2024 Pool Alkalinity Calculator: Free & Easy to Use!

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Pool Alkalinity Calculator

Please feel free to use the Pool Alkalinity Calculator below.

Enter the Existing Total Alkalinity (TA) Level and the Pool Water Volume (Gallons) to get the Amount of Baking Soda to be added in (oz) to bring the TA Level to a healthy 100 ppm. (The calculator assumes a pH of 7.5)

NOTE: If Total Alkalinity (TA) is between 100 – 120 ppm, you do not need to take any action. However, if Total Alkalinity (TA) is greater than 120, bring down the pool pH to between 7.0 and 7.2 and then aerate the pool to gradually reduce the alkalinity below 120 ppm

You can use my Muriatic Acid Pool Calculator to help you figure out the right dose.

The Importance of Total Alkalinity (TA) in Your Pool

Total Alkalinity, often known as TA, measures the presence of carbonates and similar chemicals in your pool water. Carbonates, such as limestone and chalk powder (calcium carbonate), are common examples.

TA acts as a buffer for pH, stabilizing fluctuations. Unlike pH, which is measured on a scale, TA is gauged in ppm (parts per million).

Maintaining the right TA level is crucial. Low TA can lead to erratic pH swings, while high TA may cause pH to rise, resulting in cloudy water and scaling issues.

Ideal pH and TA Levels for Your Pool

The recommended pH range for a pool typically falls between 7.2 and 7.8. This range ensures swimmer safety, enhances chlorine effectiveness, and promotes a clean pool. Ideally, aim for pH levels between 7.4 and 7.6.

For TA, the ideal range is usually between 80 and 120 ppm. Staying within this range helps stabilize pH and prevents water balance problems.

When adjusting TA, target 100 ppm for optimal balance.

Using Baking Soda to Increase TA

Both Baking Soda and Soda Ash can raise TA levels in a pool. However, Baking Soda increases alkalinity without impacting pH, whereas Soda Ash affects both alkalinity and pH.

You can raise total alkalinity of your pool either by adding baking soda or soda ash. Generally speaking Baking Soda is a better option, unless the pH is very low too!

Best Baking Soda

How to Use Baking Soda to Raise Total Alkalinity

Here is the 5 step process:

Test Your Pool Water:

• Use a pool testing kit to measure the alkalinity level, aiming for a range of 80 to 120 ppm. Target a total alkalinity (TA) level of 100 ppm for optimal balance.

Calculate Baking Soda Amount:

• Determine the required amount of baking soda based on your pool size and current alkalinity level. Use the pool alkalinity calculator above.

Add Baking Soda to Pool:

• Disperse the calculated amount of baking soda evenly across the pool surface, avoiding direct pouring into the skimmer.

Allow Time for Action:

• Run the pool pump to distribute the baking soda thoroughly. Wait 6 to 24 hours for the baking soda to take effect, refraining from adding other chemicals during this period.

Retest Pool Water:

• After 6 to 24 hours, retest the pool water to assess the alkalinity level. If it remains low, repeat the process as needed to achieve the desired TA level.

Do you need access to all my Pool Chemical Calculators? Just click the button below:

Thank you very much for reading the post. I do hope you found it informative and helpful.