Chemical Dosing Problems
Fix automatic chemical feeder and dosing system issues
Common Chemical Dosing Issues
⚗️ Chemical Problems
- • Inconsistent chlorine levels
- • pH won't stay balanced
- • Over/under dosing chemicals
- • Chemical crystallization
🔧 Equipment Issues
- • Pump not working
- • Sensor reading incorrectly
- • Clogged injection points
- • Control system errors
Quick Answer
Chemical dosing problems typically involve inaccurate sensors, clogged pumps, or programming issues. Start by testing water chemistry manually and comparing to system readings. Check that chemical containers have adequate supply and pumps are operating. Clean or calibrate pH and ORP probes monthly. Look for crystallized chemicals in tubing or injection points. Most dosing issues are sensor-related and can be resolved with proper cleaning and calibration.
Types of Pool Chemical Feeders
Automatic Chlorinators
Function: Maintain consistent chlorine levels automatically
Types: Tablet feeders, liquid chlorine pumps, salt systems
Control: Timer-based or ORP sensor controlled
Common Issues: Inconsistent dosing, sensor drift, clogged lines
Pro Tip: ORP sensors need monthly cleaning for accuracy
pH Controllers
Function: Automatically adjust pH levels
Types: Acid pumps (muriatic acid), CO2 systems
Control: pH probe with feedback control
Common Issues: Probe fouling, over-correction, pump failure
Pro Tip: pH probes are sensitive - handle carefully during cleaning
Integrated Systems
Function: Complete chemical management systems
Types: IntelliChem, Sense and Dispense, AquaPure
Control: Multiple sensors with automation integration
Common Issues: Complex calibration, multiple sensor failures
Pro Tip: Professional setup ensures optimal performance
Manual Feeders
Function: Simple chemical dispensing devices
Types: Floating dispensers, erosion feeders, tablet feeders
Control: Manual adjustment of flow or dissolution rate
Common Issues: Inconsistent dosing, weather sensitivity
Pro Tip: Regular checking needed to maintain proper levels
Chemical Dosing System Diagnosis
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Check Chemical Levels and Flow
Test water chemistry and verify water is flowing through chemical feeder.
Inspect Chemical Supply
Check that chemical containers have adequate supply and no crystallization.
⚠️ Warning: Never mix different types of chemicals
Test Pump and Injection Systems
Verify chemical pumps are operating and injection points are clear.
Calibrate Sensors and Probes
Test pH and ORP probe accuracy against manual test results.
⚠️ Warning: Use fresh calibration solutions for accurate results
Check Control Panel Settings
Verify dosing schedules, setpoints, and system programming.
Inspect Tubing and Connections
Look for kinked tubing, loose connections, or chemical crystallization.
⚠️ Warning: Replace tubing annually to prevent failures
Chemical Safety Warning
- •Never mix different types of pool chemicals
- •Always wear protective equipment when handling chemicals
- •Store chemicals in original containers in cool, dry place
- •Keep acids and bases separate to prevent dangerous reactions
- •Flush eyes immediately if chemical contact occurs
Common Dosing Problems & Solutions
Chlorine Levels Won't Stabilize
Most Likely Cause:
ORP probe dirty or miscalibrated
Quick Check:
Test chlorine manually and compare to system reading
Solution:
Clean and recalibrate ORP probe with fresh solutions
pH Keeps Drifting High or Low
Most Likely Cause:
pH probe contamination or chemical depletion
Quick Check:
Test pH manually and check chemical container levels
Solution:
Clean probe, refill chemicals, recalibrate system
Chemical Pump Not Working
Most Likely Cause:
Clogged tubing or crystallized chemicals
Quick Check:
Look for white crystal buildup in tubes or injection points
Solution:
Flush lines with water, replace clogged tubing
Erratic Chemical Readings
Most Likely Cause:
Poor water circulation or sensor placement
Quick Check:
Verify pump is running and water is circulating well
Solution:
Improve circulation, relocate sensors to better flow area
Brand-Specific Chemical Systems
Pentair IntelliChem
Features: Dual probe system with automation integration
Calibration: Built-in calibration routines
Common Issues: Flow cell clogging, probe drift
Maintenance: Monthly probe cleaning, annual flow cell service
Tip: Use only Pentair calibration solutions for best results
Hayward Sense and Dispense
Features: Smart chemistry with app monitoring
Calibration: App-guided calibration process
Common Issues: WiFi connectivity, probe accuracy
Maintenance: Self-cleaning probes, chemical refill alerts
Tip: Use Hayward chemicals for warranty compliance
Jandy AquaPure
Features: Simple pH and chlorine control
Calibration: Manual calibration with test solutions
Common Issues: Pump reliability, sensor fouling
Maintenance: Regular pump priming, probe cleaning
Tip: Prime chemical pumps weekly to prevent air locks
Generic/Aftermarket
Features: Basic chemical control systems
Calibration: Manual adjustment typically required
Common Issues: Limited diagnostics, compatibility
Maintenance: More frequent calibration needed
Tip: Consider upgrading to integrated systems for better reliability
Chemical Dosing System Repair Costs
Chemical Feeder Repair Costs
🔧 DIY Attempt
⚠️ Risks:
- • Chemical exposure from improper handling
- • Expensive probe damage from incorrect cleaning
- • Over/under dosing from calibration errors
- • Voiding equipment warranties
👷 Professional Service
✅ Includes:
- • Complete system diagnosis and testing
- • Professional probe cleaning and calibration
- • Chemical line flushing and repair
- • Programming optimization
- • Chemical safety training and documentation
💰 Value Tip: CoOpPools offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Our worker-owned model means fair prices and invested service.
Maintain Chemical Dosing Systems
Prevention Tips
Regular Probe Maintenance
Clean and calibrate pH and ORP probes monthly for accurate readings
Quality Chemical Storage
Store chemicals in cool, dry place. Replace before expiration dates
System Cleaning Schedule
Flush chemical lines monthly to prevent crystallization buildup
Monitor Chemical Consumption
Track usage patterns to identify system problems early
Professional Calibration
Have system professionally calibrated twice yearly for accuracy
🏊 Pro Tip: Regular professional maintenance prevents 90% of pool problems.Get your maintenance quote today
Need Professional Help?
Our chemical automation specialists can calibrate your dosing systems, replace sensors, and optimize chemical usage. We ensure your automatic feeders maintain perfect water chemistry while minimizing chemical costs and equipment wear.
Mention "chemical dosing issues" when calling for faster service
Related Pool Problems
Related Pool Problems
Sensor Malfunctions
Often RelatedpH and ORP sensor problems affecting dosing
Salt System Problems
Often RelatedChlorine generation affecting chemical balance
High pH Issues
Sometimes RelatedChemical dosing system response to pH problems
💡 Did You Know? Pool problems often occur together.Chemical Dosing Problems can lead to or be caused by these related issues. Understanding the connections helps prevent future problems.