How To Raise & Lower pH in Your Pool: Three Options

Maintaining the proper pH balance in your swimming pool is crucial to keep the water clear, safe, and comfortable for swimming. The recommended pH range for a swimming pool is between 7.2 and 7.8. If the pH level in your pool is too high, it can cause scaling on pool surfaces and reduce the effectiveness of chlorine. In this article, we'll explore three ways to lower  & rasise the pH in a swimming pool.

Lower pH in Your Pool

1. Add Acid

Adding acid is the most common way to lower the pH in a swimming pool. The most commonly used acid is muriatic acid, which can be purchased at a pool supply store. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and add the acid slowly, testing the water frequently until the pH is within the recommended range. It's important to wear protective gloves and goggles when adding acid to your pool.

1. Use Sodium Bisulfate

Sodium bisulfate is another option for lowering pH in a swimming pool. It's available in a powder form and is easy to use. Simply add the required amount of sodium bisulfate to the pool, following the manufacturer's instructions. It's important to distribute the powder evenly across the surface of the pool and to avoid adding too much at once.

1. Use a pH Reducer

A pH reducer is a chemical compound designed specifically to lower pH in a swimming pool. It's a convenient and easy-to-use option for those who don't want to handle acid or sodium bisulfate. Simply add the required amount of pH reducer to the pool, following the manufacturer's instructions. It's important to test the water frequently to ensure that the pH is within the recommended range.

Raising the pH in your swimming pool

If the pH level in your pool is too low, it can cause irritation to swimmers' eyes and skin, and reduce the effectiveness of chlorine. In this article, we'll explore three ways to raise pH in a swimming pool.

1. Add Baking Soda

Baking soda is a common household item that can be used to raise pH in a swimming pool. To raise the pH level by 0.1, add 1.5 pounds of baking soda per 10,000 gallons of water. Simply add the baking soda to the pool water and allow it to circulate for a few hours. Test the pH level frequently to ensure that it's within the recommended range.

1. Use Soda Ash

Soda ash is a chemical compound that can be used to raise pH in a swimming pool. To raise the pH level by 0.1, add 6 ounces of soda ash per 10,000 gallons of water. Dissolve the soda ash in a bucket of water before adding it to the pool. Avoid adding too much at once, and test the pH level frequently to ensure that it's within the recommended range.

1. Increase Aeration

Increasing aeration is another way to raise pH in a swimming pool. This can be done by running your pool's waterfall, fountain, or jets. This increases the amount of oxygen in the water, which can raise the pH level. Be sure to test the pH level frequently and adjust the aeration as needed.

In conclusion, maintaining the proper pH balance in your swimming pool is crucial for the health and safety of swimmers, as well as the longevity of pool surfaces and equipment. Adding acid, using sodium bisulfate, or using a pH reducer are three effective ways to lower pH in a swimming pool. When adding any chemicals to your pool, it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and to wear protective gear to ensure your safety.