pH

Potential hydrogen, or pH, measures the alkalinity or acidity levels in your pool. The recommended pH level for a pool is 7.4, or about mid-range on a scale of 0-15. If your pH is too high, add dry acid to help lower it down. If your pH is too low, try adding some soda ash to bring it back up again.

If your pool smells very chlorine-like, you probably have't balanced your pH levels. An unbalanced pH level can also irritate the skin and eyes of swimmers in your pool, and it can also damage their hair.

Got more questions about how to maintain a healthy pH balance? Head over to our Swimming Pools forum and talk to other DIYers who may just have the tip you're looking for!