Got a swimming pool in your backyard? Or do you run a swimming pool business? By now, you should have already understood the importance of the water’s pH balance and how it affects the users and the pool’s maintenance. Simply put, the pH level of the water refers to the balance of acid and alkalis in the pool. Too much or too little of both will cause undesirable chemical reactions.
A swimming pool can use Co2 systems to level the pH balance of the water. The system is a natural, user-friendly alternative to manage the pH balance of a swimming pool. It helps maintain the alkalinity of the water and at the same time, reduces total dissolved solids, which are buildups of minerals and dust left after the water evaporates.
How Is the pH Level Measured?
The pH level of pool water is measured based on its acidity. The scale ranges from 0 to 14. A pH level below 7.0 is considered acidic. If it’s 8.0 and above, the water is too basic or alkaline. The right pH balance, therefore, is somewhere between 7.4 and 7.6. That is what you should be aiming for to make sure the swimming pool has the right chemical balance.
Why Is the Right pH Level Important?
The right pH balance will help chlorine work effectively. Chlorine, as you should know, is responsible for keeping the water clean and removing potentially harmful germs and bacteria. However, for it to do its job, the water has to have the right pH level.
It also ensures that there would be no algae growth and unsightly mineral buildup in the pool. Aside from that, the right pH balance means the water is gentle on your eyes. Improper levels can cause eye and skin irritation. More, maintaining the chemical balance of the water will prevent damage to the pool’s components such as the pump and heater.
What Happens If the Right pH Balance Is Not Achieved?
Several things might happen if the pool does not have the right pH balance. Acidic and alkaline water can cause eye and skin irritation. It may also irritate the nasal passages. If your skin feels dry and itchy and your hair feels brittle, that’s because the water is too acidic or too alkaline. The human body is made for the right pH balance, too.
As mentioned above, the chlorine in the water will not work properly if the pH level isn’t balanced. That means you’ll have to spend more on chlorine to kill the germs and bacteria in the water. You won’t need to do this if the pH level is right. The chlorine will be able to do its job.
The pool’s aesthetics can also suffer because of the imbalance of the water’s pH level. If the water is too acidic, it can cause corrosion in the pumps and mechanical components. Even that slide and diving board you’re so fond of may get damaged. If the water is too alkaline, the pool will look cloudy and murky. That’s unsightly for pool-goers.
How to Maintain the Right pH Level?
You can use test strips to monitor the pH level every day. This simple test will tell you if the water is too acidic or too alkaline. Adjusting the water’s pH level is easier, too. There are many options available, though the most popular remains to be increasing the bases or acids using chemicals. You should follow the package instructions very well to ensure you got it right. Test the water before diving into it.
Keeping the chemistry balance of a swimming pool is very critical in its maintenance. Your pool will last longer by testing it for the right pH level. Monitoring the pH level of the pool will ensure its durability and make it comfortable for the users.