Swimming Pool PH Levels - What do they mean?

The pH is probably the most important factor in swimming pool water and should be tested and adjusted on a weekly basis. Measuring the pH level is a way to assess the relative acidity or alkalinity of the pool water. pH is measured on a scale of 1 to 14 where 1 is extremely acidic and 14 is extremely alkaline. A pH reading of 7.0 is neutral - below 7.0 is acidic - above 7.0 is alkaline. The pH level has an amazing affect on swimming pool water and if managed properly can save a lot of time and money!

What if the pH of the swimming pool water is too high (alkaline)?

Calcium deposits, otherwise known as scale, can form and build up on the pool equipment, plumbing, and on pool walls and tiles.

Chlorine becomes less effective. At a pH level of 8.0 or greater, approximatley 25% or less of the chlorine can be used by the pool to oxidize bacteria and algae and the remainder is wasted.

In cases of pools located in areas with an extremely high ground water table, after the pool has been emptied, it is often necessary to attach a hose to the open pressure relief valve and continuously pump away in-flowing groundwater during the entire time the pool is kept empty. Some pools had water problems during construction and have a "stand-pipe" located near the pool. Groundwater can be drained directly through this pipe.

The swimming pool water can become cloudy.Swimmers may experience burning in the eyes and nose and dry and itchy skin.

What if the pH of the swimming pool water is too low (acidic)?

The swimming pool water becomes corrosive and will dissolve any metal pool equipment it comes in contact with. The acidic water can also dissolve the pool surface making it rougher and causing even more long-term problems.

As the corrosion occurs, sulphates are formed and can cause staining of the swimming pool surfaces.

Chlorine becomes very ineffective and it can become difficult to keep the swimming pool sanitized.

Swimmers may experience burning in the eyes and nose and dry and itchy skin.

It pays to balance the pH level in your swimming pool!

It surley pays dividends to balance the pH level of the pool on a weekly basis. Doing so can take most or all of these problems out of the picture. The recommended pH level for swimming pools is between 7.2 and 7.8. Set an ideal target of 7.4 and maintaining the swimming pool will get much easier!

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