What is the typical turnover rate for a public pool?

The typical turnover rate for a public pool is 6 hours or less because this timeframe is generally recommended to ensure that the water is properly filtered and sanitized to maintain safe swimming conditions. A turnover rate of 6 hours means that the entire volume of the pool water is circulated and treated by the pool's filtration system at least once every six hours.

This is important for several reasons. First, it helps in removing contaminants such as debris, dirt, and microorganisms that can accumulate in the water due to swimmer activities. Second, maintaining a frequent turnover rate supports optimal chemical balance, including chlorine and pH levels, which are essential for preventing algae growth and ensuring swimmer safety.

While shorter turnover rates may be preferred in heavily used pools to enhance water quality further, anything longer than 6 hours may not be sufficient to ensure that the pool water remains clean and safe for users. Hence, 6 hours or less is considered a standard for public pools to find a balance between safety and the operational efficiency of the filtration system.