How To Achieve A Balanced Pool Water pH
If you’re a homeowner with a pool, you’re likely familiar with the upkeep needed to ensure your pool is safe and clean to swim in. One key component to that is the pH of your pool water. It’s generally agreed that the ideal range for your pool should be somewhere between roughly 7.3 and 7.6, but what do you need to know beyond that? Read on to figure out.
What is pH?
The official meaning of pH is the potential of hydrogen. In essence, though, it impacts much of the chemistry of our water. Some things it tells us, for example, include the carbonate alkalinity types present in water, the waster balance, and chlorine speed and strength. These all contribute to the water quality (cleanliness, safety, etc.) and water balance (LSI or Langelier Saturation Index) — both of which are essential to a safe and clean swimming experience. Also keep in mind that pH levels are never set, they fluctuate based on a variety of factors. So, while the ideal range is 7.3-7.6, it may safely fluctuate slightly above and below that reading.
How to get and keep appropriate pH levels
Your pool is no different than any body of water found in nature before chemicals are added and maintained. If you neglect a pool in terms of chemical upkeep, you may notice your pool will start looking similar to a pond or natural body of water. Earth’s natural ecosystem will make for very basic water levels. But, when this is the case, the quality is severely lacking. This is where chemicals and products come into play.
There are certain suggestions to alleviate any issues based on your current situation.
● If your pool water pH is above 7.8, it’s suggested that you add an acid, such as sodium bisulphate or muriatic acid.
● If your pool water pH is below 7.2, it’s suggested that you add an alkaline base, such as sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda)
As a homeowner, you can use these tricks to keep your pool in safe and comfortable conditions even between pool service appointments. If you have further questions, you can call your local pool professional or consult the packaging of your pool chemicals.
How does pH levels effect swimmers?
Aside from cleanliness, pH levels can also impact the comfort of swimmers. If water is too basic (around 8 or higher on the pH scale, it can cause skin rashes for swimmers. Whereas, if it’s too acidic (around 7 or less on the pH scale), swimmers may experience stinging eyes as they swim.
If you’re struggling to get your pH levels correct, don’t hesitate to reach out to the professionals to help!
Need Help Balancing Your Pool’s pH? Call Pool Works!
If the pH is off in your pool water, don’t hesitate to call our team at Pool Works Pools & Spas. Our team can help assist with this issue, regardless of the cause — big or small. We will work with you to determine the solution and discuss a plan that gets your pool’s pH back in order as soon as possible. We always offer one-month free pool service after every 6 Months.
Call us today to get started towards your free month. You can reach us at (863) 967-2863 to speak with a pool cleaning expert or you can use our easy contact form.
