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Managing pH Levels for Safe Pools

Apr 17, 2025

The Dangers of Low and High pH Levels in Pools

Importance of pH Levels

  • Proper pH levels are crucial for pool maintenance and safety.
  • Incorrect pH levels can harm swimmers and damage pool equipment.
  • Optimal pH levels range between 7.2 and 7.8.

High pH Levels

  • pH > 7.8 indicates high alkalinity, making water softer.
  • Causes of high pH levels:
    • Increased temperature
    • Excessive stabilizer
    • Algae presence
    • Use of strong liquid chlorine
    • Calcium or lithium hypochlorite chlorine
  • Effects of high pH levels:
    • Ineffective chlorine, leading to algae and bacteria
    • Eye irritations and skin allergies for swimmers
    • Accelerated wear of clothing and goggles
  • Solution:
    • Add dry or muriatic acid
    • Retest and adjust as necessary

Low pH Levels

  • Low pH results in more acidic water.
  • Dangers of low pH:
    • Corrosion of pool equipment
    • Skin, eye, and nose irritation for swimmers
    • Dry and itchy skin and hair
    • Corrosion of metal surfaces and components like ladders, rails, pumps, filters, and heaters
  • Solution:
    • Add baking soda (1.5 lbs per 10,000 gallons of water)

Poolsmith Solutions

  • Provides a reliable pH balancing system without dangerous acids.
  • Uses a unique CO2-based pH water system.
  • Offers services for maintaining optimal pH levels in pools.
  • Encourages contacting Poolsmith for appointments and checking pricing options.