WTpH!
Maintaining proper water chemistry is crucial for the health of any swimming pool. One of the key aspects of pool chemistry is pH, which is a measure of the acidity or basicity of the water. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what pH is in pools, why it's important, and how it's related to total alkalinity.
What is pH in pools?
pH is a measure of how acidic or basic a liquid is. In the context of pool water, pH refers to the measure of how acidic or basic the water is on a scale of 0 to 14. A pH of 7.0 is neutral, meaning the water is neither acidic nor basic. pH values below 7.0 indicate acidity, while values above 7.0 indicate basicity.
Why is pH important in pools?
Maintaining the correct pH level in a swimming pool is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it affects the effectiveness of other pool chemicals, such as chlorine, which is used to kill bacteria and other harmful organisms. Chlorine is most effective when the pH is between 7.2 and 7.8. If the pH level is too high or too low, the chlorine will not work effectively, which can lead to problems with water quality.
Secondly, pH levels that are too high or too low can be harmful to swimmers, and to the pool itself. Low pH levels can cause skin and eye irritation, as well as etching on your pool’s surface. High pH levels can lead to scale formation on pool surfaces, cloudy water, and reduced chlorine effectiveness.
How is pH related to total alkalinity?
Total alkalinity (TA) is another important aspect of pool water chemistry that is closely related to pH. TA measures the pool water's ability to resist changes in pH. If TA is too low, the pH can fluctuate more easily, making it difficult to maintain the correct pH level. On the other hand, if TA is too high, the pH level may become too stable, making it difficult to adjust.
To maintain proper pH levels, it's important to also maintain proper TA levels. The ideal TA range for a swimming pool is between 80 and 120 parts per million (ppm). If the TA is outside of this range, adjusting it can help to bring the pH back to the proper level.
In conclusion, pH is an essential aspect of pool water chemistry that should be carefully monitored and adjusted as needed. Maintaining the proper pH level helps to ensure that other pool chemicals work effectively, keeps swimmers safe and comfortable, and helps to prevent damage to pool surfaces and equipment. Remember to also monitor total alkalinity, as it is closely related to pH and can impact pH levels if it is not maintained within the proper range.
If you're unsure about how to maintain proper pH and Alkalinity, or need assistance with your pool maintenance, don't hesitate to contact us at Sunrise Pool & Spa in South Charlotte..