Maintaining a perfect pool requires precision and understanding of the chemistry involved. Sodium bisulfate is a commonly used chemical to lower pH and alkalinity in swimming pools. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to safely and effectively add sodium bisulfate to your pool water.

Before diving into the process, it’s crucial to understand what sodium bisulfate is and its role in pool maintenance. Sodium bisulfate, also known as dry acid, is a granular form of acid that lowers pH levels and reduces alkalinity in pool water. Proper maintenance of pH and alkalinity is vital as they influence the efficacy of chlorine, the comfort of swimmers, and the overall health of your pool.
Why Use Sodium Bisulfate?

Using sodium bisulfate is often preferred over muriatic acid for several reasons. It is safer to handle, less corrosive, and easier to store. Additionally, it dissolves efficiently in pool water, minimizing the risk of damage to your pool surface and equipment.
Prepare for the Process
1. Testing the Water Before adding any chemicals, test your pool water using a reliable pool testing kit. The ideal pH range for pool water is between 7.2 and 7.6. If the pH is above this range, sodium bisulfate is needed.
2. Calculate the Amount Determine the volume of water in your pool to calculate the appropriate amount of sodium bisulfate required. Most products provide guidelines on the label, typically based on per 10,000 gallons of water.
3. Safety First Always prioritize safety. Wear protective gear, including gloves and goggles, to prevent any injuries from accidental splashes or contact with the chemical.
Adding Sodium Bisulfate to Your Poolhow to add sodium bisulfate to pool
1. Read the Instructions Sodium bisulfate products come with specific instructions regarding the quantity and method of application. Ensure you read and understand them before proceeding.
2. Dissolve the Product For best results, pre-dissolve the sodium bisulfate in a bucket of water. This step helps avoid any granules settling at the bottom of the pool, which can cause surface damage.
3. Distribute Evenly Slowly pour the dissolved solution into the deep end of the pool while the water is circulating. This helps spread the chemical evenly, ensuring the entire pool is treated.
4. Run the Pump Allow the pool's pump and filtration system to run for at least two hours to ensure complete mixing of the chemical throughout the water.
5. Retest the Water After a few hours, retest the pool water to ensure the pH levels have adjusted to the desired range. If further adjustment is necessary, repeat the process with a smaller amount to avoid overcorrection.
Additional Tips
- Avoid adding sodium bisulfate on windy days to minimize chemical drift, which can affect unintended areas.
- Store sodium bisulfate in a cool, dry place, away from other pool chemicals to prevent unintended reactions.
- Regular maintenance and testing will reduce the frequency and amount of sodium bisulfate needed, saving both time and resources.
Maintaining the right chemical balance with expertise and diligence not only enhances swimmer comfort but also extends the lifespan of your pool. With the proper use of sodium bisulfate, you ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming environment. Trust in this tried-and-tested method to keep your pool at its optimal health with minimal hassle.