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A swimming pool’s pH levels are a measure of how acidic or basic the water is. The scale ranges from zero to 14. Seven is the midpoint, and everything below that is acidic, while everything above is alkaline. Around 7.4 is ideal, as this is near the same pH as human eyes, meaning the water won’t cause irritation or harm to swimmers. Here’s what happens when a pool’s conditions vary from this range.

What Happens If a Swimming Pool’s pH Is Off?

Too Acidic

When pH count is low, the acidity will corrode metals and eat away at the surfaces of the pool, creating ideal conditions for algae. This process will also release sulfates, which may make ugly stains on the walls that will ruin the pool’s aesthetic. This environment can be unpleasant for swimmers, causing noses and eyes to burn when the swimmer submerges.

Too Alkaline

swimming poolA high pH content will lead to the formation of carbonates—a scaly, unpleasant substance that will make the water appear cloudy. Chlorine will also be less effective at disinfecting the water, creating an unsanitary environment. Pool owners will start to notice a buildup of dirt and grime, as the carbonates will hinder the filter from performing its purpose.

How to Test pH

Commercial testing kits are widely available and are designed to be simple enough for anyone to use. There are various designs, but all of them rely on the basic concept of using chemicals that change color according to pH level. An accompanying chart will help owners determine whether the color indicates their water is too basic or acidic. Pool owners can either perform these tests themselves or hire a maintenance company to do the work.

 

For swimming pool owners around Cincinnati, OH, the experts at All-American Pools can assist with everything from pool maintenance to pool installation. Their team has over 60 years of experience providing great quality services to clients, ensuring that they know how to analyze and fix any problem that comes along. To learn more today, visit them online. You can also call their East Side location at (513) 753-6923 or their West Side location at (513) 522-7161.

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