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How to raise pH in a pool
Test first and confirm that pH is under 7.2. Then use soda ash for a quick change, or aeration if your alkalinity is already high.
Steps
- Test pH and alkalinity.
- If alkalinity is low too, raise it first: that often lifts pH with it.
- Dissolve soda ash in a bucket of water, and pour it slowly around the pool with the pump running.
- Wait an hour and retest.
How much soda ash
| Pool size | 7.0 to 7.4 | 7.2 to 7.4 |
|---|---|---|
| 5,000 gal | 12 oz | 5 oz |
| 10,000 gal | 1.5 lb | 9 oz |
| 15,000 gal | 2.3 lb | 14 oz |
| 20,000 gal | 3 lb | 1.2 lb |
| 30,000 gal | 4.6 lb | 1.8 lb |
At 100 ppm alkalinity. These are estimates: use the pH calculator with your own alkalinity.
The no-chemical way
Aeration raises pH without changing alkalinity, because it drives carbon dioxide out of the water. Point return jets at the surface, or run waterfalls and fountains. It is slower, but it is free, and it is the right choice when alkalinity is already high.
Do not overdose. Too much soda ash at once can cloud the water, and overshooting means adding acid to come back.
Add chemicals to water, never water to chemicals, one at a time, with the pump running. Wear gloves and eye protection, and never mix products.