Table of Contents
What is Softswim A?
Softswim A is an innovative, enzyme-based pool treatment that offers a gentler approach to pool care, working with nature rather than against it. This special blend of powerful enzymes helps break down organic waste, body oils, sunscreen, cosmetics, and bacteria in pool water naturally.
When combined with proper pool cleaning routines and modern technology like solar pool ionizers, Softswim A creates a comprehensive, low-chemical water treatment system that maintains pristine pool conditions naturally while reducing environmental impact and chemical costs.
How Does Softswim A Work?
Softswim A utilizes advanced enzyme technology that works at the molecular level to break down non-living organic contaminants in pool water. These specialized enzymes act as biological catalysts that accelerate the decomposition of oils, lotions, cosmetics, body waste, and other organic materials.
Key Benefits:
- Breaks down organic waste naturally:Â Enzymes digest oils, lotions, and body waste without harsh chemicals
- Reduces chlorine demand:Â By eliminating organic contaminants, chlorine can focus on sanitization
- Prevents waterline scum:Â Eliminates oily buildup on tiles and pool surfaces
- Improves water clarity:Â Removes microscopic particles that cause cloudy water
- Gentle on skin and eyes:Â Natural enzyme action is non-irritating for swimmers
- Compatible with all sanitizer systems:Â Works with chlorine, bromine, salt systems, and solar ionizers
- Environmentally friendly:Â Biodegradable enzymes are safe for the environment
For pool owners seeking chemical-free alternatives, explore how solar ionizers keep pools clear without harsh chemicals.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Softswim A
Step 1: Test the Water
Before adding Softswim A to your pool, test the water chemistry. Verify pH is 7.2-7.6 (optimal for enzyme activity), total alkalinity 80-120 ppm, free chlorine 1-3 ppm, and calcium hardness 200-400 ppm. Enzymes function best in balanced water conditions.
Step 2: Add the Product
With pump running, pour Softswim A slowly around the pool perimeter according to label directions. Dosage depends on pool size, water temperature, bather load, and environmental conditions. Never mix with other chemicals before adding to pool.
Step 3: Run the Filter
After adding Softswim A, run the pool filter continuously for at least 24 hours. This ensures even enzyme distribution throughout the entire pool and allows enzymes to contact and break down organic materials in all areas. Learn why proper circulation is essential for clear water.
Step 4: Vacuum the Pool
After 24-hour circulation, vacuum the pool thoroughly to remove any debris, dirt, or decomposed organic matter. Vacuum slowly to avoid stirring up settled debris, using overlapping strokes for complete coverage. Consider using an automatic pool cleaner for daily maintenance.
Step 5: Monitor the Pool
Monitor water chemistry regularly after adding Softswim A. Test pH and sanitizer levels 2-3 times weekly, check water clarity daily, and observe waterline for oily buildup. Signs Softswim A is working include reduced waterline scum, improved water clarity, less chemical odor, and cleaner filter media.
Proper Dosage and Application
Initial Treatment
For first-time use or pools with significant organic buildup, follow manufacturer's initial treatment dosage. Use when waterline scum is visible, after heavy pool parties, or when opening pool for the season.
Weekly Maintenance Dosage
For pools with regular use during swimming season, add Softswim A weekly according to bottle directions. Weekly application prevents organic buildup and maintains optimal enzyme levels for continuous contaminant breakdown.
Monthly Maintenance Dosage
For lightly used pools, vacation homes, or off-season maintenance, monthly application may be sufficient. Follow label directions and adjust based on water clarity and waterline condition.
Seasonal Adjustments
- Summer (Peak Season): Apply weekly due to heavy use and high temperatures
- Spring/Fall: Apply every 1-2 weeks as pool usage decreases
- Winter (If Pool Remains Open): Apply monthly to prevent organic buildup
Learn how quality replacement kits improve daily water quality when using ionizer systems alongside enzyme treatments.
Ongoing Maintenance Schedule
Weekly Tasks
- Add Softswim A per label directions
- Test and adjust pH (7.2-7.6)
- Test free chlorine or copper levels (ionizer systems)
- Skim surface debris daily
- Brush walls, floor, steps, and waterline thoroughly
- Follow complete weekly cleaning routine
- Inspect waterline for scum buildup
Monthly Tasks
- Deep clean pool filter
- Inspect pool equipment (pump, heater, ionizer)
- Test for metals and phosphates
- Shock pool if needed for heavy contamination
- Replace ionizer components with quality replacement kits as needed
- Evaluate enzyme effectiveness and adjust dosage if necessary
Pro Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
Tip 1: Apply After Heavy Use
Add an extra dose of Softswim A after pool parties, heavy swimmer loads, or when you notice increased waterline scum. This helps enzymes keep up with elevated organic contamination.
Tip 2: Brush Before Adding
Brush pool walls, floor, and waterline before adding Softswim A. This dislodges organic buildup and allows enzymes to work more effectively on loosened contaminants.
Tip 3: Maintain Proper pH
Enzymes work best at pH 7.2-7.6. Test and adjust pH regularly to ensure optimal enzyme activity and effectiveness.
Tip 4: Don't Overdose
More is not always better with enzyme products. Follow manufacturer's dosing instructions carefully. Overdosing wastes product without providing additional benefits.
Tip 5: Combine with Solar Ionization
Pair Softswim A with solar pool ionizers for a powerful, eco-friendly combination. Learn about ionizer performance in large pools.
Tip 6: Monitor Weather Impact
Understand how weather affects pool systems and increase enzyme dosing during hot weather when organic growth accelerates.
Tip 7: Shower Before Swimming
Encourage swimmers to shower before entering the pool to reduce introduction of oils, lotions, and cosmetics. This reduces enzyme demand and extends product effectiveness.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Waterline Scum Still Visible
Possible Causes: Insufficient enzyme dosage, infrequent application, heavy cosmetic use, poor circulation, pH imbalance.
Solutions: Increase dosage or frequency, require swimmers to shower, adjust return jets for better circulation, test and adjust pH to 7.2-7.6, manually clean waterline, add extra dose after heavy use.
Water Still Cloudy
Possible Causes: Enzymes address organic waste but don't handle all cloudiness causes, poor filtration, chemical imbalance, inadequate sanitizer levels.
Solutions: Clean or backwash filter, test and balance all water chemistry parameters, ensure adequate sanitizer levels, add clarifier, run pump longer, shock pool if needed, consider solar ionizer installation.
Strong Chemical Smell Persists
Possible Causes: High combined chlorine (chloramines) from inadequate oxidation, insufficient enzyme dosage, need for shock treatment.
Solutions: Increase Softswim A dosage, shock pool with non-chlorine oxidizer, test for combined chlorine, improve ventilation for indoor pools, ensure proper water balance.
Product Doesn't Seem to Work
Possible Causes: Expired or improperly stored product, pH outside optimal range, insufficient circulation time, overwhelming contamination.
Solutions: Check product expiration and storage, test and adjust pH to 7.2-7.6, run pump minimum 24 hours, apply second dose if contamination severe, replace with fresh product if needed.
Combining with Solar Pool Ionizers
Softswim A works exceptionally well alongside solar pool ionizers to create a comprehensive, eco-friendly pool care system that minimizes chemical dependency while maintaining superior water quality naturally.
Synergistic Benefits:
- Comprehensive Water Treatment: Ionizers provide sanitization while enzymes handle organic waste breakdown
- Dramatically Reduced Chemical Use: Combined technologies can reduce chlorine needs by up to 80-90%
- Crystal-Clear Water: Dual-action approach maintains superior water clarity with minimal chemical intervention
- Natural Pool Care: Both products work with nature rather than harsh chemicals
- Gentle on Skin: Natural sanitization and enzyme action are non-irritating for sensitive skin
Application Protocol with Solar Ionizers:
- Install and maintain solar ionizer according to manufacturer's directions
- Test copper levels weekly (ideal range: 0.2-0.4 ppm)
- Add Softswim A weekly or monthly per label directions
- Maintain pH at 7.2-7.6 for optimal performance of both systems
- Clean ionizer regularly for consistent performance
- Use quality replacement kits to maintain ionizer effectiveness
Learn more about what pool ionizers do, discover how to choose the right solar ionizer, and understand the optimal time to install one.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I add Softswim A to my pool?
Add weekly during peak swimming season for pools with regular use. Monthly application is sufficient for lightly used pools or off-season maintenance. Increase frequency after pool parties, heavy use, or when waterline scum appears.
Can I use Softswim A with chlorine?
Yes! Softswim A is compatible with all sanitizer systems including chlorine, bromine, salt chlorine generators, and solar ionizers. It actually reduces chlorine demand by breaking down organic contaminants.
Will Softswim A kill algae?
Softswim A is an enzyme product that breaks down organic waste, not an algaecide or sanitizer. For algae prevention and control, use appropriate sanitizers like chlorine or solar ionizers which are effective against algae.
Is Softswim A safe for all pool types?
Yes, Softswim A is safe for all pool surfaces including plaster, vinyl, fiberglass, and tile. The natural enzyme formula is gentle and non-corrosive.
Can I swim immediately after adding Softswim A?
Yes, you can swim immediately after adding Softswim A. The enzyme formula is safe and non-irritating. However, running the filter for several hours first ensures better distribution.
Does Softswim A affect pH or water balance?
Softswim A has minimal impact on pH and water chemistry. However, always test and maintain proper water balance as part of your regular maintenance routine for optimal enzyme effectiveness.
How long does Softswim A last in the pool?
Enzymes remain active for approximately 1-2 weeks depending on water temperature, bather load, and organic contamination levels. This is why weekly application is recommended during peak season.
Can I use Softswim A with a solar pool ionizer?
Absolutely! Softswim A and solar ionizers work perfectly together for comprehensive, eco-friendly pool care with minimal chemicals.
Conclusion
By following these simple tips, you can easily use Softswim A to maintain your swimming pool naturally and effectively. With regular use, Softswim A will help keep your pool clean, healthy, and comfortable, so you can enjoy swimming all summer long without harsh chemical residue or strong odors.
Key Takeaways:
- Test water chemistry before application (pH 7.2-7.6 optimal)
- Add weekly or monthly per label directions based on pool use
- Run filter 24 hours for proper distribution
- Vacuum pool after treatment to remove decomposed waste
- Monitor water chemistry regularly and adjust as needed
- Combine with solar ionizers for eco-friendly pool care
Modern pool care combines proven natural treatments with innovative technologies. Consider pairing Softswim A with solar pool ionizers for a comprehensive, sustainable approach that dramatically reduces chemical dependency while maintaining superior water quality. Learn about keeping pools clear without harsh chemicals.
