Raise pH in Pool
Low pH levels in a pool can be caused by rainwater and other foreign particles getting into pool and changing the chemical make-up of the water. Corrosion of metal accessories, burning of the nose and eyes, rapid chlorine reduction and itchy, dry skin and scalp can be signs of low pH levels in a pool. Low pH levels also reduce the sanitation of a pool. Regular testing and chemical treatment can help to maintain pH levels. Utilize these tips to raise pH in a pool.
Steps
- Test the pool water's pH levels at least twice per week. Use test strips manufactured for pool testing use. Record the results for later referral.
- Determine the size of your pool and the number of gallons (kiloliters) of water it holds. Measure the average depth, length, width and diameter of the pool. All linear distances must be measured in (or converted to) feet for the equation to work.
- Calculate the gallons (kiloliters) of water held in your rectangular pool. Multiply the length, width average depth and the number 7.5 together. For example, the equation for a pool that is {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} long by {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} wide by {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} deep is 10 x 6 x 5 x 7.5. The pool contains {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}.
- Use the diameter dimensions and average depth to determine the gallons (kiloliters) of water held in your round pool. Multiply the diameter times the diameter (again) times the average depth. Multiply your total by 5.9. For instance, a pool with a diameter of {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} and an average depth of {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} will have an equation that looks like this: 12 x 12 x 5 x 5.9. The total gallons contained in the pool are {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}.
- Figure the gallons of water in an oval-shaped pool. Multiply the long diameter, short diameter, average depth and 5.9 together. For example, a pool with a long diameter of {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}, a short diameter of {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} and an average depth of {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} will have this equations: 12 x 7 x 5 x 5.9. The pool contains {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}.
- Add soda ash (sodium carbonate) to raise the pH of your pool water. Soda ash may be labeled by many different manufacturer names. Ensure the base ingredient of the product is sodium carbonate. Do not use soda ash in fiberglass or vinyl lined pools.
- Circulate the water as you add the soda ash. Keep the pump running while you are adding chemicals.
- Raise pH levels that range from 7.2 to 7.4. Add 3 oz. (85 g) of soda ash for {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}; 6 oz.(170 g) for {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}; 9 oz. (255 g) for {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}; and 12 oz. (340 g) for {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}.
- Add soda ash to raise pH levels that range from 7.0 to 7.2. Pour in 4 oz. (113 g) for {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}; 8 oz. (226 g) for {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}; 12 oz. (340 g) for {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}); and 1 lb. (453 g) for {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}.
- Measure and pour in soda ash to increase pH levels that range from 6.6 to 7.0. Put in 6 oz. (170 g) for {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}; 12 oz. (340 g) for {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}; 1 lb. (453 g) for {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}; and 1.5 lb. (630 g) for {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}.
- Add the soda ash slowly to avoid splashing.
- Test your pool water after at least one hour.
- Add more soda ash if the pH ranges are still not high enough.
Tips
- Test strips also test for chlorine, alkalinity and calcium hardness. Keeping all chemicals in proper ranges can keep your pool water clean, sanitary, and safe.
