How to Use Baking Soda to Balance Pool Water

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a safe and affordable way to raise alkalinity and slightly increase pH. It is especially useful when your total alkalinity drops too low, which can cause pH fluctuations, corrosion, and irritation.

Benefits of using baking soda:

• Raises total alkalinity without drastically spiking pH

• Helps stabilize water chemistry

• Readily available and budget-friendly

Signs Your Pool Needs Baking Soda

Check for these signs during your water testing routine:

• Total alkalinity below 80 ppm

• pH level fluctuates often

• Cloudy or green water

• Stinging eyes or itchy skin after swimming

Always confirm with a test kit before adding chemicals.

What You Need Before Adding Baking Soda

Make sure you have the following items:

• A reliable water testing kit or test strips

• Household baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)

• A clean bucket or scoop for measurement

• A pool brush for stirring and circulation

How to Test Your Pool Water First

1. Test the water in the morning for accurate results.

2. Use a clean cup to collect water elbow-deep.

3. Check total alkalinity and pH levels.

4. Ideal alkalinity range is 80 to 120 ppm.

If alkalinity is below 80 ppm, it is time to add baking soda.

How Much Baking Soda to Add

Use this general rule:

• To raise total alkalinity by 10 ppm in a 10,000-gallon pool, add 1.5 pounds of baking soda.

Adjust the amount based on your pool size and how much you need to increase alkalinity. Avoid large corrections in one go. Add in smaller increments and retest.

Step-by-Step: Adding Baking Soda to Your Pool

1. Calculate the amount based on your test results and pool size.

2. Turn off the pump for even distribution.

3. Sprinkle baking soda across the surface or pre-dissolve in a bucket.

4. Wait 6 hours, then retest alkalinity and pH.

5. Repeat if needed to reach desired levels.

Avoid dumping it all in one spot. Spread it out for best results.

After Adding Baking Soda

• Run the pump for at least 8 hours

• Brush the pool walls and floor

• Retest after a full cycle

• Monitor pH and chlorine levels too

Baking soda may slightly raise pH but not as aggressively as soda ash. It is ideal when pH is low but not dangerously so.

Tips for Maintaining Balanced Water

• Test water 2 to 3 times per week

• Keep alkalinity between 80 and 120 ppm

• Adjust pH if it goes below 7.2 or above 7.6

• Avoid overcorrecting with too many chemicals

• Store baking soda in a dry, sealed container

When Baking Soda May Not Be Enough

If your pool’s pH is below 7.0 or alkalinity is severely low, you might need a stronger treatment like soda ash or a commercial alkalinity increaser.

Baking soda is best for minor to moderate corrections.

A Safe and Simple Solution

Using baking soda to balance pool water is a simple and effective method for most pool owners. It is gentle, accessible, and helps maintain a stable environment for swimmers and equipment. With regular testing and adjustments, your pool can stay clear, comfortable, and ready to enjoy all season long.