PH reading

[rarebreed]

I've had my 24ft round pool since '87 and never had this situation. My PH test color is a very dark reddish orange, similar to a very high chlorine level, but somewhere outside the PH color scale. Am I too high or too low, and how much of what should I add to get it within proper range? I have never been outside the test kit color range before.

[Swim Today]

Darker colors on most test kits usually mean to high a level. If it is that high that it's off the chart try adding a ph down or ph minus to the water. In your case where you don't know the exact reading and with a 24' round pool try adding about 3lbs of the ph down and see where that puts you. You can also bring a water sample to a pool store in your area. A lot of them now feature computerized testing which can give you a more exact reading beyond what a regular test kit may register on where your ph may be.

[Bjorn]

Good idea to have the water tested - or you can also start with hydrochloric acid into skimmers - a little at a time - and try to do your tests again.

[rarebreed]

Darker colors on most test kits usually mean to high a level. If it is that high that it's off the chart try adding a ph down or ph minus to the water. In your case where you don't know the exact reading and with a 24' round pool try adding about 3lbs of the ph down and see where that puts you. You can also bring a water sample to a pool store in your area. A lot of them now feature computerized testing which can give you a more exact reading beyond what a regular test kit may register on where your ph may be.

Well thanks. In all the years I've had this pool there's been a bucket of PH minus on the shelf. Never had to use it ....... til now. But I'll get a new one and give it a shot.

[czechmate]

Acid in the skimmer is not exactly wise suggestion. Even beginer knows that much.