What Can I Do To Lower My Alkalinity In My Above Ground Pool?
by Amanda
The total alkalinity is 240. I took a water sample to two different pool stores and was told two different things. One told me everything check out ok and the other said my alkalinity and chlorine were high. I am new at this and at my wits end. My pool does have a strong odor of chlorine but the water is crystal clear. Thanks for the question Amanda Without knowing the size of your pool, it would be very difficult to determine with any degree of certainty how much acid you'll need to lower your alkalinity (total alkalinity/TA). But I can say this; you need to get the level between 80 - 100ppm, with 120ppm being the max, and that will take alot of pool acid from your current level of 240ppm. Don't worry about putting acid into a pool with a vinyl liner. There's an easy way to do it. Turn off the pump. Get a 5 gallon bucket and fill it 1/2 with pool water, then add the acid. Remember gloves, goggles, and long sleeves. Stir with a plastic pipe or stick, and slowly pour the mixture into the pool. Gently sweep the sides and bottom to break up any hot spots. Pool Alkalinity Total Alkalinity Allow this to sit for 3 - 4 hours, then turn the pump on and allow the water to fully circulate. This is about 8 - 10 hours. Retest and make another adjustment. Do this in a series of steps. Don't simply pour 4 gallons of acid in the pool. You might overshoot the mark, then you'll need to raise it. Get a good test kit. The Taylor FAS-DPD K-2006 kit is the one I've used since 1999. Pool Water Testing Water Testing Kit When you say the chlorine was high, what was the reading? Pool store guys may not exactly know what a "high" level really means. Hope this helps and let me know how it turns out for you. Robert |
