Why is the pH level so important for your pool?

The pH level of your pool is something you absolutely need to watch closely. Every week, you should use a test kit to know the levels. Ideally, you want them to be as close as possible to 7.2. However, anything between 7.0 and 7.6 is considered acceptable and you have nothing more to do. However, if the level is too high or too low, you must balance it by adding various chemicals.

If the amount is less than 7.0, it is considered too acidic. If the amount is greater than 7.6, it is considered alkaline. Many effects can occur when the pH level is not balanced. You do not want to let this happen, as this can lead to problems you will not want to deal with.

When there is too much acid in the water, it can damage your pool. This will depend on the type of material used to make your pool. Those of plaster are the most susceptible to damage. Even if you can not easily see the damage, they are there. Instead of having a smooth surface, tiny groves form. In these groves, bacteria and algae are likely to form. As a result, you will find that it becomes more and more difficult to keep your pool clean as it should.

The acid will also cause corrosion of any type of metal in the pool. This can include fittings, ladders and even the connectors on your pump. This corrosion can affect the way these elements adapt because it will weaken them. Finally, you will have to replace them. You will also find that our pool is more susceptible to sulphate stains that are released. These spots can be brown, black or reddish and they will certainly stand out from the beauty of your pool.

Too much acid will also absorb the chlorine you put in the water. This means that it will become cloudy and more algae and bacteria will form. You will notice a strong smell of chlorine, even if it contains less. This explains the burning of the eyes and drying of the skin. Too many homeowners think they need to add more and more chlorine, but the problem is really the acid because of the bad pH level.

There are consequences when the pH level is too alkaline. The same results can occur with regard to burning eyes and dry skin. So when you have these symptoms, it is wise to immediately check the pH levels in the pool. The pool will also become very dirty as most of the chlorine you put in will become ineffective. In fact, you will need to add eight times the normal amount to achieve the same results when the pH level is too alkaline. The water will be very cloudy and it is something that makes it very unattractive.

This will also result in calcium buildup that can lead to various types of stains. If you do not, you will notice black spots developing along the waterline all around your pool. If you have a sand filter, you will find that it does not work as it should. Due to calcium, the sand will become heavier than it should and it will not filter properly.