Adjusting Ph and Alkalinity in your pool

In this episode I will show you how simple it is to increase or decrease the pH and alkalinity of your swimming pool.
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DIY Pool Care

[@normancordovez6418]

Hello Pool School. I started having problem with my swimming pool and a friend suggested to get on You Tube to find all the answers. And that is why I'm here. You are a big help. I wanna give you a huge thank you. You're a great.

[@pmventura41]

Several years later but I’m sure your info still applies. Thank You....

[@fdolloff3776]

New pool owner here and this was an excellent and simple to understand explanation of the pH and Alkaline process. Thank you

[@PoolSchooler]

Glad it helped. Hope you'll subscribe to my channel. And if you can, also hit the thumbs up "like" icon for that video. It really helps.

[@karmaline]

Great video. First person who can explain in laymen’s terms.. thank you..

[@PoolSchooler]

I did a video on that. Here's a link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h3SYi4x9Z5yNapo. It should be very helpful

[@_Paul_N]

I’m currently in training as a pool technician, and your videos helps me so much. You’re very precise on the amounts of chemicals that are needed to be added and it’s the little things that will take you far.

[@Brasshound480]

Grab a Taylor commercial test kit and study the book like it's the Bible.

[@AlexGarcia-xg5qy]

@@Brasshound480 a⅚⁵5⁵

[@PoolSchooler]

Thank you and I wish you much success on your new venture as a pool tech.

[@DanielGarcia-gq5ge]

I wish my Pool contractor could have sent me this video the day after my pool was built. Thanks for building my confidence, just vacuumed and added some acid to my pool. It’s a bit intimidating at first.

[@PoolSchooler]

Glad it was helpful. It can feel a bit daunting but if you take it one step at a time you'll have your pool "wired" in no time.

[@Bearlove63]

Thank you Kenny, we are new pool owners and your videos are so very helpful, keep them coming!

[@PoolSchooler]

Will do. Keep on watching and sharing.

[@jackelectricman]

Two things.... You should mention that when adding a quart to 2 quarts of acid, you should correlate that to how many gallons of water is the pool Also, muriatic acid is available in various concentrations. I have seen it from as low as 19% to as high as 63%! So the concentration will definitely affect how much acid you need to add. Thanks

[@tweetiebird]

online pool calculators are great bc you can enter your test numbers and it tells you how much you need to add based on pool size and many other factors including outside temps and the saturation index (water balanced)

[@jamiewhite6593]

Do you have a link for an online calculator for this?

[@douglasj8341]

Awesome no fancy crap talk 2 look important direct 2 the point easy to grasp Luv it wish i found ur channel before i found the other 30 buggers

[@PoolSchooler]

Thank you for the complement.

[@kaylaumana3917]

I agree

[@TimHPop776]

Always great to rewatch this video! Thanks!

[@PoolSchooler]

I'm glad it's helpful. But as I said in this video, sometimes you need to raise one and w/out raising the other or some variation of that idea. I did several videos on raising one w/out raising the other and visa versa and the opposite (lowering one w/out lowering the other etc). Hope you'll watch those as well. Perhaps I should create playlists based on subject matter to help people find them easier. What do you think?

[@peterbagyinka1140]

Watch you each time I still learn it them! God bless!

[@Samlol23_drrich]

I wish I saw your video before I put a gallon of muriatic acid into my 40,000g pool. My ph went from around 8 to about 6. Dummy I am. Finally dumped in enough borax to fix that problem. Never rush again. Great video

[@domcap70]

Also that scoop is a 4lbs scoop for bicarb. And soda ash is about the same density. That size scoop is as follows: 1 lb of de, 3lbs of Cal hypo, 3lbs of cya (conditioner/stabilizer) and 4lbs of bicarb and soda ash.

[@MALEK-xi6cv]

Thanks!

[@cardo1111]

Good info. Our local Chain pool store always wants to sell you every chemical often doing a “free water test” or if you tell them what your problem is. The Taylor K-2006 water testing kit should be a staple in every pool owner’s arsenal. If you plan on doing your own pool maintenance.

[@Firekid144]

I wish I watched your video before...We bought a house with pool and not having idea how to take care of it, my wife went to a Leslie pool and come back with a bunch of unnecessary chemicals, I had to learn online and figure out that only muriatic acid, chlorine and baking soda are needed. Thank you for posting the video.

[@powerwizard8903]

You are almost correct. Sodium Bicarbonate is best to increase Alkalinity with only a minimal increase in pH. Sodium Carbonate significantly Raises pH with only a small increase in Alakinity. Sodium Hydroxide (Lye) will significantly raise pH with NO Changes in Alkalinity or Calcium carbonate - but add only in small diluted amounts to avoid pH shock (Milky Water) for a few days. Have been running pools for over 30 years.

[@PoolSchooler]

PowerWizard thanks for the clarification. Much appreciated.

[@olgalongi1086]

The soda ash is saying to dilute it but to fist turn off the pump, re-test in a couple of hours and if PH if normal to then turn on the filter and to clean to filter. Do I have to turn off the pump and clean the filter. The filter was just clean yesterday??

[@boardrfolif3]

@@PoolSchooler you should pin this plz!

[@PoolSchooler]

boardrfolif3 how do I do that.

[@jessea4280]

Another great video. Alkalinity and PH is super high in my pool.

[@PoolSchooler]

Glad this video is helpful.

[@paulwolfrey821]

Thanks kenny.Paul from Virginia.

[@PoolSchooler]

You're welcome

[@ryancoleman4155]

Yeah hi Kenny my name is Ryan I just started doing cool things on Thursday and your videos help or will help I'm just learning thanks

[@PoolSchooler]

Glad to hear it. Hope you'll subscribe to and share my channel AND please check out my premium DIY Pool Service website poolschooler.com for special exclusive pool service tools, checklists, product lists and direct chats with me to help you along the way.

[@greghull3189]

Thank you for this great informative video. Very easy to understand for us weekend warriors who maintain our pool.

[@PoolSchooler]

Glad it was helpful. Please do subscribe to my channel and share it with friends and family.

[@tomrizzo1554]

Sodium bicarb effects alkalinity alot and pH a little sodium carbonate effects pH alot and alkalinity somewhat. No need to use anything but sodium bicarb which doesn't cloud up the pool and Raises alkalinity and pH enough to be acceptable . And I'm sure you said this already but balance alkalinity first because it keeps the pH from bouncing around when alkalinity is stable.. very informative video thank you

[@PoolSchooler]

Tom rizzo Thank you for the information.

[@vcg2134]

Is it possible to have high alkalinity say 240 and low ph say 6 at the same time?

[@PoolSchooler]

Vincent Grant I’ve seen it happen once or twice out here. What I did was add granular Acid to get the Alkalinity down and then soda ash to bring the ph up. Anyone else whose experienced this and know what to do please chime in.

[@vcg2134]

@@PoolSchooler Thanks, I recently started cleaning pools and came across this situation. Love your videos and appreciate the response.

[@tomrizzo1554]

@@vcg2134 no

[@flex_007]

Your vid saved my summer. Ty so much👍🏊‍♂️

[@PoolSchooler]

Thanks for watching and commenting. I hope you’ll subscribe to my channel and share it with everyone you know who owns a pool.

[@philjerwil7]

After watching so many of these, I now feel like a pro after your explanation. Man, you did it with such confidence til I now have have some too...Thanks!

[@PoolSchooler]

Phillip Williams glad yo hear that.

[@peterbagyinka1140]

Happy new year!

[@PoolSchooler]

And to you as well.

[@louisg4845]

Great video - accurate - concise - easy to remember

[@PoolSchooler]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Please subscribe and share the channel if you feel so inclined. I much appreciate it.

[@tritran8582]

Thank you so much, learning a lot and fired my bad pool service.

[@PoolSchooler]

Glad to be of help. AND glad you were able to DIY and save your hard earned $$. Hope you subscribe to my channel and share it. ALSO I've got exciting news coming early spring so stay tuned and turn on notifications for my channel.

[@fireflylight101]

Thanks for the video. My pool is much better now.

[@PoolSchooler]

So glad to hear that. Hope you'll subscribe to and share my channel. Also please check out my website poolschooler.com

[@GhostBoogieBaby]

Man!! I'm wrecking my brain about how to reduce the alkalinity in my pool. Great video!!

[@PoolSchooler]

To be more precise I'd recommend watching this video specifically on raising or lowering the Alkalinity without affecting the pH too much. Here's a link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bGGtXoKZpMiAhtE I think it will be most helpful.

[@GhostBoogieBaby]

I might need a better filter system. It's still cloudy from hair products.

[@seniorhazard]

You are awesome! These videos are great, man!

[@PoolSchooler]

Thank you. Glad they are helpful. Hope you subscribed.

[@seniorhazard]

@@PoolSchooler I just did :)

[@PoolSchooler]

@@seniorhazard Thank you I appreciate it.

[@kalinamckee-koa-puna-kona]

MAHALOS for explaining so simple!

[@PoolSchooler]

Thank you.

[@yogidemis8513]

My first time using chemicals in a above ground pool. I figured what the hell, usually I'd just screen out grass and junk and change the water once every 7 to 10 day's, even tho I'm not using the pool everyday. It's definitely a learning experience for sure.

[@PoolSchooler]

Depending on the size of the pool that may be a lot of water to dump every week or so.

[@krizthianvalencia]

Thank you so much Mr Kenny very helpful

[@PoolSchooler]

Glad to help.

[@amybug544]

Thanks Kenny, this video is very helpful.

[@PoolSchooler]

You're welcome. And thank you for watching and commenting.

[@mariehale6973]

I have a new above ground pool 14 x 42" with saltwater system. Can you recommend a pool water test kit? Just getting up and running. It is true, the leveling is the hardest part!!!! Thank you for your help.

[@PoolSchooler]

I use the AquaCheck 7 Test Strips. I did a video on them. You can search for them on the internet. They're pretty easy to find online. Here's a link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGOyf5hvj52cgdE skip forward to 1:55

[@PoolSchooler]

For a salt water tester. I'm doing a product review of a tester that should be out in a month or so. The one I've been using is a bit confusing so I wanted to find one that was as accurate but easier to use. Stay tuned.

[@jhogan1960]

There is info on the internet that gives you dosage amounts for pools of various sizes. Best way to do it.

[@tweetiebird]

Dry acid is safer and costs more than liquid to handle and store. Muriatic has strong fumes and if haled can cause serious lung damage, too many pros for me. If you wear a 3M breathing mask rated for "fumes" and protective gear it can be safer. If you use unstablized liquid chlorine it will make the ph rise "temporarily" so I would not ad chlorine before testing ph. If I'm having a balancing issue, I test later in the day before adding chlorine.

[@seascape0881]

Thanks so much for this information! Keep the videos coming. 😊 Also you kind of mentioned after adding 1 quart of muriatic acid it is safe to swim, is that the same for 2 quarts or do you need to wait longer? And what about soda ash on swimming after?

[@PoolSchooler]

Typically it should still be safe, BUT if someone is very sensitive to chemicals (some people react very badly to even low amounts of chlorine to the pool etc, you may want to run the equipment for an hour or two after before swimming.

[@bountyfarmchickfarmchick4658]

Thank you Kenny!!!!! I will be following you for my pool care needs!!!

[@PoolSchooler]

bountyfarmchick #farmchick thank you.

[@adaelder1925]

So happy I found u Kenny 💓 💗

[@PoolSchooler]

Glad you did too. Hope you you'll subscribe.

[@angelluna2938]

Huh looks like you have the same size pool i just got..but still learning love my cool 😎 pool.

[@PoolSchooler]

Hope you'll subscribe. Also, for more great money savings DIY Pool Owner stuff check out my exclusive member website poolschooler.com

[@josephcox7458]

Great info on pool maintance. Would appreciate your guidance on process to lower Alkalinity and Ph. Pool is 65K gallons (deep end is 12 ft, shallow is 3 ft, 48 ft x 24 ftt. Over three days Ph has been tested 7.8 to 8.0 PPM, alkalinity 180 to 190 ppm. Plan is to dump 2 gallons muratic acid per day, at night and run pump over night. Then test alaklinity and ph each morning, make adjustments as needed. Let me know your reccomendations

[@PoolSchooler]

I'd probably only add 1 gallon at a time. MAKE SURE NO ONE SWIMS DURING THIS PROCESS. I'd be concerned about you over dosing and over reducing the ph and alkalinity and then having to reverse some of it. It may take a bit longer but I think it's worth it. Start with the gallon of M.A. run the system over night (no swimming) test in the morning. If your ph/alk are closer maybe add 2 quarts at a time (testing every hour or so) until it gets to ideal levels with the filter pump running. I'm just concerned about you over doing it and then having to add yet more chemicals to reverse it.

[@josephcox7458]

@@PoolSchooler Took some time, but alk and ph are within range. Overall 4 gallons muratic acid over couple weeks. Thanks for the advise!

[@PoolSchooler]

@@josephcox7458 Way to go..Like Aesop's fable about the Crow and the Pitcher: "Slowly but surely does the trick". 😉

[@TimHPop776]

Great reference video!! 👍

[@PoolSchooler]

Thanks for watching.

[@steven.h0629]

Question for Kenny: Howdy Kenny.. I'm curious about rubber / plastic / pvc longevity when constantly exposed to the Sun. I see your pool in the background, and you zoom in on the PVC portion the wraps (loops) around the support frame rails.. the 'loop' is exposed to the sun. Does that portion harden, crack, deteriorate? Do you have to take measures to prevent Sun damage?

[@PoolSchooler]

They do indeed. Most above ground pools don't last more than 4 years in the intense Arizona sun/heat. I'm sure if you covered the "rails" with something like a foam cushion or something it would extend the life but typically there's really not a lot one can do. That pool came with a "tarp" cover but putting it on every night etc was a pain and increased the heat so we never used it.

[@steven.h0629]

@@PoolSchooler Thanks Kenny! 🤜💥🤛

[@erickrhernandez1451]

Hello there pool teacher, have you created a video on proper measurements when pouring chemicals into pools? For example pouring 1/4 of muratic acid into a measuring cup? Or explaining on how to properly measure 3oz. of algaecide into a “Home Depot Bucket”. Explain what ratios mean and how they look like (for visual people like myself). Does measurements have to be “on point”?

[@PoolSchooler]

It's been my experience that with some things you don't have to be "super" on point with. Muriatic Acid I usually add by the quart so w/my 1 gallon jugs of it I use about 1/4 of it. The only thing I'm really sticky on is the PH 10000 Phosphate remover (it's pricey and I don't want to waste it). Also I have a 1 and 2 lb scoop that I use for those chems that need to be measured that way. Algaecides I don't use this video will explain: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6uqoH5qeMlqqsUfeature=shared Hope that helps.

[@romandutch4608]

Thank you for explaining it really good, it was really helpful new sub

[@PoolSchooler]

Glad it helped. Hope you’ll subscribe and share and please check out my website poolschooler.com.

[@crfmusician]

Hi Kenny...great tutorial videos... Question: i have 2 types of water testing, a deep stick and a testing tube droops. The stick says PH and Alkalynity is high and droops says it's ok ...how do i deal with this .thanks in advance.

[@PoolSchooler]

There often are slight variations in the readings you get from different test kits and/or strips so as long as they are not dramatically different you should be fine. Remember you're keeping those levels in the ideal "RANGE" so you have some wiggle room.

[@Gersberms]

Very nice info, thanks. I don't understand the cost effectiveness of soda ash, today I found bags of 15 lbs of bicarb of soda (= sodium bicarbonate/baking soda) for $9. That stuff is cheap. Am I right that it does not disappear once your total alkalinity is good? Does it break down in any way, other than by adding muriatic acid? BTW, acid + baking soda turns into table salt. You're literally converting baking soda into salt so only do that as necessary.

[@PoolSchooler]

Soda ash is more for raising the pH of your pool and not so much the Alkalinity, whereas Bicarb is for raising the alkalinity w/out raising the pH. Hope that helps. So if you're wanting to raise the pH then use soda ash but to raise the alkalinity use bicarb. Also the cloudiness caused initially by both should dissipate w/in a couple hours after adding (make sure the pump is running to help).

[@peterbagyinka1140]

Hi sir! I have a reading problem?i made my testing with the testing kit (the little testing bottles & the color test device) and i needed 9 drops of#3 which gives me90 ppm! Now this #of 90 is my water reading from the pool what i have ppm in my pool orthats the amount i have to rise! Shop tested the water it came out 78 ppm i need 80_1 2 0 ppm! Completile confused!

[@PoolSchooler]

Peter Bagyinka Hi Peter, this is exactly why I suggest using test strips. But usually test kits or test strips give you a reading of what your current ppm is not what it should be. Usually on the test kits with the liquid colors there is a color bar to the side of the tube that you run the test in to tell you what the color should look like at a certain level.

[@phyllistinagutheil8261]

Can I keep my chlorine tab in the floater in the pool while I put the baking soda in the pool?

[@PoolSchooler]

Absolutely.

[@123lenu]

Thank you for the video. Local pool store sold me Phos Free type for 60$. Will follow your advice strictly from next time.

[@marwan6767]

Hello how you been. Hopefully busy. Question sometimes my Alkalinity is higher than ph. Or pH way higher than alkaline. What we do here ?

[@PoolSchooler]

Great question. I did two separate videos on those specifically. Please watch them. They'll answer your question exactly: pH: kzbin.info/www/bejne/omiUepyfadqNnbs Alkalinity: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bGGtXoKZpMiAhtE Also, check out poolschooler.com for more money saving tools and tips.

[@Peter-Alexander]

Thanks Mr Kenny. I have used acid for quite some time to lower pH in my swg pool. Would you advise to turn off the swg when I have added acid? I was thinking of H+ ions (of the acid) reacting immediately with OH- inside the swg creating water 😅. So making the acid less effective. Up to now I have always let it switched on...

[@PoolSchooler]

@@Peter-Alexander unfortunately it doesn’t appear that I am as well-versed in chemistry as you are. However, in my experience, I have never been taught or heard of or done myself turning off the SWG adding acid to the pool.

[@sheilakelemen6985]

Thank you for all the information

[@PoolSchooler]

You’re welcome, and I hope you will subscribe to my channel and share it with your friends.

[@babybear4524]

If I have the arm and hammer clear pool tablets how many do I use for a 10000 gallon pool and do I put them in the filter or the chlorine holder? Thx

[@PoolSchooler]

This video might help kzbin.info/www/bejne/aXPMh6Z-fbOUiZofeature=shared

[@brendaeliot1768]

You really sound like you know what your talking about. Having said that we just left a pool place and they told us to use muriatic acid but to not turn the pool on maybe I misunderstood it but that doesn’t seem quite right to me .

[@PoolSchooler]

Brenda Eliot hello Brenda. I would disagree with the pool place. Although I do understand their reasoning. Some people believe that when the pool filter is running the acidic water to go through the filter and get filtered out, I completely disagree with that though, the acid is not taken off molecularly to be filtered out if that were the case, then your filter would filter out all the chlorine and all the acid etc. And that’s just not true. The reason you want the filter running is that it moves the water around in the pool and distributes the chemical more rapidly into the entire pool. Thanks again for watching and for your question.

[@normandofranca5430]

Great video, I learn a lot. Thanks

[@PoolSchooler]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching and please do subscribe and share.

[@imAgreza]

Great videos. Helping a lot. What kind of hat is that boss? It’s sharp

[@PoolSchooler]

I got it at WalMart several years ago. They just had a bunch of them for sale and I picked up a couple.

[@yousifalqallaf8095]

great man just great video .. keep it up

[@PoolSchooler]

Thank you Yousif. Hope you will subscribe and for more $$ saving tools and stuff check out my website poolschooler.com

[@jamalbenthall151]

How do you know how much chemicals to add ? Can you do a video on that ?

[@PoolSchooler]

I've done one several videos on adding chemicals, depending on the issue (ie: low pH etc). I'll try to do one that covers the main chemicals: BUT generally: for liquid acid one to two quarts at a time. For soda ash or bicarb one to two pounds at a time. To be honest when it comes to things like liquid chlorine it depends on the size of the pool and how low or high the level of that particular measure you have. If you have a specific one (ie: ph or alkalinity) I can assist you better.

[@TimHPop776]

Adding Muriatic Acid!! Level was over 9.0. 🙄 So, I will add 1 qt and see where we are in a few hours. Thanks

[@themanorSka]

Superb info thanks 👍

[@jaredebeling1412]

What if test strips show normal ph level but very low alkalinity? Should I put in bicarbonate soda to raise alkalinity?

[@PoolSchooler]

You are correct, typically to raise alkalinity without having too much of an impact on PHU use bicarbonate of soda, to raise pH without having a substantial impact on alkalinity you would want to use soda ash.

[@grassthief1280]

Hello how about if you need to lower PH & raise TA, what do you use without affecting the other also which 1 do you adjust first 👍

[@PoolSchooler]

I did two separate videos (one on each) for situations where the two don't always "line" up. They're pretty short. Here's links: Ph: kzbin.info/www/bejne/omiUepyfadqNnbs Alkalinity: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bGGtXoKZpMiAhtE Doesn't really matter which one you adjust first.

[@elitheblogger1002]

Thank you for your advice! well, explain!

[@PoolSchooler]

Glad to be of help. Hope you will subscribe to my channel and share it with others.

[@johneggleston3516]

Sodium Bicarbonate is inexpensive and the best way to raise alkalinity A 50 # bag is pennies per pound. Once alkalinity is between 80-120 ppm, then adjust ph. Please run your pump 24/7..

[@michellepotter5397]

Could I use Soda ash or bicarb of soda to my pool if I am using Luster Blue? I got rid of the sand because it was just throwing out sand in my pool. Frustrating when you just got done vacuuming pool. This is the first time using the Luster Blue and I was told to be careful on the chemicals I use because you don't want it breaking the laterals in the filter.

[@PoolSchooler]

I've not had any experience with this product so I'd refer to the manufactures label and see if there is anything that says you shouldn't use Bicarb or Soda Ash with them.

[@michellepotter5397]

@@PoolSchooler , Ok, Thank you very much for getting back to me. I will contact the manufacture and see if they can give me any advice.

[@tacticalsmokebreak]

Thank you so much. Subscribed!

[@PoolSchooler]

Thank you for subscribing.

[@richiek597]

Are you talking about a salt based swimming pool?

[@thefaithfulfarmermommathe_2111]

What an awesome tool! My question...... Usually how long does it take to clear back up after using the sodium bicarbonate???? If it takes longer than two days, does that mean something is wrong with my filter?

[@Insane247714]

it shouldn't take more than several minutes from my experience. longer than a day and it might be something else.

[@PoolSchooler]

I agree. Usually it should clear up quickly. I’ve seen it take an hour or so. But if it’s taking a lot longer to clear up run your filter so there is circulation which can help that or I would consider how long it has been since you changed your water. See my video on changing your pool water.

[@Brasshound480]

Check the total dissolved solids in your pool, they are likely too high.

[@jaymeproctor2475]

My water is cloudy! Ph is normal and watching this video, I will be adding the stuff to the eater but will the Bromine & ph being off make the water cloudy?

[@PoolSchooler]

Typically no. You may have a phosphate problem. Or it could be your filter media.

[@mrpeartssandwich]

How much of each product do we use? I have a 5,000 gallon above ground pool.

[@PoolSchooler]

I really depends on the pH and alkalinity levels. But, as I say in the video: No more than 2 qts of liquid muriatic acid, no more than 2 lbs of soda ash, bicarb of soda or dry granular acid at a time.

[@lynnecook3781]

I just added new water and followed your directions but this morning the ph is still high and alkaline good so add ph minus. can a product go bad it always has been raining all day in St George in June. aaahhh How long to see results, overnight so should I use muriatic acid if tomorrow not where it needs to be?

[@PoolSchooler]

NOTE: Rain water has it's on ph and alkalinity so if you have a lot of rain that can change your pool chemistry. Pool chemicals can go bad or lose their efficacy for several reasons including time, and exposure to extreme heat or evaporation or some combination of them. ALSO, I wouldn't stress a ton over getting the pH and alkalinity perfect. Honestly, like I said before, the rain can bring it's own ph and alkalinity and affect your pool's so the big thing for your start up is getting the CYA right (remember keep it at the low end of ideal - 30ppm is plenty) and get the chlorine up. Then just do the best you can with the pH and alkalinity on a weekly basis and enjoy your pool.

[@jameslucas5171]

I have an issue where my PH is high and my Alkalinity is low. The pool was re-plastered 6 months ago. I add an average of 16 oz. muriatic acid per day to keep the PH under 7.8 ppm. The last 3 times that I checked my alkalinity (May 22, July 2, Aug 8), it was at 60 ppm. Each time I added baking soda to raise back up to 80 ppm. Your video explains that soda ash and baking soda will raise the PH. Apparently putting in a constant supply of muriatic acid to control the PH is also lowering my alkalinity below an acceptable level. How can I prevent this? Do you have any recommendations, or should I keep doing the same thing. Thank you, Jim

[@PoolSchooler]

Try using bicarbonate of soda to bring your alkalinity back up without affecting the ph.

[@PoolSchooler]

Part of the issue may very well be the residual chemicals from the re plastering. I had one client who had their pool replastered and the plaster they used caused all kinds of problems with the pool chemistry. The ended up replastering again with a different product (the one they had that caused the problems was made by 3M- BUT not sure the product specifically). For Ph and Alkalinity remember this: High Ph, use Liquid muriatic acid to bring the levels down. High Alkalinity, use dry acid to bring the level down without affecting the ph much. Low Ph, use soda ash to bring the level back up without affecting the alkalinity too much. Low Alkalinity, use bicarbonate of soda to raise it without affecting the ph too much. Hope that helps.

[@Aviation_Professional]

Is there a way to lower pH WITHOUT LOWERING TA? I have a rock feature in the pool and balancing the 2 has been impossible with my copper ion system. Right now TA is 80 but pH is 8 and when I try to lower pH ... TA also comes down sadly!

[@PoolSchooler]

I did a video on this. Here's. a link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/omiUepyfadqNnbs. Hope it helps.

[@MD-nk6xo]

It’s my first day of pool , just finished filling up the pool , what should I poor now ? The basics?? Poor miuraticacid and shock ?? Thanks

[@PoolSchooler]

Watch my video on start up chemicals and how to add them. Here's a link to it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5KXkmWGfLaWa6c

[@universaldonor3100]

When we replaster pools we can tell from the vertical streaks/etchings on the pool walls where acid was added by pouring the acid along the edge of the pool as you walk….just saying..

[@PoolSchooler]

Interesting. I've never noticed that in all the acid washes I've done. BUT I have noticed when the acid mix gets on the tile and bleeds the color onto the plaster, YUK! 👍😉

[@johnnybravo508]

Question my pool is a 20k gallon pool and ph /alkalinity are at the high readings ph 8.4 do I start with the 2qrts of muriatic acid? Thank you!

[@PoolSchooler]

That’s what I start with. Run your pump motor for an hour or two during and after retest at that time and repeat as needed till it’s in the ideal range

[@natural-born_pilot]

Thanks for the great video it was done very well. I noticed you use all major steps taught top instructors such as your brief repeat of all the important items and steps. I was always told the amount of acid to add for high ph depends on the total gallons of your pool. For my pool of 12,000 gal I'm always instructed to add no more than 16 oz and to dilute the muriatic acid in pool water together in a bucket before adding it to the pool water.

[@mikemeyer9819]

is jacks magic tile plus stuff good for cleaning a pool with water in it?

[@PoolSchooler]

I’m not familiar with that product.

[@janellelongwe1778]

Thank you. This was very helpful!

[@PoolSchooler]

So glad to hear it. Please subscribe to and share my channel.

[@ByronRivera]

Awesome! Thanks for the information!

[@PoolSchooler]

You're welcome. Please subscribe.

[@Cocora22]

Was wondering if you can help. I use liquid chlorine, but I do have an inline chlorinator which makes things super convenient. Right now I have my CH at 275, FC 5, PH, 7.3, TA 100, CYA 40, .I'd like to use Trichlor like you suggested in one of your videos and was wondering what brand you think is best to keep in the chlorinator in small quantities to maybe supplement the liquid chlorine? Good or bad idea? Should I add some Calcium chlorine to raise the calcium level a little bit? Gunite/plaster pool. second season on this plaster, opened April 1st. I use muriatic acid to lower PH as needed, regular baking soda also as needed and I did add some of the Orenda for the phosphates.

[@PoolSchooler]

I use either EZ Chlor's Granular Algae Out or Pool Season's Super Algae Destroyer. Both work equally well. Honestly with an inline chlorinator you shouldn't have to supplement your chlorine with liquid or TriChlor.

[@Cocora22]

@@PoolSchooler I think I may have not explained clearly . I have to put pucks in this chlorinator. The pucks they sell me at the local shop are ok but they have a blue color and it says they have copper, which I understand is not a good thing. Also I’m not suppose to use granules in there.

[@PoolSchooler]

@@Cocora22 Ah, Ok. gotcha. So, the chlorine tablets I usually get are made by a wholesale manufacturer so you wouldn't be able to get those. I'd suggest Pool Season or EZ Chlor. Either of those are good. Also Clorox tablets are good too. You should be able to find good tablets at your local pool supply store, or Walmart .

[@Jrbrass]

Question: This year. went from 20 year plaster to Pebble Sheen. For some reason, I have yet to put in Muratic Acid. Seems with the new Pebble Sheen, the PH & Alkalinity is always low. I don't pee in my pool, yes is Arizona it rains. The only thing I can think of is it's my suntan lotion that is causing my PH & Alkalinity to always be low. So, it seems like I'm always putting in baking soda in order to maintain the right balance of PH & Alkalinity. Love your videos by the way. Myself and all of us learn so much from them. Is this normal? Thank you!

[@PoolSchooler]

It could very well be the chemicals used in the pebble sheen. I remember a 3m plaster that used something in their plaster that caused the pools ph and alkalinity to always be low. So it may be something similar. It may improve over time.

[@lnewso1156]

My water was great for about 3 weeks. Thought for sure my problem had been solved...then we had a huge amt of rain and my water has been green ever since. My chlorine is fine, but I continually have a high ph and a low alkalinity. I add baking soda to bring A up and then I have to add acid to bring ph down. I seem to be the only one that constantly has this issue. I only add small amts of acid around the edge of pool.

[@PoolSchooler]

I’m almost certain your issue is phosphates. Please watch these two videos I really think they’ll solve your problem. Algae and Algaecides and Why You Don’t Need Them: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6uqoH5qeMlqqsU Clearing a Green Pool: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o3Kbc6KDmpx8jK8

[@maryannebeyer8934]

Excellent .. Thanks kenny ..

[@PoolSchooler]

You're welcome. I hope your subscribe to my channel and share it with your pool owning friends and family.

[@petermuradyan1701]

Thank you it really helps

[@PoolSchooler]

Hope you'll check out poolschooler.com

[@lifeisrandom23]

Hello Ken. Quick question for you...I ran out of the #3 solution for my poolmaster 5-way test kit for testing Alkalinity. Is this solution the same as muriatic acid? Sorry if this is a dumb question, I just couldn't find any information on that and I'm not sure if I can use any other brand of #3 Alkalinity reagent as I don't need all the other #'s. Thanks again for your awesome content!

[@PoolSchooler]

Unfortunately I don't know what the #3 regent is. Yet another reason I prefer the test strips. Sorry I can't be of any more help.

[@lifeisrandom23]

@@PoolSchooler Go it. no worries. Sorry, It's the one that tests for acid demand and alkalinity. I ordered some from ebay. Hopefully it's good. Thanks just the same!

[@vicm6561]

I’m learning Don’t Use the 3” tablets the stabilizer will send your CYA numbers off the chart . I only use them when we leave for vacation

[@PoolSchooler]

I think sending the CYA numbers off the chart is a bit of an extreme comment. In Arizona most pool service people use tablets cause they are more convenient and consistent for once a week visits. AND although they do contain CYA, with normal/typical amount of tablets we use every year it may raise the CYA level slightly. Please watch my video on CYA to find out more: kzbin.info/www/bejne/lauYZoZ4qM-Umtk It usually takes about 5 years for the cya levels to get high enough to have to consider changing the water.

[@vicm6561]

@@PoolSchooler 6000 gallons swim spa new gunite resurface so new fill. 2 months using 3” tablets CYA 300 ppm plus ( they can only test to certain high) all 3 pool companies in my area did water analysis all said “please consider draining your pool “ high CYA. I asked where does the cya come from? The stabilizer ( sunscreen ) in the 3” tablets. How do you get rid of it ? Consider draining half the water in the pool or when the summer rains come that will dilute the water enough. Their advice Only use 3” tablets when your going on vacation . Oh and I tested my neighbors pool who has a service and yes CYA was dark purple ( almost off the chart)

[@PoolSchooler]

@@vicm6561 Sounds like when they did the start up chemicals at for your pool they may have over dosed it with CYA thus you already started out with too much CYA in your pool. I've seen that happen with far too many pool service people doing this. I've NEVER heard of or experienced ANYONE ever having the CYA go up that high after using 3" tablets for only 2 months unless they started with too much cya when the start up chems were added. Watch this video and skip to 1:34 and watch from there to explain what I mean: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5KXkmWGfLaWa6c Hope this helps.

[@florencedispensa310]

Thank you! What happeneds if ph doesn’t lower after adding the acid?

[@PoolSchooler]

Add another quart and retest in a couple of hours repeat that process until the level gets to the ideal range.

[@okinawasdojo4103]

Excellent brother. Thanks. Very honest and direct information.

[@ruffcuts12]

Love all the info from your videos! Question, Is it ok to put the chlorine tablet in the skimmer basket rather than a free floating chlorine disperser?

[@PoolSchooler]

You can occasionally but I'd not do it regularly. The table(s) will erode much more quickly when the pump is running and because the tablets are in direct contact with the plastic skimmer basked, it'll wear out your basket much quicker. I'd suggest the floater for your regular chlorine tablet use.

[@boardrfolif3]

Chiming in - you'll also have a higher level of chlorine than you'd want in the plumbing after the skimmer, causing quicker deterioration of path between skimmer and return. Aka your pump and filter will be taking a beating. Worth the $30 investment of a floater, they don't look so bad you hardly notice it after a while

[@karttu1]

So soda acid is the same stuff as pH plus?

[@PoolSchooler]

No Soda Ash is the same as pH Plus (which is Sodium Carbonate). Soda Ash is also Sodium Carbonate.

[@irievijar9385]

Hai master good day , how can i make my light green pool to blue. Thank you very much

[@PoolSchooler]

Irie Vijar I believe this video will help. kzbin.info/www/bejne/joqQc3Sad75jsKs

[@PoolSchooler]

Irie Vijar this one may be helpful too. kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6uqoH5qeMlqqsU

[@irievijar9385]

Thank you soo much

[@happylifetoday772]

My salt pool's Ph is always over 8. Every single week. Is this OK. This is after adding 1/2 gallon of acid every week. Should I add Borax to the pool to help with this?

[@PoolSchooler]

It's been my experience that salt pools tend to have high pH (maybe not everyone's but those of my clients who have salt pools ALWAYS have high pH). I'm not sure why that is. But try adding a quart of liquid muriatic acid a week to the pool to keep it from going higher. Honestly the pH inn my clients with salt pools, although higher like you've experienced, doesn't go above that if we don't add acid. Unfortunately I'm not a chemist so I don't know why that is. But perhaps try not adding acid for a couple of weeks and if the pH doesn't continue to go up you may consider leaving it where it is and not spending the extra money trying to get the pH down and add so much acid to your pool which swimmers then bathe in.

[@tamarakennedy4976]

My pool is cloudy and im cleaning my filter twice up to 4 times a day. Help..my alkalinity is high my pH is low.

[@PoolSchooler]

I have specific videos for alkalinity and ph. For alkalinity: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bGGtXoKZpMiAhtE For Ph: kzbin.info/www/bejne/omiUepyfadqNnbs

[@andrewtaylor5421]

Thank you for this.

[@kalinamckee-koa-puna-kona]

Aloha...new pool . My PH is testing normal but alkalinity is testing low. Do I still add sodium Bicarbonate?

[@PoolSchooler]

I did two other videos because some pool do have opposite readings on their ph and alkalinity. Watch these and they'll answer your questions: Adjusting the Alkalinity of your Pool: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bGGtXoKZpMiAhtE Adjusting the pH of your Pool Water: kzbin.info/www/bejne/omiUepyfadqNnbs Aloha.

[@hkdanahui]

Thanks! We're in progress of increasing alkalinity, but the pH has sky-rocketed at the same time. Wonder if we should lower the pH before further adding baking soda? or should get to fix alkalinity before attending the pH?

[@PoolSchooler]

I'd suggest getting the alkalinity under control and then working on the pH.

[@hkdanahui]

@@PoolSchooler Thanks for the suggestion! We tried adding more baking soda but then the pool turned cloudy. Seems like we dont really have choices but to take care pH for now.

[@PoolSchooler]

@@hkdanahui Is your filter clean? That seems strange that your pool will turn cloudy with baking soda or bicarbonate of soda. Typically soda ash or sodium carbonate will cloud up in a pool but once it dissolves it dissipates and clears up.

[@hkdanahui]

​@@PoolSchooler Pool suddenly turned cloudy on a morning! We backwashed the (sand) filter and added 1 Lit of acid to the pool for 2 days, now it's cleared up. We just moved in this new place for few months, a crash course on pool management indeed! The sand filter has been used for 3 yrs, not sure on its condition. The pressure gauge was broken, cant tell if it's clean. Got a new gauge ordered, will replace it. Also plan to apply clarifier when pH is stablised. What do you think?

[@PoolSchooler]

@@hkdanahui Clarifier is fine to use (but not too often). I'm almost certain the pool turned cloudy because of the sand filter needing to be backwashed. Typically you should backwash a sand filter every 1-2 weeks during the swim season and then every 2-4 week in the off season.

[@jamesmorris7074]

Well done!

[@PoolSchooler]

Thank you. Hope you’ll subscribe to and share my channel.

[@SilentNoMore64]

You're a lifesaver! Thanks for helping me get my pool right. : )

[@arcorob]

I am slightly confused. My PH is slightly low and alkalinity slightly high ..so how do I ADD to reduce alkalinity but not further lower PH ?

[@oaxacabean9797]

I usually add a bit of acid to lower my ph when it’s high, and then add bicarb to raise the ph and alkalinity at the same time. All in the total span of like 30 min. i don’t wait 24 hours to check my water again. is that bad?

[@PoolSchooler]

I'd maybe give it a bit more than 30 minutes. Maybe let it mix in for at least an hour or two.