The Ideal pH Level for Florida Pools and How to Maintain It
Maintaining proper pH in your pool isn’t just about water clarity—it’s one of the most important parts of keeping your pool healthy and your equipment working right. In Florida, where the weather and environment can change pool chemistry quickly, staying on top of your pH levels is essential.
Here’s what to know and how to keep your pH right where it needs to be.
Why pH Matters in Your Pool
pH is a measure of how acidic or basic your pool water is. It ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. For swimming pools, the ideal range is between 7.4 and 7.6. When your pH is in this zone, your chlorine works effectively, the water feels comfortable, and your pool surfaces and equipment stay protected.
If pH is too low (acidic), it can:
Corrode metal parts and pool equipment
Damage plaster or tile surfaces
Cause skin and eye irritation
If pH is too high (basic), it can:
Make chlorine less effective
Lead to cloudy water or scale buildup
Cause skin and eye irritation
In Florida’s hot, rainy, and humid conditions, pH can drift more quickly than in other places. Rainwater, sun exposure, and debris from nearby landscaping can all push the balance out of range.
How to Check and Maintain Your Pool’s pH
1. Test the Water Regularly
Use a test kit or test strips at least once a week. If there’s been heavy rain or a lot of pool use, test more often. Consistent testing helps catch problems before they get out of hand.
2. Use the Right Chemicals to Adjust pH
If your pH is too low, add a pH increaser (like soda ash or sodium carbonate).
If it’s too high, use a pH reducer (like muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate).
Always follow product instructions and adjust slowly. Small, measured changes are better than big swings.
3. Keep Alkalinity in Check
Total alkalinity acts as a buffer to keep your pH stable. Aim for 80–120 ppm. If alkalinity is too low, pH will fluctuate more. If it’s too high, it can keep your pH stuck at a higher level.
4. Watch for Signs of Imbalance
Burning eyes, cloudy water, scale on pool surfaces, or trouble keeping chlorine levels stable can all point to a pH problem. If you notice these signs, test your water right away and take corrective action.
5. Stay Consistent With Maintenance
Keep your pool clean, your filter system running, and your water balanced. Small issues, like leaves or dirt in the pool, can affect chemistry over time. Regular cleaning and water checks are the best way to prevent big problems.
Need Help With Pool Water Balance?
Keeping pH levels steady in a Florida pool takes consistency, the right tools, and an understanding of how local conditions can impact your water. If you're not sure where to start, or just want a professional to handle it for you, give Orchid Pools a call or text. We serve Jensen Beach, the Treasure Coast, and South Florida with dependable, expert pool care.
Let’s keep your water clean, comfortable, and perfectly balanced year-round.
About Orchid Pools
At Orchid Pools, we provide reliable and professional pool service throughout Palm Beach County, Martin County, Saint Lucie County, and Indian River County. Our team proudly serves homeowners in Port Saint Lucie, Jensen Beach, Stuart, Palm City, Port Salerno, Hobe Sound, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach, Sebastian, Tequesta, Jupiter, Jupiter Island, North Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and Juno.
We also serve many neighborhoods across the Treasure Coast and South Florida, including White City, Indian River Estates, Lakewood Park, Sewall’s Point, Saint Lucie West, Tradition, Southbend Lakes, Riverland, Sandhill Crossing, Verano, Hutchinson Island South, and Ocean Breeze.
Orchid Pools offers a complete range of residential pool services, including:
Regular pool cleaning and chemical balancing
Filter cleaning and backwashing
Algae and shock treatments
Pool pump repair and replacement
Pool filter system and heater repairs
Pool leak detection and repair
Skimmer and return line repairs
Pool lighting repair
Pool resurfacing, pool replastering, and pool regrouting
Pool saltwater conversions and pool salt cell cleaning
Pool green-to-clean services
Professional pool inspections
For dependable, expert pool care, call Orchid Pools today.
