How to lower your pool’s pH
High pH stings eyes, reduces chlorine efficiency, and can cloud water. Lower it with muriatic acid (or dry acid). The amount depends on how far you’re dropping pH and your alkalinity — use the calculator for the exact dose.
Step by step
- Test pH and alkalinityHigher alkalinity needs more acid for the same pH change, so enter both.
- Add acid to the deep endPour slowly into the deep end with the pump running. Always add acid to water, never water to acid.
- Aerate if alkalinity is fineAcid lowers alkalinity too. If TA is already good, aerate (jets/fountains) afterward to bring pH back up while TA stays down.
- Re-test before adding moreWait, circulate, and re-test. Never add more than about a quart of acid at once in a residential pool.
FAQ
Why does my pH keep rising?
Usually high alkalinity or aeration (common in salt pools and spas). Lower alkalinity to the low end of range to steady pH.
Muriatic acid or dry acid?
Both lower pH. Dry acid (sodium bisulfate) is convenient and low-fume but adds sulfates over time; muriatic is cheaper and common.
Related
Stop guessing — get the exact fix
DoseMyPool turns your test numbers into the precise doses and the safe order to add them. Free on the App Store.