Map of the Rio Grande River. Will Rogers once described the Rio Grande as âthe only river I know of that is in need of irrigating,â a prescient observation considering how fragmented this fabled river has become.
Low pH (acidic water) can also corrode metal parts of a pool system and damage the plaster finish. The State standard for pH is 7.2 â 8.0 (Recommended range 7.4â7.6). To lower the pH, muriatic (hydrochloric) acid must be added. It is advisable to add the desired amount of acid to a full (plastic) bucket of water before adding to the pool. (Acid introduced directly can stain the pool wall.) To raise the pH, soda ash (sodium carbonate) must be added. ALKALINITY Alkaline (basic) substances are present in all water. Within the 7.2â7.8 pH range, alkalinity exists as a bicarbonate material.
Using the proper swimming pool chemicals and techniques will allow for better pool water chemistry. Allow the water to fully circulate, usually 8 - 10 hours, then re-test your pool's pH balance. Please refer to the chart to see the amount your pool needs to raise your swimming pool pH level. Take care in using sodium bicarbonate as it tends to affect both the swimming pool pH and total alkalinity.