High Alkalinity/Low PH

Problems relating to pH and total alkalinity.
Increase ph, increase TA. Reduce pH, reduce TA.
pH chemistry advice and techniques for the pool.
kelcal
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Joined: Tue 14 Jun, 2016 11:11
My Pool: 21x41 Oval, Above Ground, Vinyl liner, New sand filter

High Alkalinity/Low PH

Postby kelcal » Tue 14 Jun, 2016 11:20

Our pool chemistry has been off since we opened the pool - I suspect it was messed up when we closed it too. Our alkalinity is around 200, and the PH is low. I added half a gallon of muriatic acid yesterday (as a slug at the end of the pool), and it did bring the alkalinity down, but it brought the PH down as well. We had an algae problem, but that seems to be cleared up. The water was very cloudy, but we can see to the bottom now. However, it seems like the water has a slight blue color, and is definitely not crystal clear. Should I add more acid and then use a PH increaser? I am really at a loss at this point. As a side note, is it safe to swim in even if we don't have the chemistry quite fixed?


chem geek
Pool Industry Leader
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Joined: Thu 21 Jun, 2007 21:27
Location: San Rafael, California

Re: High Alkalinity/Low PH

Postby chem geek » Wed 15 Jun, 2016 10:20

You should not have used the slug method which can damage your pool surfaces. The proper way to lower TA is through a COMBINATION of acid addition AND aeration of the water as described in this sticky.
kelcal
I'm new here
I'm new here
Posts: 2
Joined: Tue 14 Jun, 2016 11:11
My Pool: 21x41 Oval, Above Ground, Vinyl liner, New sand filter

Re: High Alkalinity/Low PH

Postby kelcal » Wed 15 Jun, 2016 20:40

Thank you! I received several recommendations for the slug method, so we gave it a try-hopefully it won't cause any damage! We are trying the aeration method now. I appreciate the information!
chem geek
Pool Industry Leader
Pool Industry Leader
Posts: 2381
Joined: Thu 21 Jun, 2007 21:27
Location: San Rafael, California

Re: High Alkalinity/Low PH

Postby chem geek » Thu 16 Jun, 2016 23:47


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