Maintaining proper alkalinity levels is essential for keeping your swimming pool water safe, clear, and well-balanced. If your pool’s alkalinity is too low, it can lead to fluctuating pH levels, corrosion of pool surfaces, and eye or skin irritation. To raise pool alkalinity effectively, add an alkalinity increaser such as sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to your pool water.
Start by testing the water with a reliable test kit, calculate the adjustment required based on your pool’s volume, and slowly add the correct amount of pool chemicals to restore ideal alkalinity levels between 80 and 120 ppm (parts per million). Regular monitoring and balancing of your pool’s alkalinity will help protect your equipment, improve sanitizer efficiency, and provide a more comfortable swimming experience.
Alkalinity acts as a buffer that prevents sharp fluctuations in your swimming pool’s pH levels. Without stable total alkalinity, the pH level can swing too high or too low, making it difficult to manage overall water balance. Proper alkalinity enhances the effectiveness of chlorine and minimizes the risk of scaling and corrosion. It’s a cornerstone of efficient swimming pool treatment that every pool owner and service technician should understand.
The recommended total alkalinity range for swimming pools is 80–120 ppm. Values below 80 ppm are considered low and require correction. Neglecting this can result in acidic water, which may erode surfaces, damage your pool pump, heater, or filter, and cause discomfort for swimmers.
Before taking action, use a liquid test kit or test strips to check the total alkalinity of your swimming pool water. Ensure you’re in a comfortable and well-ventilated area when handling pool chemicals.
If your pool’s alkalinity is low, the amount of sodium bicarbonate needed will depend on pool volume and how far below the ideal range your current levels are. As a general guideline, 1.5 pounds of baking soda will typically raise the alkalinity by about 10 ppm in a 10,000-gallon pool.
Slowly broadcast the baking soda or alkalinity increaser across the surface of the pool while the circulation system is running. Avoid dumping large amounts in one spot. Wait 6–12 hours and re-test to determine whether further adjustments are needed.
Always make gradual changes when adjusting alkalinity. Sudden swings can disturb your pool’s pH and make the water temporarily cloudy. Patience and consistency lead to long-term pool water stability.
Yes, baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a cost-effective solution to elevate total alkalinity. Many commercial pool chemicals labeled as alkalinity increasers use this compound as the primary ingredient.
Yes, raising alkalinity can slightly increase the pH of your pool water. That’s why it’s important to adjust one value at a time and continuously test to maintain optimal water balance.
You should test alkalinity at least once a week, or more frequently during periods of heavy use, rain, or after the addition of other pool chemicals. Regular water testing ensures you stay ahead of any imbalances.
Learn More: Adjusting Pool’s pH and Alkalinity: Keep Your Water Balanced
In Miami-Dade and throughout South Florida, high temperatures, UV exposure, and frequent rainfall can affect the chemical composition of swimming pool water. These conditions can dilute your water or encourage algae growth, which in turn dramatically impacts alkalinity and overall water chemistry. As a local pool service provider, M&M Pool & Spa Services understands the unique environmental challenges that South Florida pool owners face.
Our expert technicians provide proactive swimming pool treatment, including routine chemical balancing to ensure safe, crystal-clear water all year long. Whether you’re in Coral Gables, Kendall, Hialeah, or any part of Miami-Dade County, we’re committed to maintaining proper pool alkalinity and water balance so you can enjoy your pool worry-free.
At M&M Pool & Spa Services, we offer comprehensive maintenance solutions, expert water chemistry adjustment, and professional insight into every aspect of swimming pool treatment. Our licensed and insured team uses only top-grade pool chemicals and state-of-the-art testing tools to restore and maintain optimal water balance, including proper alkalinity levels.
If you’re unsure how to raise pool alkalinity safely or want reliable assistance with maintaining a balanced swimming pool in South Florida, let the experienced team at M&M Pool & Spa Services help. Call us today or email us to request a free consultation or schedule a service plan tailored to your pool’s unique needs.
Keep your pool healthy, sparkling, and perfectly balanced with help from South Florida’s trusted pool care experts.