Maintaining balance is crucial for both your well-being and your pool’s health. The pH level of your pool water is a prime example. Generally, the ideal range for pH is between 7.4 and 7.8. In a previous article, we discussed how to increase the pH if it’s too low. In this article, we’ll cover ways to decrease pH if it becomes excessively high. Don’t wait, take action now!
If you are experiencing irritated eyes and skin, hazy water, algae growth, and damaged pool components, it could be due to high pH levels in your pool. To lower the pH levels, you can add either muriatic acid or a pH decreaser, such as sodium bisulfate, to your pool. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral, below 7 being acidic, and above 7 being basic. A properly balanced pool pH should be around 7.4 to 7.6.
How to lower ph in pool?
The majority of pH decreasers available in the market, including pH Down and pH negative, are made from sodium bisulfate, which is also known as dry acid. Although more expensive than muriatic acid, they are considered safer and less corrosive to use.
1. Test pH and alkalinity levels of your water
To start the process of lowering pH in your pool, it’s important to test the pH and alkalinity levels of your water. This will help you determine how much pH decreaser you’ll need to use. If your total alkalinity is also high, don’t worry – the pH decreaser will also lower it.
2. Measure the appropriate amount of pH decreaser
It’s crucial to measure out the appropriate amount of pH decreaser according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s better to use less and add more later if needed, rather than adding too much at once. Adding too much can cause further imbalances in your pool’s chemistry, so it’s important to be cautious.
3. Fill Your Pool With The pH Decreaser
Once you have measured out the correct amount of pH decreaser, you can directly pour it into the deepest part of your pool near the return jets while the pump is running continuously. Don’t pour it into the skimmer. If you have an above-ground pool, you may need to use a pool brush to help stir the water and distribute the chemical evenly.
4. Let the pH Reducer Dissolve
After pouring the pH reducer into your pool, give it some time to dissolve and circulate throughout the water using the filtration system. If there are any undissolved clumps, gently scrape them off the pool surfaces as they may cause damage.
5. Check the Pool Water and Repeat as Needed
While it’s not mandatory, you should test your pool water again within 24 hours. If the pH and total alkalinity levels are within the acceptable range, you’ve successfully balanced your pool water. If they’re still high, repeat the process until you achieve the desired levels.
Conclusion
With the help of this detailed tutorial, you can learn how to lower the pH of your pool. To ensure a safe swimming experience, learn the significance of keeping proper pH levels, the various chemicals you can use, and how to test and monitor the water.