⚖️ 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?
| pH Level | Effects |
|---|---|
| Too Low (<7.2) | Corrosion of pool surfaces, itchy eyes, damaged equipment |
| Too High (>7.6) | Cloudy water, reduced chlorine efficiency, scaling, algae growth |
🧰 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.