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If your pool water appears cloudy, stings your eyes, or has an unpleasant odor, your pH level may be out of balance. Even a small jump, from 7.5 to 8.0, can reduce chlorine’s effectiveness by nearly 50%. That opens the door to algae, bacteria, and other water problems.
The ideal pH range is 7.4 to 7.6, with a minimum of 7.2 and a maximum of 7.8. Outside that range, water can irritate the skin and eyes, corrode pool equipment and pool surfaces, and disrupt your chemical balance. Whether your pH is high or low, it’s super easy to fix with quality products and support from Locey Swim & Spa.
How to Raise pH in Pools: Step‑by‑Step Guide
If your pH drops below 7.2, water becomes too acidic. That can cause skin irritation, wear down surfaces, and waste chlorine. Start by using test strips or a test kit to check your pool’s pH level and total alkalinity. To bring the pH back up, add a pH increaser, available at Locey Swim & Spa.
You can use the label’s dosing chart to find the correct amount based on your pool volume. With the pump running, pour it into the deep end and let it circulate for 4-6 hours. If alkalinity levels are low, use an alkalinity increaser to stabilize the water and maintain a more stable pH.
How to Lower Your Pool’s pH: Step‑by‑Step Guide
When the pH level rises above 7.8, chlorine loses its effectiveness, and you may notice dry skin, cloudy water, or scaling on your pool surfaces. To lower pH, use muriatic acid (a liquid form of hydrochloric acid) or dry acid (pH reducer).
First, test your water with strips or a test kit. Then, add the recommended amount based on your pool size. Always pour acids near a return jet with the pump running, and allow at least 4-6 hours for circulation before retesting. Always wear gloves and avoid skin contact, never mix pool chemicals.
Balancing Alkalinity and pH Together
Alkalinity and pH levels are closely related. Alkalinity helps resist drastic pH swings, making it easier to maintain a stable pH level. When your alkalinity is in the ideal range of 80-120 ppm, your pH remains balanced, even after weather changes, chlorine shocks, or heavy use by swimmers.
If the alkalinity is too low, the pH may crash. If it’s too high, pH can stay elevated. Use a total alkalinity increaser to safely raise levels. Always test and adjust alkalinity first, correcting this issue upfront can save you from having to chase the same problem twice.
Pro Tips for Maintaining Stable pH Levels
The easiest way to prevent pH issues is to maintain a consistent schedule for pool maintenance. Test your water at least twice a week with reliable pH test strips or a test kit. Skim out debris daily, as decaying leaves can throw off water chemistry.
Clean or backwash your filters regularly, ensure your pump is circulating water evenly, and monitor chemical levels after rain, parties, or treatment shocks. Even a small amount of imbalance can develop into a larger issue if left unaddressed.
Need a Little Help?
Not sure which products to use, how many chemicals to add, or how to calculate your gallons? View our pool chemicals or stop by Locey Swim & Spa with a water sample for a professional water analysis. Whether you’re adjusting your pH level, raising total alkalinity, or tackling cloudiness with soda ash or muriatic acid, our team is here to support your pool maintenance goals. Get expert guidance, accurate dosing help, and products designed to keep your water clean, clear, and ready for swimmers all season long.