How to Check the ph in Pools

Maintaining the proper pH for your swimming pool not only keeps it clear and beautiful, it also provides a healthy water environment for swimmers and prevents pool equipment damage from corrosion and scale formation. The simplest way to prevent this is to check the water pH levels daily.

Step One

Purchase a pool pH test kit from a local pool supply company or home improvement store. Kits contain specially treated strips and a color comparison chart for determining the pH reading or the water. They are easy to use, and give a good idea of the pool's overall water condition.

Step Two

Dip the strip in the pool, wait a couple of minutes for the chemicals on the test paper strip to process and compare to the chart provided with the kit. The ideal pH reading for a pool is between 7.2 and 7.6 on the pH scale with 7.2 being best for overall water health and swimmer comfort. When this water is within this range the strip will display a pink to purple color

Step Three

If the result is not within the optimal range and the color appears as gold on the test strip, the pool is too acidic. The pool must be brought back in balance by adding pH increaser which can be purchased at home improvement. Increased acidity can cause eye irritation and corrosion to the pool.

Step Four

If the result is not within the optimal range and the color appears as a red on the test strip, the pool is too alkaline. In this situation, a pH decreaser must be added to the pool. This item can be purchased at many home improvement stores and pool supply outlets. Pools with high alkalinity are cloudy and scaly, and the water can be unhealthful for swimmers, as it can cause skin irritation.

Step Five

After adding either pH increaser or pH decreaser, re-test the water with the above procedure. Keep doing this until the optimal color is reached on the chart.