pH @ 7.2 & Alkalinity @ 129... Pool Party on July 4th... What to do?

[kpontier]

Hi Folks... long time reader (3rd Summer w/ a pool), first time poster.

We are having a pool party tomorrow... July 4th (and the cat's birthday). Excepting 15-20+ people plus a few kids (1-3 year olds).

My pool chemistry readings are good, except for the alkalinity is a bit high... 129ppm.

My pool chemistry app suggests that I add 3 quarts of of 15.7% - 10 degree Muriatic Acid. I could do this tonight, but fear it will knock my pH down too low by morning (currently sitting at 7.2). I only have about 1/3 gallon of Crown Muriatic Acid left (31.45% - 20 degree) around the house... and too late tonight to run out for more.

The ultimate question is "Which route to I go...?"

A. Do nothing. Leave it as-is so the pH stays intact. (Assuming here that Alkalinity @ 129ppm wont be harmful, especially to the kids).

B. Add the remaining 1/3 gallon of Crown Muriatic Acid left (31.45% - 20 degree) to lower the Alkalinity; and count on 10-20 people splashing around tomorrow to raise the by through aeration.

C. Something better that I am not considering.

LMK your thoughts. Much appreciated! Kyle

 

[TomBorg]

Leave it as-is. There is nothing harmful to people about a high alkalinity, as long as your pH is in the proper range, which it is. The only problem with high alkalinity is it will cause your pH to rise faster, especially with aeration of the water from 15-20 people (plus a few kids) in the pool.

Besides, a TA in the 120ppm range is what pool stores call perfect, so they can sell more "pH Down".

 

[aussieta]

long term you know you need a good test kit
short term, ta within reason has no affect on swimmer comfort or health

 

[kpontier]

Awesome! Thanks for the peace of mind

My current test kit is a LaMotte ColorQ Pool 7 Plus. I picked it up at the end of my first summer... and it has taught me a lot; along with the app on my phone that I plug the numbers into and spits back out recommended steps.

Cheers!

 

[Divin Dave]

Agree with all the others, leave it be.

 

[Richard320]

Leave pH & TA alone, boost FC before and after the party. Don't panic if the water loses some clarity. Bleach and time will fix it.