How to Raise pH in a Pool

The water in your pool is a complex balance of chemicals. If the pH of your pool drops below 7, it can wreak havoc on your pool and result in costly maintenance.

This post will cover what pH is exactly and why it’s important for pool chemistry. In addition, we’ll dig into what causes low pH and share a few different solutions on how you can raise it.

What is pH in pool water?

The pH in pool water refers to the acidity or alkalinity of your pool water. This measurement is based on a scale from 0-14, with 7 being neutral. A lower pH indicates acidic water, while a higher pH indicates more alkaline water.

Maintaining proper pH levels is critical for many aspects of pool care. For example, pH affects:

• The overall comfort of swimmers
• The efficiency of your pool’s filtration system
• How well pool chemicals work
• The lifespan of your pool equipment

Why is pH important in a pool?

pH directly impacts how well your chlorine works. If the pH in your pool is too high or too low, your chlorine will be less effective. This means your pool will be more susceptible to algae and bacteria growth.

In addition, the pH of your pool water can affect the comfort of swimmers. Swimmers may experience eye irritation, skin dryness, and scalp itchiness if the pH is not properly balanced.

What causes low pH in a pool?

There are a few common reasons why your pool’s pH may be low. For example, if you have hard water or rainwater runoff in your pool, these can both cause the pH to dip below 7.

Low pH can also be caused by overgrowth of algae and bacteria. As these organisms grow, they release waste products that lower the pH of your pool. If you notice an increase in algae or bacteria growth, it’s important to address this as soon as possible.

What is the best way to raise pH in a pool?

Commercial Products

There are a few different options available for raising the pH in your pool. The easiest option is to use a granular or liquid pool pH increaser. These products can be added directly to your pool water and will quickly restore proper pH levels.

To prevent future imbalances, you may also want to invest in a pool chemical controller. This device will automatically add pool chemicals to your water, keeping your pH levels in check. This is a great option for busy pool owners who don’t have the time to constantly monitor pH levels.

Naturally with Baking Soda

If you want to go the cheaper route, the next best way to raise your pool’s pH is by adding a few simple household ingredients. Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a great choice for raising pH levels. Just add one pound of baking soda per 10,000 gallons of pool water to raise the pH by 0.2 points.

Ultimately, there are many different ways to raise your pool’s pH. Whether you choose to use a commercial pH increaser or a simple household ingredient, it’s critical that you take action if your pH levels drop below 7. By keeping your pool’s pH in check, you can ensure a safe and comfortable swimming environment for everyone.

Summary

Maintaining proper pH levels in your pool is essential for many reasons. Not only does it affect the comfort of swimmers, but it also impacts the efficiency of your filtration system and the lifespan of your pool equipment.

If the pH in your pool drops below 7, there are a few different ways you can raise it. The easiest option is to use a commercial pH increaser, but you can also add baking soda to your pool water.

By taking action to raise your pool’s pH, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for everyone.