Pool Water Chemistry

What Is Total Alkalinity?

Total alkalinity measures the capacity of pool water to neutralize added acid and resist changes in pH.

pH increases to the right. The same acid addition moves pH left from the teal before point to the purple after point: a larger decrease with less buffering and a smaller decrease with more buffering. Conceptual, not a numeric prediction.

Understanding the Concept

Bicarbonate and carbonate contribute to alkalinity in typical pool water. Test results are commonly reported as parts per million as calcium carbonate.

Common Misunderstanding

Alkalinity is not the same as a high pH. Water can have an unsuitable pH even when alkalinity is within a chosen operating range.

Related terms

Calcium Hardness
Pool pH
Saturation Index

Learn more

Total Alkalinity Explained: Why It’s Your Pool Chemistry’s Shock Absorber

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