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How to decrease alkalinity your in pool
Maintaining your swimming pool’s alkalinity is key for a safe and enjoyable experience. But what exactly is alkalinity and why is it important?
In this article, we take a deep dive into alkalinity, with a focus on how to reduce it. Perfect for pool enthusiasts or owners who want to take good care of their pools, this blog offers valuable information on understanding alkalinity and how to manage and reduce it.
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What is alkalinity?
Swimming pool water needs to meet specific standards to be considered clean and safe. This involves testing and always checking the water’s alkalinity levels.
So, what is it?
Pool water total alkalinity refers to the amount of hydroxide ions (OH-) and carbonate ions (CO3‾²) in the water. It’s one of the key parameters for keeping the pool environment healthy for swimming. The recommended range of alkalinity is usually between 80 and 120 ppm.
pH is also closely related to the healthiness of the pool and is an indicator of the acidity or alkalinity of the water.
A balanced pH is essential for the comfort of swimmers and for the effectiveness of chemicals like chlorine. Its range goes from 1 to 14, where 7 is a neutral value. A value below 7 is acidic, and a value above 7 is basic or alkaline.
What is the connection between alkalinity and pH?
Alkalinity mainly serves as a buffer for pH.
It helps keep the water’s pH stable, avoiding rapid fluctuations that could be harmful both to the structure of the pool and to those using it.
What can cause high alkalinity?
Several factors can influence alkalinity:
- Overuse of chemicals such as chlorine, alkalinity increasers like baking soda, and other pool additives.
- Refilling with water that is naturally alkaline.
- Environmental pollutants, such as pollen or dust.
- Residues of detergents or other chemicals such as such as phosphates or sulfates.
- Stagnation and poor water circulation.
How to lower pool alkalinity
When the alkalinity is too high, it’s necessary to take action to lower the levels, restoring healthy and optimal conditions.
Some products are effective:
- Hydrochloric acid (also known as muriatic) effectively lowers alkalinity but requires careful handling to avoid health and pool surface damage. The amount needed depends on water volume, existing alkalinity, and pH. Typically, 0.95 litres can lower alkalinity by 10 ppm in 38,000 litres. Add gradually and test after each addition due to its potent nature.
- Using acidic compounds and acidity reducers, their properties act effectively by producing carbon dioxide and removing the carbon responsible for alkalinity. Available in liquid and solid formats, they require 48 hours to take full effect.
How to lower alkalinity without affecting pH?
Maintaining the right alkalinity level in your pool is crucial, but it’s equally important to do this without disrupting the pH balance.
There are several effective methods to lower alkalinity that minimally impact the pH levels. These techniques are especially useful when you need to adjust one aspect of your pool’s chemistry without affecting the other.
Here are some of these methods:
- Increase aeration: boost surface water agitation to allow carbon dioxide to escape, reducing alkalinity.
- Use selective acidic compounds: choose acid products formulated to lower alkalinity without significantly altering pH.
- Reverse osmosis: a filtration process removing impurities from water using a semipermeable membrane.
- Partial drain and refill: Remove a portion of pool water and refill with fresh water to reduce unwanted substances.
- Use mineral treatments: Some mineral-based products reduce alkalinity without affecting pH (consult a professional first!).
You might also need to increase your pool’s alkalinity. What should be done in this case? Let’s take a look.
What is an alkalinity increaser?
An alkalinity increaser is a chemical compound used to raise alkalinity levels. It typically contains sodium bicarbonate or sodium carbonate, which elevates the concentration of alkaline compounds in water, thereby increasing alkalinity.
This ingredient stabilises pH levels, preventing rapid fluctuations, and ensuring water quality and comfort.
Regularly monitoring and carefully adjusting your pool’s alkalinity and pH levels is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable swimming experience. Always remember to test your pool water frequently, and when in doubt, seek advice from a pool care professional to maintain the perfect balance.
Get help from the experts in pool care
If you’re looking for specific guidance on decreasing the alkalinity of your pool, our nationwide network of approved dealers can help you achieve a perfectly balanced pool environment.
Find your local dealer here and get your pool ready for a refreshing swimming experience.
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Hey! I'm Adrian, founder and pool expert here at Dolphin Pacific. I love spending time with family, fishing, and have been known to brew my own beer.
