pH and alkalinity

What is the ideal pH of pool water?

The ideal pH is between 7.2 and 7.6. Is the pH too low? Then the water is acidic and can lead to corrosion of pool components. The water may also turn a brown colour as a result. Is the pH of your pool too high? Then chlorine loses its effect and algae can grow faster. It also increases the risk of suffering from red eyes and dry skin during and/or after swimming. With pH-minus you lower the pH value, while with pH-plus you correct a value that is too low. At Hermie, you will find both products in liquid and powder form, suitable for both manual dosing and automatic systems.

Why is alkalinity important?

Alkalinity (also called TAC or KH) stabilises the pH value. The alkalinity value indicates the total hardness of the water. The better the alkalinity of a pool, the better the pool water can control itself, so to speak. Pool water is thus able to absorb fluctuations in pH. A disturbed alkalinity value causes small additions of, for example, rainwater, chlorine or even sweat to have a huge impact on the pH value. A disturbed pH value in turn leads to maintenance products not working optimally. 

Alkalinity that is too low causes fluctuations in pH, making the water difficult to control. Ideally, the TAC should be between 100 and 150 ppm. Is the value too low? Then use alkalinity up to bring it up to standard.

Everything for perfectly balanced pool water

At Hermie, you will find a wide range of products for measuring, increasing and decreasing pH and alkalinity:

• pH-minus & pH-plus (liquid & powder)
• Alkalinity up and down
• Digital testers and test strips

Still have questions about pools, accessories or maintenance? Read our FAQs!