To raise the pH in a pool using baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), the primary effect is actually on increasing alkalinity, which helps stabilize pH rather than dramatically raising it. Here are the key points:

• A general guideline is to add 1.5 pounds (about 680 grams) of baking soda per 10,000 gallons (37,854 liters) of pool water to raise the alkalinity by approximately 10 ppm (parts per million)

• If the pool's pH is below 7.2, adding 3 to 4 pounds of baking soda per 10,000 gallons is recommended to help bring it closer to the ideal range (7.2 to 7.6)

• Baking soda has a pH around 8.3, so it raises pH slightly but mainly increases total alkalinity, which buffers the pH and prevents it from fluctuating wildly

• For significant pH increases, soda ash (sodium carbonate) is more effective than baking soda because it raises pH more directly, while baking soda is better for raising alkalinity with minimal pH impact

• When adding baking soda, do it gradually and with the pool pump running to ensure even distribution. Start with half or three-quarters of the calculated amount, then retest and adjust as needed to avoid overshooting alkalinity and pH levels

Summary:

Pool Volume (gallons)| Baking Soda Amount (lbs)| Effect
---|---|---
10,000| 1.5| Raises alkalinity by ~10 ppm
10,000| 3-4| Raises pH if below 7.2

Use baking soda primarily to raise alkalinity and stabilize pH; for raising pH more quickly, consider soda ash. This approach helps maintain a healthy pool chemistry balance, protecting equipment and ensuring effective sanitizer performance