How to Lower pH Level in a Swimming Pool?

Swimming pools are designed to give you an endearing calmness. But what if they result in irritating skin and burning eyes? If you, your guests, or your loved ones have had such complaints right after using your swimming pool, there is a high chance you have a high pH level problem in your pool water.

You can use an automatic chemical dosing system like the Rolachem RP9, which automatically measures & maintains the pH levels in the pool. Or, you can try the following methods to help maintain the balance.

How to Test the pH Level of Your Pool?

Testing the pH level of your pool is crucial in maintaining its water quality. If you have been experiencing any of the following issues, there is a high probability that your pool has high pH levels:

• Your guests and loved ones have complained about dehydrated skin or a burning sensation in their eyes after swimming.
• The water in your pool appears cloudy and lacks transparency upon close inspection.
• Your pool pipes and filters frequently get clogged, and your maintenance equipment only lasts for a short time.
• You need to use increasing amounts of chlorine each time you clean your pool.
• The pool surface has been eroding for a while.

To effectively lower the pH level in your swimming pool, it's crucial to start with accurate testing. Invest in a high-quality pool test kit with fresh reagents from a verified seller. This will allow you to determine the current pH level and ensure you use the appropriate chemicals in the correct quantities. Before adding chemicals, always test the pH level to establish a baseline.

The ideal pH level should be between 7.2 and 7.6. A pH level of 7 is considered neutral, but once it surpasses 8, people using the pool will start experiencing skin irritation.

Chemicals to control the pH level in the pool

Controlling the pH level in your swimming pool is crucial for maintaining water balance. One effective way to lower the pH level is by using dry acid or liquid acid. Here are some steps to follow:

Dry Acid (Sodium Bisulfate)

• Carefully read the instructions and dissolve the dry acid in water as directed.
• Pour the dissolved solution into the deepest part of the pool.
• Use a pool brush to remove any clumps.
• Allow the acid to dissipate into the pool water for 10-15 minutes.
• Test the pH level again after 4-5 hours to ensure it has been adjusted appropriately.

Liquid Acid (Hydrochloric Acid or Muriatic Acid)

• Put on safety gloves and goggles, and carefully read and follow all instructions.
• Evenly pour the liquid acid around the edge of the pool, avoiding splashing or pouring outside the pool.
• Allow the acid to mix with the pool water.
• Test the pH levels again in 4-6 hours to confirm the desired level has been achieved.
• Remember always to handle pool chemicals cautiously, following all safety instructions provided by the manufacturer. Regularly monitoring and adjusting the pH level of your pool water is essential for keeping it balanced and safe for swimming.
• Consult a qualified pool professional if you need help lowering the pH level properly.

Best Practices to Avoid Extreme pH Levels

Maintaining proper pH levels in your swimming pool is essential for the health and safety of swimmers. Here are some best practices you can adopt to lower high pH levels effectively:

• Test the pH level at least once a week. If you swim daily, consider testing the pH level daily to ensure it remains balanced.
• Conduct a pH test after a party or a stormy day, as these events can impact the pH levels in your pool.
• Follow the recommended guidelines by the Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Victoria and do not exceed 160 ppm of total alkalinity.
• Clean the pool regularly to prevent debris and contaminants from affecting the pH levels.
• Test the pumps and other parts of the pool frequently to ensure they are functioning properly and not contributing to pH fluctuations.
• Consider using innovative solutions like Rolachem RC1, which semi-automatically adds a suitable amount of acid to your pool to help maintain a balanced pH level with less manual effort.

By following these health practices, you can effectively lower pH levels in your swimming pool and create a safe and enjoyable swimming environment for everyone to enjoy.

Bottom Line

Swimming pools with high pH levels are a common issue that can be effectively managed using either dry or liquid acid. It's crucial to use reliable testing tools, proper cleaning equipment, and maintenance devices to ensure the pool maintenance is adequate and total alkalinity levels do not disrupt the pH level of your pool.