What You Need to Know About Swimming Pool pH Balance

A swimming pool is an exciting addition to any home that, when looked after properly, can improve your health, your lifestyle, and the look of your property. To maximize your investment, maintaining the proper pH balance is crucial for both the health of the pool and the wellbeing of the swimmers, so you and your family can enjoy safe swimming for many years to come. 

This article will delve deeper into the importance of pH balance, as we explain how to test and adjust the pH levels so pool owners know exactly what is required.

Importance of pH balance

The pH level of your pool water impacts the effectiveness of chlorine, which is essential for keeping the water clean and free of bacteria. If the pH is too high or too low, the chlorine becomes less effective, leading to an increased risk of bacteria growth and algae formation. High pH levels can cause skin and eye irritation, while low pH levels can corrode pool equipment and damage the pool surface.

Testing pH levels

Testing the chemical balance of your swimming pool regularly is crucial to ensure it stays sanitized and that the water remains at the recommended pH level. The ideal pool water pH is between 7.2 to 7.8, making it safe for use.

It’s worth noting that home test kits can provide a snapshot of the water chemistry in your pool, but they don’t provide a complete analysis like a local pool professional will do. For this, they simply require a sample from the water so they can test all of the chemical levels in your pool, such as chlorine, pH, alkalinity and calcium hardness. 

Adjusting pH levels

If the pH level of your pool water is too high, an acidic chemical, such as muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate, will need to be added. If the pH level is too low, an alkaline chemical, such as sodium carbonate, is required. Handling chemicals such as these requires great care, so always follow the manufacturer’s instructions or hire an expert to help.

It is essential to add the chemicals slowly and in small amounts, testing the pH level frequently until the desired level is reached. Avoid adding too much chemical at once, as this can lead to overcorrection of the pH level, which can be difficult to fix.

Maintaining pH balance

Maintaining the proper pH balance of your pool water requires regular testing and adjustments. It is recommended to test the pH level of your pool water at least once a week, especially during peak swimming season. It is also a good idea to test the water after heavy rainfall or when there is increased pool usage.

Other factors that can affect pH levels include the type of pool surface, the type of pool chemicals used, and the water temperature. A sudden increase in temperature can cause the pH level to rise and vice versa, so it is important to monitor these factors and adjust the pH level accordingly. 

Maintaining the proper pH balance of your pool water is crucial for keeping the water clean, clear, and safe for swimming. Testing the pH level regularly and making adjustments as needed can prevent problems such as bacteria growth, algae formation, and equipment damage. By following the guidelines provided in this article, you can ensure that your pool water remains at an optimal pH level, providing a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for all.

If you are searching for a pool maintenance company in Dallas, Frisco, Prosper, or the surrounding areas, contact our experienced team at Riverbend Sandler Pools today.