How to Increase Swimming Pool pH

Maintaining the right pH level in your swimming pool is essential for water quality, swimmer comfort, and the longevity of pool equipment. A low pH level can lead to corrosive water, which may damage pool surfaces and irritate swimmers' skin and eyes. If you're facing low pH levels in your pool, working with a professional swimming pool builder can help you understand how to effectively increase and stabilize it. With their expertise, you can keep your pool water balanced and ensure it remains safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Understanding pH in Pool Water

The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. In swimming pools, the ideal pH level should be between 7.4 and 7.6. When pH levels drop below this range, the water becomes acidic, causing problems such as:

  • Eye and skin irritation for swimmers

  • Corrosion of metal components like ladders and handrails

  • Damage to pool liners and surfaces

  • Reduced effectiveness of chlorine, leading to algae and bacteria growth

Causes of Low pH in a Pool

Several factors can contribute to low pH levels in swimming pools, including:

  1. Heavy Rainfall – Rainwater is naturally acidic and can dilute the pool's pH level.

  2. High Bather Load – Increased use of the pool introduces body oils, sweat, and other contaminants, which can lower pH.

  3. Chemical Imbalance – Adding too many acidic chemicals like chlorine tablets (which contain stabilizers) can decrease pH levels.

  4. Source Water – Some municipal water supplies have lower pH levels, which affect the pool when refilled.

  5. Poor Maintenance – Inconsistent water testing and lack of chemical balancing can lead to unstable pH levels.

Read More: How Much Acid to Add to Pool and Balance pH Levels

How to Raise the pH in Your Pool

If you find that your pool's pH is too low, there are several methods to bring it back to the ideal range.

1. Use Soda Ash (Sodium Carbonate)

Soda ash is the most common and effective way to raise pool pH.

  • Dosage: Add approximately 6 ounces of soda ash per 10,000 gallons of pool water to raise the pH by 0.2 units.

  • Application: Dissolve the soda ash in a bucket of pool water before adding it to the pool or sprinkle it directly into the deep end.

  • Circulation: Turn on the pool pump to help distribute the chemical evenly.

  • Testing: Wait at least 6 hours and test the water again to determine if further adjustments are needed.

2. Use Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)

While baking soda is primarily used to raise total alkalinity, it can also slightly increase pH.

  • Dosage: Add 1.5 pounds of baking soda per 10,000 gallons of water to raise alkalinity by 10 ppm.

  • Application: Dissolve it in a bucket and pour it along the pool’s perimeter.

  • Effectiveness: If pH is significantly low, soda ash is a better choice.

3. Aerate the Water

Aeration naturally raises pH without affecting total alkalinity.

  • Methods: Use water features like fountains, waterfalls, or air pumps to increase oxygen levels in the water.

  • Time Frame: This process is gradual and best used alongside chemical adjustments.

4. Check and Balance Alkalinity

Total alkalinity (TA) acts as a buffer for pH. If alkalinity is too low (below 80 ppm), pH fluctuations become more common.

  • Solution: Add baking soda to raise TA, ensuring it stays between 80-120 ppm.

  • Testing: Regularly check alkalinity levels, as adjusting it can also help stabilize pH.

Preventing Future pH Drops

Once you've corrected your pool’s pH, maintaining it within the ideal range is crucial. Here are some tips:

  • Test Water Regularly – Use a test kit or test strips at least twice a week to monitor pH and alkalinity levels.

  • Balance Chemicals Properly – Avoid overusing acidic chlorine tablets, and always follow manufacturer instructions for pool chemicals.

  • Control Rainwater Impact – Cover the pool before a storm to minimize acidic water from entering the pool.

  • Ensure Proper Circulation – Keep the pool pump and filter running efficiently to distribute chemicals evenly.

  • Limit Organic Contaminants – Encourage swimmers to rinse off before entering the pool to reduce oils and sweat affecting water balance.

Conclusion

Maintaining the right pH level in your swimming pool is crucial for water clarity, equipment longevity, and swimmer comfort. Experienced swimming pool contractors recommend using soda ash, baking soda, aeration, and proper alkalinity control to effectively raise and stabilize your pool’s pH. Regular testing and preventive maintenance, guided by professional contractors, will ensure your pool remains in excellent condition throughout the season.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable swimming experience without worrying about low pH issues!

 

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