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Writer's pictureCarly Pugliese

Why are pH and Alkalinity so important to your pool?

Updated: Jul 11, 2019

It's easy to ask yourself if you really need to treat the pH and alkalinity in your pool water, but you do! Here's why.


Low pH:

- Erodes grout and plaster.

- Vinyl liners wrinkle and become brittle.

- Water corrodes metals on hand rails, ladders, lights, and heat exchangers.

- Burns eyes and skin sometimes causing rash and ear infection.




High pH:

- When pH reaches 8.2, chlorine becomes 50% less powerful at minimum.

- Leaves calcium deposited on all pool surfaces, especially at the waterline.

- Water becomes more susceptible to algae and cloudiness.



Low Alkalinity:

- Etches plaster surfaces.

- Vinyl liners become inflexible and brittle.

- Corrodes metals on handrails, ladders, lights, and heat exchangers.

- Quick fluctuation in pH levels also known as the pH bounce.


High Alkalinity:

- Stains form on pool surfaces.

- Difficulty adjusting pH level.

- Water becomes more susceptible to cloudiness.


Calcium Staining on Waterline

**Pool water should have a pH level of 7.4-7.6 and an alkalinity level of 125-150ppm**


 

If you're not sure what you're pH and alkalinity levels are, come into the store with a water sample. (Remember to go elbow deep away from returns.) We can test your water and recommend the chemicals to help you balance your pool perfectly!

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