pH and TA question

[old_monk]

Please see my PoolMath logs, I just finished 28 day new plaster startup this week.

One issue, I was away on work trip and PB sent someone to put the spa light. They couldn't snake it due to some obstruction and put MA in the conduit to dissolve the debris. It worked but they then also dumped some baking soda in the spa. This has raised the TA as you can see in the logs. I kept it around 80-90 during 28 days and is now at 120.

My plan is to add MA to target 7.4 pH and let it adjust over time. Is that the right course? Try something else?
thanks!

 

[ajw22]

Your plan is fine. Lower your pH and your TA will drop over time.

 

[old_monk]

Your plan is fine. Lower your pH and your TA will drop over time.

Thanks! I just realized the test I have shows 7.2 and 7.5 on the scale and the color difference is very subtle. Is there some pH test available that shows more granular pH levels preferably a drop test like we have for chlorine?

 

[ajw22]

Thanks! I just realized the test I have shows 7.2 and 7.5 on the scale and the color difference is very subtle. Is there some pH test available that shows more granular pH levels preferably a drop test like we have for chlorine?

No

A precise number does not matter.

Get used to close enough.

 

[wireform]

Have a good backdrop like a bright cloud or a sun lit white surface will make all the difference if you want to get more exact.

 

[pjt]

Is there some pH test available that shows more granular pH levels preferably a drop test like we have for chlorine?

Two additional techniques for the pH test:

1. Try holding the block sideways or upside down. Sometimes that helps distinguish colors better. I also use two old hotel keycards to mask off areas and narrow down my decision.

2. To get a consistent backlight, hold the block in front of your computer monitor with a blank white screen displayed (I use Google's homepage).

 

[old_monk]

Two additional techniques for the pH test:

1. Try holding the block sideways or upside down. Sometimes that helps distinguish colors better. I also use two old hotel keycards to mask off areas and narrow down my decision.

2. To get a consistent backlight, hold the block in front of your computer monitor with a blank white screen displayed (I use Google's homepage).

Thanks! I do the same trick of using it sideways so that solution spreads over the whole range.