How to Increase Pool pH: Step-by-Step Guide with Dosing

Step-by-Step Guide to Raising Pool pH

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.

Tools & Supplies You'll Need

See Our Top Robotic Pool Cleaner Picks

Stop Scrubbing. Start Swimming.

AD

WYBOT cordless robotic pool cleaners handle floors, walls, and waterlines — while you do literally anything else. No hoses. No suction lines. Drop it in, pull it out clean.

Shop Bestsellers See New Releases

Code FirstWYBOT = $10 off orders $90+. Free shipping on all orders.

20 Years in the Pool Industry Up to 3-Year Warranty Trusted in 40+ Countries 100+ Industry Awards 20 Years in the Pool Industry Up to 3-Year Warranty Trusted in 40+ Countries 100+ Industry Awards

Still need help? Ask a Pool & Spa Expert

Get a personalized answer from PoolGuy810 — 30 years owning a pool and spa repair company. Describe your issue and get step-by-step help.

Chat with a Pool Expert 1,742 pool owners helped · Avg response under 5 min