How to Lower pH Level in a Pool? — Ensure a Safe and Fun Swimming Area (2021)

The pH level of your swimming pool can go up and down. Getting it back to a balanced state may be challenging but doable.

Today, we'll teach you the easy ways on how to lower pH in pool by yourself.

How to Lower pH Level in a Pool?

Lowering the pH doesn't take rocket science, and you'll only need the right chemicals to get you started.

Ways to Lower pH Level in a Pool

Two of the commonly used chemicals for above ground pools, inground pools, among others, with high pH value, are Sodium Bisulfate (dry acid) and Muriatic Acid (hydrochloric acid).

These two prove to be useful and efficient at restoring pH levels.

Sodium Bisulfate

Sodium Bisulfate is a mild chemical that comes in powder form. You can use it to lower the pH [1] and total alkalinity of your swimming pool.

Step 1: Test the water chemistry of your pool, acid demand, and alkalinity. Watch out for high pH and alkalinity levels.

Step 2: Measure the amount of dry acid you need. Factor in the results of the pool chemistry and the volume of pool water.

Step 3: Open your water pump to have a continuous circulation of water. Add the acid right after and wait for it to dissolve.

Step 4: Allow the acid to rest for 24 hours and re-test it to check if you've achieved the proper pH balance.

Muriatic Acid

Handling muriatic acid requires the observance of safety precautions. It's a powerful chemical that can burn your skin if not used with rubber gloves on.

It's not new news that muriatic acid has been known for its effectiveness at breaking down calcium buildup and cleaning tiles. Here's how you can use for your swimming pools:

Step 1: Test your pool's pH balance and total alkalinity. There are test kits you can use for this.

Step 2: Measure the amount of acid you need. Factor in your pool's pH range.

Step 3: Turn off your pool's water pump. After, add muriatic acid and make sure it reaches the bottom of the pool. Once done, turn the pump back on to have a circulation system going in the water.

Step 4: Let the acid dissolve for several hours or overnight. After 24 hours, re-test the pH of the water.

Effects of High pH Levels in Swimming Pool

Once you start to notice the cloudy water of your pool, it's time to second guess whether you should take a dip or not.

It's one way to tell that your pool's pH base is high, and you probably shouldn't take a dip just yet.

High levels of pH in your pool water have some severe risks for yourself and pool surfaces.

You'll notice that your skin starts to get irritated. Your eyes might even start to have that burning sensation because of the water.

High pool pH also affects your pool equipment. It can create clogged pipes and filters, vital for cleaning your waters.

You might also notice that your pool water requires chlorine more than usual. No matter how much chlorine you use, it won't be effective if the pool pH is too high.

Maintaining Balanced pH Levels

Maintaining the pH can be tricky, considering the different factors that could affect it. Nevertheless, there are things pool owners can do to maintain a balanced pH level.

The first and easiest thing to do is to check the pool's chemistry at least twice a week. That way, you don't end up with uncontrollable and whack levels in the long run.

Another easy thing to do is to clean your pool often. Don't allow leaves to linger for too long, and make sure to keep them clean from dirt and debris.

One way you can clean your pool is by frequently adding chlorine stabilizer. The addition of this can help raise the pH to the normal range when it drops.

Frequently Asked Questions

What household items lower the pH in pools?

You might be surprised that even a household product can help with lowering the pH rate.

Like what we've mentioned above, muriatic acid is a product that can clean tiles, remove gunk, and solve your pool problems. And we're sure you've got this stored on your shelves.

Baking soda is also a great product to use that can return the pH to the regular scale.

Is it safe to swim in a pool with high pH?

No, it's not because it can lead to skin irritation, especially if exposed for a very long time. It's better to be safe than sorry later on.

Will Shocking pool lower pH?

Pool shock will be beneficial at achieving a normal pH rate. However, make sure to check the pH of your waters consistently and if it still needs shocking.

Conclusion

Lowering the pH of your pool down to the deep end can do wonders. You can enjoy your pool more and preserve your equipment for a long time.

So the next time someone asks you how to lower pH in pool, you've finally got the answer.