The pH level is one of the most important factors in maintaining a healthy and safe swimming pool because it directly affects water balance, sanitizer effectiveness, and swimmer comfort.

Here’s why pH matters so much:

✅ 1. Controls Chlorine Effectiveness

Ideal pH: 7.2–7.6

If pH is too high (alkaline), chlorine becomes less effective.

If pH is too low (acidic), chlorine works too aggressively, which can lead to:

Eye irritation

Skin dryness

Fast chlorine burn-off

Example: At pH 8.0, chlorine is only ~20% effective; at pH 7.4, it’s ~60–70% effective.

✅ 2. Protects Pool Equipment

Low pH = Corrosive water → damages metal parts, heaters, ladders, and even the pool surface.

High pH = Scale buildup → clogs pipes, filters, and can damage the pump.

✅ 3. Keeps Water Clear and Balanced

Unbalanced pH leads to cloudy water and algae growth.

Balanced pH helps all other chemicals work properly (like algaecide, stabilizers, etc.)

✅ 4. Improves Swimmer Comfort

Low or high pH causes:

Red eyes

Itchy skin

Dry hair

Balanced water feels smoother and is less irritating.

✅ 5. Saves You Money

Unbalanced water damages equipment and wastes chemicals.

Keeping pH stable reduces the need for constant adjustments and repairs.