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View Full Version : Plaster pool has a 'natural' pH maybe?



aquarium
07-13-2006, 05:22 PM
I used the aeration method to lower alkalinity from 230ppm to 90ppm. Although the amount of acid now consumed has dropped a lot, the pH insists on rising to 7.6 and holding there unless I add more acid. But if I add acid the next day it's back to 7.6.

Is it possible that the plaster in the pool is causing the pool to set its own 'natural' pH?

It's an older pool that came with the house. Perhaps coincidentally, or not, some small patches have broken loose from the surface of the topmost step. It may just be age, but I'm also wondering if my attempts to run the pH down at 7.2-7.4 is having an effect on the plaster.

aquarium
07-15-2006, 12:52 PM
Is it also possible that the interaction with the CO2 in the air is causing the water to seek a 'natural' pH based on the alkalinity? If so, it may be advantagous to lower the alkalinity even more if I can get the pH to stabilize at a lower level than 7.6.

In an aquarium, the lowest alkalinity recommended is about 60ppm in order to prevent a pH 'crash' - a sudden drop into acidity. Is there a downside to run it that low in a pool?

Simmons99
07-17-2006, 07:52 PM
7.6 is still in the normal range of PH levels. I would say to let it stay at 7.6 if it wants to drift there instead of trying to keep it down.