Sodium Carbonate
Sodium carbonate (soda ash) is used to raise pool water pH with minimal effect on total alkalinity.
Definition
Sodium carbonate (soda ash) is used to raise pool water pH with minimal effect on total alkalinity.
Typical Values: Raises pH by approximately 0.2 units per pound per 10,000 gallons
In Plain Language
Soda ash (Na2CO3) dissolves quickly in pool water and raises pH more quickly than sodium bicarbonate. Its primary effect is pH elevation; its alkalinity contribution is less than that of sodium bicarbonate. It is the preferred product when pH needs to be raised without significantly increasing TA. Dissolve in a bucket of water before adding to the pool to prevent white cloudiness from undissolved granules.
Why It Matters
Sodium carbonate is the standard product for raising pool pH without over-correcting alkalinity.
Typical Values
Raises pH by approximately 0.2 units per pound per 10,000 gallons
Last reviewed: 2026-06-01