How to Bring pH Up in Pool: The Complete Pool pH Balance Guide

Why Raising pH Level in Pools Is Important

Low pH levels in pool water can cause a host of issues that affect both the safety of the water and the longevity of your pool equipment. Acidic water can erode metal components like ladders, heaters, and pumps, corrode pool liners, and contribute to scaling caused by calcium deposits.

It also lowers the effectiveness of chlorine, meaning you’ll need to use more chemicals to achieve the same sanitizing effect. Additionally, acidic water can irritate the skin and eyes of swimmers, creating an unpleasant experience. Balancing your pH ensures not only better swimmer comfort but also preserves the structural integrity of your pool.

How to Test Your Pool pH Level Accurately

Use Test Strips

Test strips are an easy and quick way to check the pH level. Dip the strip into the water and compare the color change to a pH chart on the bottle. They’re ideal for daily use and quick checks but may lack the precision of other methods.

Use a Liquid Test Kit

Liquid test kits involve adding reagents to a pool water sample and comparing the resulting color to a chart. These kits provide more accurate readings than strips and are preferred for weekly checks.

Use a Digital pH Meter

Digital meters are the most precise tools for monitoring your pool’s pH level. These devices provide fast, accurate digital readings and are especially useful for those managing large pools or spas.

Causes of Low pH in Pool Water

There are several common causes that lead to a drop in pool water pH levels. Understanding these can help prevent recurring problems.

• Rainwater: Rain has a naturally low pH and can dilute your pool water, lowering its overall pH level.

• Pool Leaks: Loss of water through leaks can alter chemical balances.

• Overuse of Muriatic Acid: Used for lowering pH, excessive application can drop pH too far.

• Evaporation and Refill: Adding fresh water can dilute chemicals.

• High Swimmer Load: Sweat, urine, sunscreen, and body oils can impact chemical balance.

How to Raise pH in Pool Water Safely

Using Soda Ash (Sodium Carbonate)

Soda Ash is a powerful pH increaser that quickly raises pH levels in pool water with minimal effect on total alkalinity. It is often used when pH is low but alkalinity is already within range.

To use:

• Calculate your pool volume.

• Refer to a Soda Ash Dosage Chart.

• Add 6 oz per 10,000 gallons of water to raise pH by 0.2 units.

• Pre-dissolve in a bucket of water before adding to avoid clouding.

• Pour evenly around the pool’s perimeter while the pump is running.

Using Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)

Baking Soda primarily raises total alkalinity and has a moderate effect on pH. It’s best used when both pH and alkalinity are low.

To use:

• Determine pool volume using a Pool Volume Calculator.

• Refer to a Baking Soda Dosage Chart.

• Add 1.5 lbs per 10,000 gallons to raise alkalinity by 10 ppm.

• Dissolve before adding to prevent cloudiness.

• Distribute evenly and run the filtration system.

Natural Method: Aeration

Aeration is a slower but natural method of raising pH. It involves increasing air exposure to pool water, encouraging carbon dioxide to escape, which raises pH.

To aerate:

• Run water features like fountains or jets.

• Point return jets upward.

• Leave the pool uncovered to expose water to air.

Step-by-Step: Adding Chemicals to Raise pH

1. Test your pool water using your preferred method.

2. Identify whether you need to raise pH, alkalinity, or both.

3. Use the appropriate chemical (Soda Ash for pH, Baking Soda for alkalinity).

4. Calculate the amount needed using dosage charts.

5. Pre-dissolve chemicals in water.

6. Slowly pour into the pool while the pump is running.

7. Wait 30 minutes to an hour, then retest.

8. Repeat if necessary.

How to Handle pH Bounce and Maintain Pool Stability

pH bounce is a rapid fluctuation of pH levels, often caused by low total alkalinity. To prevent this:

• Maintain alkalinity between 80–120 ppm.

• Use Baking Soda to raise alkalinity without dramatically affecting pH.

• Test frequently, especially after rain or heavy use.

Fixing Cloudy Pool Water After pH Adjustment

Adding Soda Ash or Baking Soda may temporarily cause cloudiness. To clear it:

• Run the filtration system continuously for 24 hours.

• Clean or backwash your filter.

• Retest and adjust if needed.

• Use clarifiers or Clear Balance™ Tablets for stubborn cloudiness.

Tips for Ongoing Pool Water Balancing

• Test water twice weekly using a reliable kit.

• Keep chlorine levels at 1–3 ppm.

• Maintain calcium hardness at 200–400 ppm.

• Keep pH between 7.2 and 7.8 ppm.

• Monitor total alkalinity at 80–120 ppm.

• Balance all parameters for optimal water clarity and safety.

Related Pool Maintenance and Chemical Use

• Use Muriatic Acid to lower high pH.

• Apply Algaecide for green, yellow, or black algae control.

• Superchlorinate weekly to eliminate contaminants.

• Watch for signs of corrosion or scale buildup.

• Prevent pH fluctuations by checking for leaks and covering the pool.

Conclusion: Raising Pool pH Is Easy with the Right Knowledge