The process of elevating cyanuric acid (CYA) levels in swimming pool water involves introducing a chemical stabilizer to mitigate chlorine degradation from sunlight. This stabilizer, also known as conditioner, protects chlorine molecules, extending their sanitizing effectiveness. An example is the addition of stabilized chlorine products, such as dichlor or trichlor, or the direct application of CYA in granular or liquid form.
Maintaining adequate CYA concentration is crucial for effective pool sanitization. Without sufficient CYA, chlorine dissipates rapidly, necessitating frequent additions and potentially leading to ineffective algae control and increased chemical costs. Historically, CYA has been recognized as a vital component in maintaining water quality and minimizing chlorine demand in outdoor pools exposed to ultraviolet radiation.