What is the ideal pH for a swimming pool?

7.2 to 7.6, with 7.4 as the sweet spot. Outside this range chlorine loses efficiency and bathers report eye and skin irritation.

Should I balance alkalinity or pH first?

Always handle total alkalinity first. Stable alkalinity prevents pH swings, so starting with alkalinity saves you re-dosing pH multiple times.

How often should I test pool water balance?

Weekly with a photometer or fresh strip during the swim season, plus after every shock dose and refill.

What is the calcium hardness target for a pool?

200 to 400 ppm, with 250 ppm a comfortable mid-range target. Soft UK water often sits below 100 ppm fresh from the tap.

Can I dose pH and alkalinity at the same time?

Dose alkalinity first, run the pump for one turnover, retest, then dose pH separately to avoid neutralising one with the other.

Pool Water Balancers

Balanced water is the foundation of every other pool chemical decision. With pH, total alkalinity and calcium hardness inside spec, your sanitiser dose, shock dose and algaecide all work at full strength.