Algae Problems

TOTAL ALKALINITY:

Perfect Range 80 - 155 PPM (depending on temperature and sanitizer)

Temperature + Total Alkalinity + pH + Calcium Hardness + Stabilizer Adjustment + TDS = Saturation Index

Total Alkalinity is a measure of sodium bicarbonate (commonly known as baking soda) in solution. It's function is to buffer large changes in pH and prevent "pH Bounce". It helps to stabilize pH by absorbing the acid and bases in the water. Total Alkalinity is a component factor in calculating the saturation index therefore it also affects water balance. An increase in total alkalinity also increases saturation index which increases scaling.

You should always adjust total alkalinity FIRST to establish a minimum of 80 PPM before attempting to adjust the pH, calcium or stabilizer.

Increase Total Alkalinity with Sodium Bicarbonate (also known as Baking Soda or Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate)
Decrease Total Alkalinity with Acid

Perfect Ranges:

Total Alkalinity	60	80	100	180	Pool or Spa	Above 52 F	Ca, Li, Na hypochlorite
Total Alkalinity	60	100	120	180	Pool or Spa	Above 52 F	DiChlor, TriChlor or Br
Total Alkalinity	60	100	120	180	Pool or Spa	47 to 52 F	Ca, Li, Na hypochlorite
Total Alkalinity	60	100	130	180	Pool or Spa	47 to 52 F	DiChlor, TriChlor or Br
Total Alkalinity	60	80	155	180	Pool or Spa	Below 47	Ca, Li, Na hypochlorite
Total Alkalinity	60	100	155	180	Pool or Spa	Below 47	DiChlor, TriChlor or Br

Perfect Pool and Spa Software! Users:: Just input all test results and follow directions for your pool.