeSplash water-testing app work?+
Create a free account, enter your pool volume and type, then take a water sample using the SafeSwim photometer tester or manual test strips. Enter your readings (pH, free chlorine, alkalinity, etc.) into the app and it instantly calculates exactly how much of each chemical to add, with step-by-step dosing instructions tailored to your pool.
Do I need the SafeSwim photometer tester to use the app?+
No — you can enter readings from any test strips or liquid test kit you already own. However, the SafeSwim photometer gives far more accurate digital readings (especially for chlorine and pH) and supports additional parameters like phosphate and calcium hardness that strips can’t measure.
Is the SafeSplash app free?+
Yes. The water-testing calculator and personalised dosing advice are completely free. You only pay if you choose to buy chemicals through the app, and our prices are the same as on our website.
Where are your chemicals shipped from?+
All SafeSplash chemicals are dispatched from our UK warehouse in Basildon, Essex. Most orders placed before midday on a working day are dispatched same-day. Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses typically takes 1–2 working days.
Are your prices inclusive of VAT?+
Yes. All prices shown on the SafeSplash website and app include VAT at 20%. The VAT amount is itemised on your invoice.
What is liquid chlorine and when should I use it?+
Liquid chlorine (sodium hypochlorite at 14–15% concentration) is the fastest way to raise free chlorine. It’s ideal for pools with automatic dosing pumps or for anyone who prefers a liquid over granules. It doesn’t add stabiliser (cyanuric acid), so it’s a good choice for indoor pools or when CYA levels are already high.
Will a heat pump work with my pool?+
Almost certainly. Thermotec™ heat pumps are available in sizes from 9 kW to 34 kW, covering pools from about 10,000 litres to over 90,000 litres. The SafeSplash calculator can recommend the right model based on your pool volume. All models run on a standard single-phase 230 V supply.
How much does it cost to run a pool heat pump?+
Thermotec™ heat pumps have a COP (coefficient of performance) of up to 16, meaning for every 1 kW of electricity consumed they produce up to 16 kW of heat. At typical UK electricity rates, heating a 40,000-litre pool from 15 °C to 28 °C costs roughly £20–£40, and daily top-up heating is far less. Running costs are around 75–80% lower than a gas boiler.
Who is behind SafeSplash?+
SafeSplash is a trading brand of HeatPumps4Pools Limited (Company No. 7662022), based in Basildon, Essex. We’ve been supplying pool heating and water-care products across the UK since 2011.
How can I contact you?+
Email us at hello@safesplash.co.uk and we’ll get back to you within one working day. You can also reach HeatPumps4Pools customer support on the same email for heat pump enquiries.