Why don't you want alkalinity to be low?

Alkalinity is one of your first lines of defense against bacteria growth and damaged pool equipment! This is one of the biggest secrets to properly taking care of your water. Low alkalinity in a swimming pool or spa can lead to several issues. Alkalinity acts as a buffer in pool water, helping to stabilize the pH level and prevent fluctuations.

When the alkalinity is low, the pH level can become unstable, leading to rapid fluctuations in pH. This can cause skin irritation, eye irritation, and corrosion of pool equipment and surfaces.

Additionally, low alkalinity can cause the water to become overly acidic, which can lead to damage to pool surfaces and equipment, such as discoloration and staining. Low alkalinity can also cause the chlorine in the water to become less effective, making it more difficult to maintain proper sanitation levels and potentially leading to the growth of harmful bacteria. To maintain a safe and healthy swimming environment, it's important to keep the alkalinity levels in a pool or spa within the recommended range.

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