Keeping the alkalinity of the pool at the right level can be done easily without spending a lot. Just by adding the right amount of muriatic acid and following the right process, you can easily obtain the right level of alkalinity.
If you left the pool untreated, it would cause harm to your pool water and the circulation system. Adding muriatic acid is the simplest and inexpensive way of lowering the pool’s alkalinity. You just need to have some patience, a bucket, and know the safety precautions you need to apply.
Before you start adding the muriatic acid, you need to prepare the materials you need. Keep in mind that muriatic acid is highly caustic. It can burn your skin within seconds, and inhaling its vapor can cause severe respiratory problems.
Things You Need
- Acid-resistant gloves
- Plastic bucket
- Safety goggles
- Chemical-resistant apron
- Wooden or plastic stirrer
Step By Step Guide To Add Muriatic Acid
Before you start, measure the pH and the alkalinity of your pool. You can use test strips, but digital test kits will provide a more accurate result. Using muriatic acid to adjust the level of your pool’s alkalinity is performed in stages, and it may take days to complete. Below are the steps on adding the chemical in the pool’s water
Note: Before you start, put on your protective gear – the safety google, acid-resistant gloves, and chemical resistant apron
Step# 1 Determine How Much Acid You Need to Add
Figure out how many gallons of water your swimming pool can hold. Then determine the pH and the alkalinity levels. To help you determine how much muriatic acid you need to add, check the label. However, if it does not have a guide on how much to add, you can use the online calculator to help you determine.
Step#2 Turn-Off The Pump
If the purpose of adding the muriatic acid is to lower the alkalinity of your pool while keeping the pH stable, you need to turn off the pump before adding the acid. Adding the chemical with the pump on may help to circulate the acid, but it can also add oxygen to it. If you want to lower the alkalinity level significantly, you should avoid moving the water as well as other water feature you have.
Step#3 Add the Muriatic Acid
Pouring the muriatic acid directly into your pool water can be done, but it is not recommended. It is best to dilute it first, so it is easier to handle, and the risk of the occurrence of dangerous splashes is avoided.
The recommended ratio of water to muriatic acid is 10:1. In your bucket, carefully pour the calculated amount of acid into the water, then use the wooden or plastic stick to stir the solution gently.
Warning: You should pour the water first into your bucket then add the acid. Adding the acid first can cause a chemical reaction.
Then, pour the solution into the deep end of the pool. For a pool with high pH, it is best to pour the solution while walking around the pool slowly. This will add some air to the water and let the chemical circulate as you add it.
Warning: Do not forget to rinse the bucket after using it. Also, never use it for any other chemicals as it could cause an explosion.
Step#4 Allow the Chemicals to Work
There are two ways to allow the chemical work on the pool water. If you want, you can turn on the pump for at least half an hour to allow the muriatic acid to circulate. This method will prevent the acid from settling into the bottom of your pool.
Or you can let the acid work on the pool’s alkalinity, keeping the pump off. This method is known as pooling. However, the acid might damage the pool floor since the chemical is very caustic.
Step#5 Retest the Water
Test the chemistry of the water, the morning after adding the muriatic acid. If the alkalinity hasn’t gone down, repeat the process. If the pH is lower than what you need, but the alkalinity is fine, you can aerate the water.
Final Thoughts
The next time your pool water chemistry is not at the right level, remember that adding the right amount of muriatic acid can help you get things right. Just be patient in doing the process, remember haste makes waste.