Having a pool in your backyard, especially in the summertime, is a luxury. Although, the downside of having a pool is the maintenance that comes with it. Part of this maintenance is balancing the various chemicals your pool requires. A common problem with pools is having the alkalinity reach levels that are too high. In this article, we will explain how to lower alkalinity pool wise, what the ideal alkalinity range is, and the consequences of leaving alkalinity too high.
4 Ways How To Lower Alkalinity Pool
If you are experiencing high alkalinity in your pool, there are several measures you can take. Each of these can be done separately or in combination. If you try all 5 of these methods and your high alkalinity still persists, you may need to call a pool professional. However, most of the time, these ways are plenty to lower your alkalinity.
1. Adjust The pH Lower: The most reliable way to lower alkalinity in your pool is to lower the pH level. This is the first measure you should take if you discover high alkalinity. You can do this by adding a pH reducer. These items generally contain muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate.
2. Increase Circulation: Increasing the circulation in your pool can help to lower the alkalinity levels. Alkalinity may vary by area of your pool so stirring up the water may bring overall alkalinity to a lower amount. Increasing the circulation can be done by running your pool pump for longer periods of time. If your pool pump duration is already long, consider adding additional pumps.
3. Add Diluted Acid Solution: You can add a diluted acid solution directly to your pool water to lower the alkalinity. Make sure to use an acid solution that is specifically designed for pools and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Vacuum the Pool: Vacuuming your pool can help to remove some of the excess alkalinity. Make sure that you vacuum the entire pool, including the walls and floor. If you do not have a robotic pool cleaner, you will need to brush the pool walls yourself. Suction and pressure side pool cleaners do not effectively vacuum the pool walls.
What Is The Ideal Alkalinity In A Pool?
The ideal alkalinity level for a pool is between 80-120 ppm (parts per million). Alkalinity acts as a buffer to prevent pH levels from fluctuating. If you suspect you have high alkalinity, get an alkalinity checker and test your pool.
2 Reasons Why To Lower Alkalinity In The Pool
When you think of the reasons to lower alkalinity, think preventative maintenance and a better swimming experience. Lowering alkalinity in a pool is important to help maintain a safe and comfortable pH level. Maintaining a good pH level helps keep chlorine from becoming overactive and damaging pool surfaces. Lowering alkalinity also helps to prevent pH bounce, which can cause cloudy water and irritate swimmers’ eyes and skin. Finally, lowering alkalinity helps to keep calcium levels in check, preventing scaling and staining on pool surfaces.
How To Lower Alkalinity Pool Summary
There are many ways to lower alkalinity in your pool. Always start by lowering the pH level of your pool. Additional ideas include running your pool pump longer, adding in an acid solution and vacuuming your pool more regularly. Alkalinity being too high can cause discomfort for swimmer’s skin/eyes and deterioration of your pool’s plaster/tile. Strive for an alkalinity level of 80-120 parts per million.
