The pool water pH level is the measure of the acidity or basicity of a solution, in this case, the water in our pool. The optimal values recommended by the experts range between 7.2 and 7.6, so we must pay attention and be alert if the average obtained falls outside the indicated range.
If the pH decreases below 7.2 we have acidic water. If this happens, it will cause irritation to the skin, eyes and mucous membranes, in addition to generating corrosion problems in the pool materials (metal ladders, pumps, valves, and filters).
If on the contrary, the pH value rises above 7.6, the water in our pool becomes basic or alkaline. As was the case with acidic water, alkaline water, in addition to previous symptoms such as skin and eye irritation, would also cause dryness in our skin. Due to the basicity of the water, traces of calcium compounds are generated on the surface of the pool, and consequently, the water is seen in a more turbid and less crystalline form, also reducing the desired sterilizing and disinfectant effect with the addition of chlorine, consequently generating algae problems.
Experts recommend that periodic checks be made to maintain good water quality, as well as to maintain pH levels at levels suitable for bathing. It is advisable to perform a pH measurement at least once a week, acting as explained below if the pH parameters are beyond the ranges indicated.
Importance of the pH of the Pool, Why Does it Rise and Fall?
The ideal pool pH level for our pool water to be healthy ranges from 7.2 to 7.6, but sometimes when we take the measurement with our pH meter we are surprised that this value has risen or fallen.
The reasons why the pool’s ph rises (or falls) are mixed and varied, but commonly the pH level of the pools usually gives high values, that is, basic pH:
- A determining factor has to do with the amount of water in the pool. Weather factors such as wind and sun make the water evaporate over time and therefore the pH increases as the amount of water decreases. On the other hand, ultraviolet radiation from the sun increases the dissolution rate of chlorine in water, generating a gradual increase in pH values.
- A second factor is the bathers themselves. The sunscreens, moisturizers, body lotions, hair cells, dead skin, and even electrolytes from sweat make both chlorine and water acidity to be modified. Generally, bathers also cause pH levels to rise.
- Finally, the way to add chlorine to the pool can also change the pH values. The chlorine added in liquid form is nothing more than sodium hypochlorite, that is, bleach. This salt in the form of a solution is a highly alkaline or basic substance and therefore its addition generates significant pH increases. Chlorine added in tablets, on the other hand, includes trichloroisocyanuric acid that acidifies the water, thus reducing the pH of the water. A third modality is a form of granulated chlorine, which is characterized by having a pH close to neutrality (6.7) and the pH levels will be close to 7 therefore.
If for some reason you add more chlorine than you should, you should know how to lower the chlorine in the pool. For this, there are different techniques we will discuss later.
How does pool pH level affect Calcium deposits?
High pH level of pool water lead to high calcium levels in your pool and can lead to scaling. These are whitish scale or crystalline deposits usually found along the water line, inside pipes or all over the pool.
In many parts of the country, tap water hardness levels are usually 400-800 ppm. But your pool’s calcium hardness should ideally be in the range of 200-400 ppm.
How to keep the pH at optimal values?
Maintaining the pH value at optimal values is of the utmost importance. Failure to do so creates a danger to the health of the users of the pool. The recommended pH values range between 7.2 and 7.6, so a periodic pH measurement is advisable. Broadly speaking, when the pH becomes acidic and falls below 7.2, acidic water can irritate the eyes and skin (it is important to know how to increase the pool). If the pH rises from 7.6 becoming the basic water, there is a loss of effectiveness of the dissolved chlorine and therefore a decrease in the disinfectant power that is pursued.
The pH meter or pH meter is a scientific instrument specially designed for these tasks. In the market, we have different types of meters, such as a digital, pocket, and even test strips, which although they give us semiquantitative values, we must not neglect their effectiveness, simplicity, and ease of use.
Expert recommendations tell us that pH measurements must be made periodically or after special episodes, such as a storm. The rain and the pollution that drags in its precipitation tend to acidify the water and raise the pH. It is also advisable to measure it after the use of the pool by a large number of bathers since the use of lotions, sun creams, and the bathers’ own sweat can cause the pH to rise and become more basic.
Hire a Pool Cleaner to Help
There are several reasons why you should hire a professional to take care of your pool.
The first and most important reason is to maintain the chemical integrity of your pool water.
Chemically treating a swimming pool can be very frustrating for pool owners, at least if you want to maintain a level of quality!
In fact, this is a big reason why people prefer a professional review of their pool, as it can be confusing for someone who doesn’t know what they are doing.
Most importantly, your swimming pool is a breeding ground for nasty little organisms. Proper chemical treatment can effectively treat water and ensure the health and well-being of your family.
The next big reason for hiring a pool maintenance professional is to properly maintain the pool equipment. Most owners are not good at mechanically and are a little intimidated by the pool equipment.
In addition, there are many moving parts and if anything moved, it could drastically affect the normal operation of your pool and its filtration process.
A pool maintenance professional will not only keep your pool running smoothly, but will also use preventative maintenance techniques to save you time and money.
The last and most important reason to hire professionals is to enjoy your pool!
Pick up the phone and call 626-275-8959 and get your free estimate! Proudly taking care of Covina CA and all of its pool owners!
Also, call us with questions regarding your pool!