Practice Test Geeks(CAT) Certified Aquatic Technicians Practice Test
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Aquatic Technicians Skills and Knowledge Areas Flashcards

7 cards from real CAT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

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  1. A pool's total alkalinity reads 60 ppm. What is the most likely consequence if left uncorrected?

    Answer: pH will fluctuate widely and be difficult to control

    Low total alkalinity (below 80 ppm) causes pH to bounce dramatically, making water chemistry difficult to manage.

  2. Which type of filter media requires backwashing to clean and uses the finest filtration of the three common types?

    Answer: Diatomaceous Earth (DE)

    DE filters provide the finest filtration (3–5 microns) and are cleaned by backwashing, after which fresh DE must be added.

  3. When shocking a pool with calcium hypochlorite, a technician should always:

    Answer: Pre-dissolve the shock in a bucket of pool water before adding

    Pre-dissolving calcium hypochlorite prevents bleaching of the pool surface and ensures even distribution.

  4. A residential pool pump is running but flow rate has dropped significantly. The filter pressure gauge reads normal. What is the most likely cause?

    Answer: Worn pump impeller or clogged pump strainer basket

    A clogged pump strainer basket or worn impeller restricts water intake, reducing flow rate while filter pressure may appear unaffected.

  5. What is the recommended free chlorine level (in ppm) for a residential swimming pool according to standard industry guidelines?

    Answer: 1.0–3.0 ppm

    The standard recommended free chlorine range for residential pools is 1.0–3.0 ppm to ensure effective sanitation without irritation.

  6. Cyanuric acid (CYA) is used in outdoor pools primarily to:

    Answer: Stabilize chlorine against UV degradation from sunlight

    Cyanuric acid bonds with free chlorine, protecting it from UV degradation and extending its effectiveness in outdoor pools.

  7. A pool technician notices a strong chlorine odor and swimmer eye irritation despite a free chlorine reading of 3.0 ppm. What is the most likely cause?

    Answer: High concentration of chloramines (combined chlorine)

    Chloramines (combined chlorine) cause the harsh odor and irritation associated with 'too much chlorine' — the fix is breakpoint chlorination, not reduction.