Many pool experts agree that pH is the most important element of swimming pool water chemistry. The lower the pH value, the more acidic the water. The higher the pH value, the more basic the water. Neutral (distilled) water has a pH of 7, but don't keep your pool or spa water neutral - keep it slightly basic, 7.2 to 7.8. The pH can be increased with a basic substance such as soda ash or lowered with acids such as muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate.
The Pool Pump • The Filters • Sand Filtration • D.E. Filtration • Cartridge Filtration
Water Chemistry • Popular Disinfectants • Chorine • Calcium Hypochorite • Sodium Hypochlorite • Stabilized Chlorines •
Bromine • Other Disinfectants • Water Balance • pH • Total Alkalinity • Calcium Hardness • Total Dissolved Solids •
Balancing Pool Water • Water Testing • Pool Vacs & Sweepers
Pool Maintenance • Daily Chores • Weekly Chores • Solving Common Problems • Cloudy, Milky Water • Malodorous, Irritating Water
Green Water • Red or Brown Water • Blue - Green Water • Blue or Black Water • Pump Problems • Sand in Pool •
Excessive Water Loss • Excessive Foaming