Keep pool pH between 7.4 and 7.6

Yes. That half-point range is the sweet spot for comfort, chlorine effectiveness, and equipment safety.

Below 7.4, water gets acidic—it stings eyes, eats away at grout and metal fittings, and makes chlorine burn off too fast. Above 7.6, chlorine becomes weak and water gets cloudy. Skin gets itchy too.

Adjusting it is simple. To raise pH, add sodium carbonate (pH up, usually sold as a white powder). To lower pH, add muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate (pH down). Follow the label dosages based on your pool size, retest after a few hours, and repeat until you land in range.

Test strips or a liquid test kit are fine. Just do it weekly during swim season.

You can practically feel when it’s off. 7.5 is perfect—so aim for that.