How to Raise pH in Pool: A Step-by-Step Guide for Clear, Balanced Water

If your pool water feels acidic, irritates swimmers’ eyes, or starts corroding equipment, you may have low pH in pool water. Knowing how to raise pH in pool safely and effectively is key to keeping your water crystal clear and your pool system in top shape. 🏊

This guide explains why pH matters, how to spot low pH, and the best methods to raise pool pH quickly without overcorrecting.

Why pH balance is important in pools

Pool water should have a pH level between 7.2 and 7.6. Anything lower than 7.0 is acidic and can cause:

• Corrosion of pool ladders, pumps, and heaters

• Skin and eye irritation for swimmers

• Reduced effectiveness of chlorine

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), maintaining balanced water chemistry is essential for swimmer safety and comfort.

Low pH in pool water not only harms your equipment—it also makes chlorine less effective, which invites bacteria and algae.

Sodium carbonate for raising pH levels in pools

How to Raise pH in Pool Water

There are two common products pool owners use: soda ash (sodium carbonate) and baking soda (sodium bicarbonate).

Step 1: Test your pool water

Use a reliable test kit or strips to confirm pH levels. If your pool is below 7.2, you’ll need to raise it.

Step 2: Choose the right product

• Soda ash (sodium carbonate): Best for raising pH quickly without significantly raising alkalinity.

• Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate): Raises both pH and total alkalinity but works more slowly.

Step 3: Measure the dosage

• About 6 oz of soda ash per 10,000 gallons of water raises pH by roughly 0.2 points.

• Baking soda requires more—around 1.5 lbs per 10,000 gallons for the same effect.

The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance recommends adding chemicals gradually, retesting after 4–6 hours, and adjusting as needed.

Step 4: Add to the pool

• Pre-dissolve soda ash in a bucket of pool water.

• Pour it slowly around the pool’s perimeter with the pump running.

• Allow circulation for several hours before retesting.

Always add chemicals in smaller doses first. It’s easier to increase pH in steps than to lower it after overshooting.

A stunning infinity pool seamlessly blends with the vast ocean, creating a tranquil oasis amidst rugged coastal rocks under a clear blue sky.

How do I raise pH in a pool long-term?

Once the immediate fix is done, here are tips to keep your levels stable:

• Maintain total alkalinity between 80–120 ppm.

• Test water at least 2–3 times a week during peak season.

• Avoid using acidic sanitizers or shocks too frequently.

• Keep your pump and filter running for proper circulation.

The CDC Model Aquatic Health Code also emphasizes the importance of routine testing for consistent water balance.

Baking soda container for pool maintenance

FAQ

How to raise pH in pool water quickly?

Add soda ash to increase pH effectively without raising alkalinity too much.

How do I raise pH in a pool naturally?

Aeration (like fountains or jets) can slowly raise pH without chemicals, though it’s slower.

What’s the difference between soda ash and baking soda?

Soda ash raises pH faster, while baking soda mainly boosts alkalinity but also helps with pH.

Can low pH in pool damage equipment?

Yes—acidic water corrodes pumps, heaters, and ladders over time.

How to increase pH in pool safely?

Always add chemicals in small amounts, circulate water, and retest before adding more.

Final verdict: raising pool pH the right way

If you’re asking how to raise pH in pool, the solution is simple: test, add soda ash or baking soda in measured doses, and retest after circulation. Keeping pH within the ideal range of 7.2–7.6 ensures safe swimming, protects equipment, and keeps your water sparkling. 🌊