How to Balance Pool Water

Balance in this order: alkalinity → pH → chlorine. Use our Pool Chemical Levels Chart for target ranges.

1. Test water

Use test strips or a liquid test kit. Test alkalinity, pH, and free chlorine. Know your pool volume for dosing—use the Pool Volume Calculator if needed.

2. Adjust alkalinity

Target 80–120 ppm. If low, add alkalinity increaser (sodium bicarbonate). Use our Pool Alkalinity Calculator for the amount. Wait a few hours and re-test before moving to pH.

3. Adjust pH

Target 7.2–7.6. If low, add pH increaser; if high, add pH reducer. Use the Pool pH Calculator. Re-test after 30 minutes with pump running.

4. Adjust chlorine

Target 1–3 ppm. Add liquid chlorine or granular shock as needed. Use the Pool Chlorine Calculator or Pool Shock Calculator. Re-test after 30 minutes.