The ideal total alkalinity range for pools is between 80 and 120 parts per million (ppm). This range is ideal because it helps to keep the pH level of the pool stable, which is important for preventing the growth of algae and bacteria.
What is Total Alkalinity?
Total alkalinity is a measure of the amount of alkaline salts in water. Alkaline salts are chemicals that can neutralize acids. Total alkalinity is important for pool water because it helps to keep the pH level of the water stable.
The pH level of water is a measure of how acidic or alkaline the water is. A pH level of 7 is neutral. A pH level below 7 is acidic, and a pH level above 7 is alkaline. The ideal pH level for pools is between 7.2 and 7.8.
Why is Total Alkalinity Important?
Total alkalinity is important for pool water because it helps to keep the pH level of the water stable. If the pH level of the water is too low, it will be acidic and can irritate your skin, eyes, and hair. It can also damage your pool equipment. If the pH level of the water is too high, it will be alkaline and can cause skin rashes and dry eyes. It can also make your pool water cloudy.
Total alkalinity also helps to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria. Algae and bacteria thrive in acidic water. By keeping the pH level of the water stable, you can help to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria.
How to Test Total Alkalinity
There are a number of ways to test total alkalinity. You can use a test strip, a liquid test kit, or a digital meter. Once you have tested the total alkalinity of your pool water, you can adjust it using baking soda or muriatic acid.
How to Adjust Total Alkalinity
If the total alkalinity of your pool water is too low, you can add baking soda to raise it. If the total alkalinity of your pool water is too high, you can add muriatic acid to lower it.
How Often to Test Total Alkalinity
You should test the total alkalinity of your pool water at least once a week. If you have a lot of swimmers or if your pool is in a hot climate, you may need to test the total alkalinity more often.
How to Keep Total Alkalinity in Range
There are a number of things you can do to keep total alkalinity in range. These include:
- Test the total alkalinity of your pool water regularly.
- Add baking soda or muriatic acid to adjust the total alkalinity as needed.
- Clean and sanitize your pool regularly.
- Backwash your pool filter regularly.
- Drain and refill your pool as needed.
By following these tips, you can help to keep total alkalinity in range and enjoy your pool all season long.