Tools & Supplies Needed
pool test kit
sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate
safety glasses
chemical-resistant gloves
measuring cup or scale
Find on Amazon:
Taylor K-2006C Pool Test Kit ,
Pure Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) ,
Sodium Bicarbonate Pool Grade
Quick Answer
The most effective way to increase pool pH is by adding sodium carbonate (soda ash) for quick increases or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) for gradual increases. Always test your current pH level first, calculate the proper dosage based on your pool size, and add chemicals to circulating water for even distribution.
Step-by-Step Guide to Raising Pool pH
- Test Your Current pH Level
Use a reliable test kit like the Taylor K-2006C or digital pH meter to get an accurate reading. Test the water at elbow depth, away from return jets and skimmers. Record your current pH - ideal range is 7.4-7.6. - Calculate Required Chemical Amount
For sodium carbonate (soda ash): Add 6 oz per 10,000 gallons to raise pH by 0.2 units. For sodium bicarbonate (baking soda): Add 1.5 lbs per 10,000 gallons to raise pH by 0.1 units. Scale these amounts based on your pool size and desired pH increase. - Choose Your pH Increaser
Sodium carbonate works faster but can cause cloudiness if added too quickly. Sodium bicarbonate is gentler and also raises total alkalinity, making it ideal when both pH and TA are low. - Prepare for Chemical Addition
Turn on your pool pump and ensure good circulation. Never add chemicals to still water. Put on safety glasses and gloves - both chemicals are caustic and can cause burns. - Add Chemical to Pool Water
Slowly broadcast the chemical over the deep end of the pool while walking around the perimeter. Never dump chemicals in one spot. For large amounts, split the dose and add over 30-60 minutes. - Allow Circulation Time
Let the pump run for at least 4-6 hours to fully distribute the chemicals. Avoid swimming during this time, especially if you've added sodium carbonate which can cause temporary cloudiness. - Retest and Adjust
After 6-8 hours, retest your pH level. If it's still below 7.4, repeat the process with a smaller dose. If you overshoot above 7.8, you'll need to lower pH using muriatic acid. - Monitor Total Alkalinity
Check your total alkalinity (TA) levels, as pH adjustments can affect TA. Target range is 80-120 ppm for regular pools, 60-80 ppm for salt water pools. If TA is too high after raising pH, you may need to lower it separately.
Important Safety Considerations
Never mix chemicals directly together - this can cause dangerous reactions. Always add chemicals to water, never water to chemicals. Store chemicals in a cool, dry place away from children and pets. If you accidentally add too much chemical, dilution with fresh water may be necessary.
When pH Won't Stay Up
If your pH consistently drops shortly after treatment, check these factors:
- Low total alkalinity acts as a pH buffer - raise TA first using sodium bicarbonate
- Heavy bather loads introduce acids that consume pH
- Organic contamination from algae or debris creates acid conditions
- Acidic source water may require regular pH maintenance
- Over-chlorination with trichlor tablets (acidic) will constantly lower pH
Dosing Chart for Different Pool Sizes
For sodium carbonate (quick pH increase):
- 15,000 gallon pool: 9 oz to raise pH by 0.2
- 20,000 gallon pool: 12 oz to raise pH by 0.2
- 25,000 gallon pool: 15 oz to raise pH by 0.2
- 30,000 gallon pool: 18 oz to raise pH by 0.2
For sodium bicarbonate (gradual increase):
- 15,000 gallon pool: 2.25 lbs to raise pH by 0.1
- 20,000 gallon pool: 3 lbs to raise pH by 0.1
- 25,000 gallon pool: 3.75 lbs to raise pH by 0.1
- 30,000 gallon pool: 4.5 lbs to raise pH by 0.1
Alternative Methods
Aeration can naturally raise pH by driving off carbon dioxide. Run water features, fountains, or point return jets upward to increase surface agitation. This method is slow but chemical-free. Some pool owners use this technique overnight before adding chemicals.
Liquid sodium carbonate is available and eliminates measuring powder, but costs more than dry chemicals. It's easier to distribute evenly and won't cloud the water as readily as powder forms.
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