E-254 Pool Nation Podcast – High pH, Cloudy Water, and Algae — Are You Making These Mistakes?

Prioritize pH testing every visit: pH is one of the two most critical parameters for pool health and safety, requiring weekly testing and adjustment.

Invest in accurate pH testing tools: Ditch test strips for reliable methods like calibrated pH pens, Taylor kits, or advanced devices (ColorQ, Spin Lab) to ensure precise readings and effective treatment.

Understand alkalinity's buffering role: Recognize that total alkalinity acts as a critical buffer, and addressing it first can often stabilize pH more effectively than direct pH adjustments alone.

Be mindful of aeration and water features: Advise clients that increased turbulence from spas, spillways, or other water features will naturally raise pH, which needs to be factored into their maintenance schedule.

Educate on the impact of low vs. high pH: Explain to clients that consistently low pH causes irreversible damage to pool surfaces and equipment, while high pH leads to cloudy water, scale, and reduced sanitizer effectiveness, guiding them on the importance of balance.

Consider CO2 for pH control: For advanced pH management, especially in commercial applications, explore the benefits of CO2 gas injection to lower pH without significantly affecting alkalinity, offering a more stable solution.