As we know, the most critical aspect of any pool is to maintain the pH levels within the recommended range. This will ensure the effectiveness of whatever sanitisation method is being used to keep the water crystal clear, as well as protecting the surface of your pool and allowing you to have an enjoyable pool owning experience.
By using the NKD-pH Controller, the pH will be maintained by having diluted acid added to the pool water daily rather than having to add it manually yourself at least once a week.
The dosing rate of the NKD-pH is based on an algorithm and is designed to dose diluted acid into the pool each day based on a preset time in accordance with the pool size. We recommend monitoring your pH on a regular basis and making adjustments as necessary.
The pH controller will be activated each day when T1 starts and will run for the preset time based on the pool size.
If pH levels are high, longer running times will be required, and similarly if levels are low, run times will need to be decreased. Every swimming pool is different depending on the set up and environment.
To change dosing times simply press [OK] for the Main Menu within the Naked
Control Unit and using the [+] and [-] buttons select M15 pH Control.
Acid should be diluted to an Acid/Water ratio of 1:3.
pH Controller run time
As every pool's environment and characteristics that will effect the pH level are different, it is important to understand that although the acid dosing times are calculated using the pool volume, it may be necessary to increase or decrease the dosing time depending on the demand of your particular situation. In particular during the curing stage of a new concrete pool, the pH will normally be sitting on the higher end of the scale so it will need more acid to be added to maintain the pH within range.
During the cooler months when there is less demand on the pool it may be necessary to reduce the pH controller run time to avoid the pH dropping too low as typically acid demand is less while the water temperature is cooler.
The run time can be adjusted in the Naked control unit in Menu 15 - pH Control Mode - pH1 Run time.
Acid demand and priming
There may be times when you need to manually dose acid and this can be done through the Naked control unit Menu 15 - pH Control Mode - pH2 Demand or Prime. The default amount is 100ml but you can enter the amount of acid required in millilitres up to 500ml. The acid pump will then dose the required amount of acid entered and once complete will return to the run time in pH1.
Please note the amount entered in the demand dose is for straight acid and you will not need to calculate the amount of diluted acid necessary. The pH Controller will calculate and dose the correct amount of diluted acid solution from your dosing drum to bring about the required change in pH.
This demand function is also used to prime the acid line upon installation or after changing the acid drum once it is empty.
Maintaining the pH Controller
It is important to understand a certain amount of owner maintenance and care is required to keep your investment operating properly. We recommend the following basic maintenance and further information can be found on the Naked Pools App.
1. Injection Point on Injector Valve
Check the injection point periodically by inspecting the Clear Injection Tee Piece for build-up of solid matter at the end of the PVC tubing. While unscrewing the BLACK lock nut, take care not to lose the rubber O-ring.
2. Lubricate Squeeze Tube
Lubricate the pump squeeze tube every 3-6 months. Use a silicone-based lubricant only as petroleum-based lubricants will cause damage to the tube and rollers.
3. Replace Squeeze Tube
Depending on usage, the squeeze tube may need replacing after 1-2 years of use. Before replacing, ensure that the suction and injection tubes are empty. We recommend using the original sized Tygon® Norprene® tube as incorrect sizing will damage the unit. It is important to also check the condition of the roller as these may be need replacing at the same time.
To replace the squeeze tube, please follow the instructions included with the replacement kit, or watch this guide on Replacing the NKD-ph Controller Squeeze Tube.
Please refer to the Installation and Setup Guide attached to this article for more information or if you have any questions please CONTACT US and we will be happy to help.