Introduction
Have you ever noticed your pool water turning green or cloudy? This is a sign that the chemical balance of your pool is off. One of the most important factors in maintaining good pool chemistry is the alkalinity level. Alkalinity refers to the ability of your pool water to resist changes in pH levels. Borax is a popular chemical used to raise the alkalinity level in pools. In this article, we will discuss how to use borax to raise alkalinity in your pool.
What is Borax?
Borax, also known as sodium borate, is a naturally occurring mineral that is commonly used as a laundry detergent booster. It is also used as a pH buffer in swimming pools. Borax is a safe and effective way to raise the alkalinity level in your pool.
Why is Alkalinity Important?
Alkalinity is important because it helps to stabilize the pH level of your pool water. pH is a measure of how acidic or basic the water is. If the pH level is too low, the water becomes acidic and can cause skin and eye irritation. If the pH level is too high, the water becomes basic and can cause calcium buildup on the pool walls and equipment. Alkalinity acts as a buffer to prevent these pH swings from occurring.
How to Test Alkalinity
Before adding borax to your pool, it is important to test the alkalinity level using a pool test kit. The ideal alkalinity level for a pool is between 80 and 120 parts per million (ppm). If the alkalinity level is below 80 ppm, you will need to add borax to raise it to the proper level.
How to Use Borax
To use borax to raise alkalinity, you will need to determine the amount of borax needed based on the size of your pool. The general rule of thumb is to add 1.5 pounds of borax for every 10,000 gallons of water to raise the alkalinity level by 10 ppm.
Step 1:
Determine the size of your pool in gallons. You can use an online pool volume calculator or consult your pool manufacturer’s instructions to determine the size of your pool.
Step 2:
Calculate the amount of borax needed using the following formula: (Number of gallons in pool / 10,000) x 1.5 = pounds of borax needed
Step 3:
Add the appropriate amount of borax to a bucket of water and stir until dissolved. Pour the solution evenly around the perimeter of the pool while the pump is running. This will ensure that the borax is evenly distributed throughout the pool.
Conclusion
Maintaining proper alkalinity levels in your pool is crucial for keeping your pool water clean and clear. Using borax to raise alkalinity is a safe and effective way to keep your pool chemistry in balance. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your pool stays in top condition for years to come.