Alkalinity Calculator
Stabilize your pH by maintaining proper Total Alkalinity (80-120 ppm).
Levels Balanced
What is Total Alkalinity?
Total Alkalinity (TA) acts as a buffer or shield for your pH. It primarily consists of carbonates, bicarbonates, and hydroxides that neutralize acids in the water. Without sufficient TA, your pH level becomes volatile and can bounce rapidly, making water balance nearly impossible to maintain.
Balance TA First
Always adjust Total Alkalinity before attempting to adjust pH. Because TA buffers pH, getting it into the ideal range (80–120 ppm) first stabilizes the water. Trying to adjust pH with unstable alkalinity is a frustrating cycle of "chasing" the numbers.
Alkalinity Balance
Balance total alkalinity.
Low Alkalinity Effects (< 80 ppm)
Low alkalinity creates aggressive water that is hungry for minerals. This leads to rapid pH fluctuations (pH bounce), eye irritation, and dissolved metal parts. Over time, it can severely damage pool surfaces, etching plaster and wrinkling vinyl liners.
High Alkalinity Effects (> 120 ppm)
High alkalinity creates a phenomenon known as "pH lock," where the pH becomes incredibly resistant to change. This often leads to constantly rising pH levels, cloudy water from calcium precipitation, scale formation on equipment, and reduced chlorine efficiency.
pH Down
Lower pool pH effectively (Dry Acid).
Go Pro with Mobile
Balance your alkalinity effortlessly. Save your test results and track trends over time.
