What Is the Alkalinity Range of Pool Water?

Alkalinity is just one measurement necessary to maintain your pool.

Pool water requires several different chemicals to reduce the growth of bacteria and algae in the water. Alkalinity represents the amount of alkaline deposits or substances in the water. Improper alkalinity levels can break down other chemicals in the pool faster than normal and promote bacteria growth.

Facts

The proper alkalinity level in a pool is 80 to 100 parts per million (ppm). You can measure alkalinity using a litmus strip or water test kit designed specifically for swimming pool water.

Adjustments

Alkalinity increaser is a generic chemical that pool owners can use to increase low alkalinity levels. To decrease alkalinity, pH decreaser works well to drop levels to the proper range.

Considerations

Testing alkalinity alone is insufficient for pool water maintenance; pH testing is also necessary, along with measuring current chlorine levels. Pool water test kits will measure all the important elements for pool water, with directions provided for adding chemicals.

References

• "The Ultimate Pool Maintenance Manual: Spas, Pools, Hot Tubs, Rockscapes and Other Water Features, 2nd Edition"; Terry Tamminen; 2000