⚖️ Understanding pH Balance in Pools: Why It Matters

Keeping your pool’s pH level balanced isn’t just chemistry—it’s the key to clean, safe, and enjoyable swimming. If your water is too acidic or too alkaline, it can cause irritation, damage equipment, and make your sanitiser less effective.

Let’s break it down so you can master pool pH like a pro. 💧

🧪 What Is pH?

pH measures how acidic or alkaline your pool water is on a scale from 0 to 14:

• pH 7 = Neutral

• Below 7 = Acidic

• Above 7 = Alkaline

👉 The ideal pH range for pool water is 7.2–7.6.

🤿 Why Is pH Balance Important?

A properly balanced pH:

• Keeps swimmers comfortable (no stinging eyes or itchy skin)

• Prevents corrosion of metal parts and pool surfaces

• Helps chlorine work effectively to kill bacteria and algae

• Extends the life of pumps, filters, and heaters

• Reduces chances of scaling and cloudy water

⚠️ What Happens When pH Is Off?

🧰 How to Test pH

Use:

• Test Strips – Quick and easy

• Liquid Test Kits – More accurate

• Digital Testers – Best for regular use

Or bring a water sample to Pool Perfectionists for a free expert test 🧪

🛠️ How to Adjust pH

If pH is too low
Use a pH Increaser (Sodium Carbonate / Soda Ash)

• Follow label directions based on your pool volume

• Add with the pump running for even distribution

If pH is too high
Use a pH Decreaser (Dry Acid / Sodium Bisulfate or Pool Acid)

• Add slowly and retest after 2–4 hours

Always adjust Total Alkalinity first if it’s outside the 80–120 ppm range—it helps stabilise pH.

💡 Pro Tips for Managing pH

• Test 2–3 times per week, especially after heavy rain or high usage

• Keep chemicals stored separately and safely

• Don’t overcorrect—small adjustments are best

• Circulate water for a few hours before retesting

🧼 Need Help?

We stock trusted pH balancers, test kits, and automated pH systems to take the guesswork out of water care. Whether you’re a DIY pool owner or want us to handle the hard stuff, Pool Perfectionists has your back.