License. Bonded. Insured.  ROC#322983

What is Soda Ash for Swimming Pools?

If you’re diving into the world of pool maintenance, you’ve probably come across a myriad of chemicals and treatments. One of the key players in keeping your pool water sparkling and safe is soda ash. But what exactly is soda ash, and why is it so important for your swimming pool? Let’s take a closer look.

Click Here to View AZ Valley Pools Gallery

Understanding Soda Ash

Soda ash, also known as sodium carbonate, is a white, powdery substance that’s highly effective in managing the pH levels of your pool water. It’s a common chemical used in various industries, but in the context of swimming pools, its primary role is to raise the pH level of the water.

Why pH Levels Matter

Before diving into the specifics of soda ash, it’s crucial to understand why pH levels are so important for your pool. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. For swimming pools, the ideal pH level is between 7.2 and 7.8. If the pH level falls below this range, the water becomes too acidic, which can lead to a host of problems, including:

– Corrosion: Acidic water can corrode metal parts of your pool, such as ladders, pumps, and filters.
– Skin and Eye Irritation: Swimmers may experience discomfort, including red eyes and itchy skin.
– Reduced Effectiveness of Chlorine: Chlorine is less effective at sanitizing your pool when the pH level is too low.

How Soda Ash Helps

This is where soda ash comes into play. When you add soda ash to your pool, it raises the pH level, bringing it back into the ideal range. This not only protects your pool equipment and ensures a comfortable swimming experience but also maximizes the effectiveness of chlorine, keeping your pool water clean and safe.

How to Use Soda Ash

Using soda ash is relatively straightforward, but it’s essential to follow the correct steps to ensure you achieve the desired results. Here’s a simple guide to help you out:

1. Test Your Water: Before adding any chemicals, use a pool test kit to check the current pH level of your water. This will help you determine how much soda ash you need to add.

2. Calculate the Amount: Based on the test results, calculate the amount of soda ash required. As a general rule, adding 6 ounces of soda ash per 10,000 gallons of water will raise the pH by approximately 0.2 units.

3. Dissolve the Soda Ash: It’s a good idea to dissolve the soda ash in a bucket of water before adding it to your pool. This helps to distribute the chemical more evenly and prevents it from settling on the pool floor.

4. Add to the Pool: Pour the dissolved soda ash solution around the perimeter of your pool while the pump is running. This ensures that the chemical is evenly distributed throughout the water.

5. Retest the Water: After a few hours, retest the pH level to ensure it’s within the ideal range. If necessary, repeat the process until you achieve the desired pH level.

Safety Tips

While soda ash is generally safe to use, it’s essential to handle it with care. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

– Wear Protective Gear: Always wear gloves and safety goggles when handling soda ash to protect your skin and eyes.
– Store Properly: Keep soda ash in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets.
– Avoid Overuse: Adding too much soda ash can cause the pH level to rise too high, leading to other issues such as cloudy water and scaling.

Maintaining the right pH level in your swimming pool is crucial for the longevity of your pool equipment, the comfort of swimmers, and the effectiveness of chlorine. Soda ash is a valuable tool in your pool maintenance arsenal, helping you achieve and maintain the ideal pH balance. So, the next time you test your pool water and find the pH level dipping too low, you’ll know exactly what to do.

Learn More About AZ Valley Pools – Turning Pool Dreams Into Reality