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How to raise pool pH: step-by-step with pH increaser

Use pH increaser (sodium carbonate / soda ash) to raise your pool pH. Add 10 grams per 10,000 litres dissolved in water to raise pH by approximately 0.1. Wait 4 hours and retest.

Last updated: 1 min read By: Zwembadwijzer

Raise a low pH (below 7.2) using pH increaser (sodium carbonate / soda ash). Low pH is corrosive: it irritates eyes and skin and attacks metal components. Always dissolve in water before adding to the pool.

Dosage table

Rise neededPer 10,000 litresPer 25,000 litresPer 50,000 litres
0.1 pH10 g25 g50 g
0.2 pH20 g50 g100 g
0.4 pH40 g100 g200 g

For rises larger than 0.4, split the dose across two additions with 4 hours between.

Step by step

  1. Measure pH at 30 to 40 cm depth
  2. Calculate the required amount
  3. Fill a bucket with 10 litres of lukewarm water
  4. Add pH increaser to the water and stir until dissolved
  5. Pour evenly along the pool perimeter
  6. Run the pump for 4 hours
  7. Retest and repeat if needed

Tip

If both your pH and alkalinity are low, start with sodium bicarbonate to raise alkalinity first. This stabilises the pH and makes future corrections easier.

Frequently asked questions

pH increaser (sodium carbonate) strongly raises pH. Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) mildly raises pH and significantly raises alkalinity. Use pH increaser when pH is low. Use sodium bicarbonate when both pH and alkalinity are low.

pH increaser dissolves quickly and begins working within 1 to 2 hours. After 4 hours of circulation the pH is stable enough to measure reliably.

Keep your pool clear with the right maintenance schedule

See our complete maintenance schedule with daily, weekly, and seasonal tasks.

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Zwembadwijzer

The Zwembadwijzer editorial team consists of experienced pool owners and water treatment specialists who combine practical knowledge for residential pool owners.

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