What Is Total Alkalinity In Your Swimming Pool?

Total alkalinity is the measure of your waters capacity to neutralize acid.  It’s very easy to confuse total alkalinity with pH.  Interestingly enough, alkalinity is the buffer that controls how pH moves.  

If your water’s alkalinity is low, it will allow pH to move easily; if the alkalinity is high, it will be very hard to move the pH.  For example, use a water testing strip to see where the pH and alkalinity are. If the alk is low, adding pH Up or Down will easily move your water balance to where it needs to be. 

Keep in mind that when using Waters Choice Pure Enzymes for Pools, it’s normal for your water’s pH to be slightly higher, so make sure to add the appropriate chemical to lower it.  

High pH and Itchy Skin

Wait until the next day and re-test. High pH results in itchy skin and brings the calcium out of the water leaving a sandpaper substance on the sides and bottom of your pool. Click HERE for our more information found on our FAQ page.

Additional problems arise with etching of the pool’s plaster, grout and stone products in LOW alkalinity situations. In addition to that you’ll find corrosion of metal components such as heat exchangers and staining of the pool.

High Alkalinity = pH That's Hard To Move  

In a HIGH alkalinity environment, not only is the pH hard to move, but it also tends to be pulled up; calcium and other mineral deposits may begin to show on the surface of the pool and in the heat exchanger.  Consequently, milky looking water is also caused by high alkalinity along with skin irritation.  

Keeping your total alkalinity in line is an important key in preventing these types of issues from occurring in your pool. If you have additional questions never hesitate to give us a call at Waters Choice.  We have a great customer service department!

Keep in mind that we also have an informative VIP newsletter where we give you helpful tips and tricks.  We love social media and post daily.  Click over to your favorite social media platforms and look us up. In addition to that, check out our YouTube channel and subscribe.  We don’t want you to miss out on new videos posted just for you.