One of the key indicators of water’s chemical composition is pH in a pool, something everyone remembers from school. It’s a measure of the amount of free hydrogen ions in water, characterizing the liquid’s acid-base balance. Let’s explore how to normalize this indicator and what influences pH in a pool.
Why is it important to know your acid-base balance?
Swimming pool disinfection is primarily carried out using chlorine-containing products. Their effectiveness is directly dependent on pH. This pH also influences the chemical and biological processes in the water and the comfort of swimming in the artificial pool.
Why does the pH in my pool drop?
A reading below 7 indicates the water has become acidic. This environment is corrosive to equipment and swimmers:
- causes acid corrosion of equipment;
- leads to destruction of the bowl lining;
- the effectiveness of chlorine-based pool chemicals decreases;
- Visitors experience burning eyes, increased dryness of the skin, and irritation after swimming.
A predominance of acidity over alkalinity occurs due to improperly selected chemicals, as well as an incorrect calculation of the required amounts of disinfectants and alkaline reagents. This will be visually evident in a change in the water color: it will turn green, and the equipment will become rusty.
Why does the pH in the pool rise?
If the pH is above 7.5, the water is considered highly alkaline. This can increase for several reasons:
- During the construction of sports pools, a filter was installed to increase pH; it is designed for use in acidic environments, but is used for liquids with normal pH values;
- due to the large number of swimmers;
- The means for normalizing the acid-base balance are used incorrectly.
Elevated pH leads to:
- calcium deposits on equipment and pipes;
- acceleration of biological processes and growth of microorganisms;
- deterioration of the condition of the skin and mucous membranes of swimmers;
- a decrease in the effectiveness of pool chemicals, which entails increased consumption of preparations and additional costs.
Liquids with a high alkali content become cloudy and soapy, and chlorine-containing agents and active oxygen precipitate in the form of flakes.
Important Note: Get professional Pool Acid Removal Phoenix AZ to balance water, remove stains, and protect your pool surface. Fast, safe, and affordable pool treatment services
What pH should be in a swimming pool?
A pH of 7.0 to 7.8 is considered optimal for effective disinfection, water quality adjustment, and comfortable bathing. This acid-base balance ensures the natural flow of biological and chemical processes. The level of aggressiveness and toxicity remains within normal limits. Maintaining equilibrium:
- will reduce the rate of corrosion of equipment, therefore it will last longer;
- eliminates scale;
- It will relieve swimmers from irritation of the mucous membrane; you can swim in such water even with your eyes open.
Allows for the effective use of disinfectants and corrective agents, while wisely spending the maintenance budget.
Remember that chlorine reacts with organic matter in water to form disinfection byproducts. These compounds are classified as carcinogenic and can cause adverse reactions in skin and mucous membranes and contribute to the development of asthma. Therefore, it is important to monitor water quality indicators.
How to measure pH in a swimming pool
Three methods are used to determine the acid-base balance in artificial reservoirs.
Litmus paper
Litmus strips for determining pH in the pool
Test strips are very easy to use. Simply dip the edge of the paper into water and hold it there for a few seconds. Then compare the resulting color on the litmus paper with the indicator chart, which is usually provided on the packaging.
Advantages of the method:
- can be found in any store selling chemicals and equipment for swimming pools;
- easy to use, do not require special skills;
- affordable price.
The main drawback of test strips is their inaccuracy. This method can only determine the value with an accuracy of 1.0.
pH meter
You can determine the pH level using an electronic device in three steps:
- take a water sample – 25-30 ml is enough;
- rinse the sensor with distilled water;
- place the device in the flask.
Within seconds, water quality information is displayed on the screen. This method is extremely accurate, and results are delivered quickly. Readings accurate to within 0.1 units allow for comparative analysis and the identification of negative trends in pool water quality.
This method requires minimal skill in using laboratory equipment. It’s also necessary to regularly calibrate the pH meter using solutions with standard pH levels, otherwise the results will become inaccurate.
Pills
A dry preparation, pressed into small tablets, imparts a specific color to water when it interacts with it. To conduct the test, a sample is taken and poured into the included vial. It has a color scale for comparison. These tests are easy to use and inexpensive. Although visual, they do not provide accurate results.
How to Lower the pH of a Pool
To normalize the acidity in the reservoir, pH-minus products are used. They are available in powder, granular, and liquid forms. These products are designed to reduce the water’s carbonate hardness, CO2 content, and alkali concentration. The main component is sodium bisulfate.
Use the products according to the dosage chart, based on the pond’s volume and pH. Pour the powder and granules into the skimmer or dilute them in a small amount of water. Add this solution directly to the pump’s bowl or distribution tank. You can also use liquid products.
When handling these medications, observe safety precautions, wear protective clothing, gloves, and goggles. Do not inhale vapors. If the product comes into contact with skin or mucous membranes, rinse thoroughly with running water. If the product enters the body, seek medical attention immediately.
How to increase the pH of your pool water
To reduce alkalinity, pH-Plus products containing sodium carbonate are used. Available in powder and liquid form.
You’ve tested your pool’s pH and found that it’s low. What should you do? If you’re using a powder, dilute it in a small amount of water and add it to the pool. Pour the mixture in front of the filtered water return nozzle. If you have a distribution tank, dilute the powder there.
Important! These medications should only be diluted in cold water. Do not use heated water to speed up dissolution.
Strictly adhere to dosage and safety precautions when working with chemicals.
Conclusion
Now you know what pool water pH is, how to measure it, and how to regulate it. The water’s pH balance is essential for swimmers’ comfort and the proper functioning of equipment. Maintaining the pH level will prevent unpleasant cloudiness or green discoloration in your pool and prevent corrosion and scale deposits.
If you’re unsure how to properly regulate your water, SB Wellness specialists can help. We can conduct regular water quality analysis and maintain optimal levels.