There are a few key elements that play a role in the operations of a swimming pool, and chemical balance is one that it pays to keep an eye on. One common example is your pool’s pH level, and a frequent need from some pool owners is to lower their pH level – why are pH levels important, and how do you lower pH in a swimming pool if your levels are too high?
At Packman’s Pools, our swimming pool contractors are here to help with a huge range of swimming pool design, construction and maintenance around Salt Lake City and nearby parts of Utah – including help with chemical levels and pH balance. Here are some basics on what pH levels are and why they matter in your swimming pool, plus how to lower them if you find they are too high.
What is Swimming Pool pH?
For those just learning about pool chemistry, pH refers to the level of acidity or alkalinity in your swimming pool’s water. It is measured on a scale from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral – anything below 7 is considered acidic and anything above 7 is considered alkaline. Most experts recommend keeping your pool’s pH levels between 7.2 and 7.8 for optimal safety and comfort.
Why Does Swimming Pool pH Matter?
Maintaining proper pH levels in your swimming pool is essential for several reasons:
- Comfort: When the pH level of your pool water is too low (acidic), it can cause skin and eye irritation for swimmers.
- Safety: Low pH levels can also damage pool equipment and surfaces, leading to expensive repairs.
- Sanitation: If the pH level is too high (alkaline), it can reduce the effectiveness of chlorine or other sanitizers, allowing harmful bacteria and algae to thrive in your pool.
- Water Balance: pH levels are closely tied to the overall water balance of your pool. Imbalanced pH levels can lead to cloudy or discolored water, making it less inviting for swimmers.
How to Test and Adjust Your Pool’s pH Levels
To ensure your pool’s pH levels are within the recommended range, you should test them regularly using a pool testing kit. These kits typically include strips or drops that change color when exposed to your pool water. The color corresponds to a pH level, which you can then compare to a chart provided with the kit.
If your pH levels are too low (below 7.2), you will need to add a basic substance such as sodium bicarbonate or soda ash to raise them. If they are too high (above 7.8), you will need to add an acidic substance like muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate to lower them.
Following Manufacturer Steps
If you find that your pool’s pH levels are too low, this could lead to issues like irritated eyes, corroded metal parts and chlorine instability. Luckily, remedying it simply requires following a few steps recommended by your pool’s manufacturer. These typically include adding the necessary amount of sodium bicarbonate or soda ash to increase pH levels, and then waiting for at least six hours before retesting and making any additional adjustments as needed.
Alternative Methods
Some pool owners may prefer alternative methods for managing their pool’s pH levels, such as using natural products like baking soda or vinegar. These options can be effective, but it is important to carefully measure and adjust the amounts used to avoid overcorrecting or causing imbalances in other chemical levels.
At Packman’s Pools, our swimming pool contractors are here to help clients around SLC and nearby parts of Utah with all their swimming pool needs, including maintenance themes like pH balance and more. Contact us today to learn more about our range of services and how we can help you keep your pool in top condition all year round.
