What is the importance of total alkalinity in swimming pools?

Total alkalinity plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall water chemistry of a swimming pool, particularly in stabilizing pH levels. By acting as a buffer for pH, total alkalinity helps prevent significant fluctuations that can occur due to various factors, such as rain, bather load, or the addition of chemicals. When total alkalinity is within the recommended range, which is typically between 80 and 120 parts per million (ppm), the pH of the pool water becomes more stable and easier to manage. This stability helps create a safer and more comfortable swimming environment, as it minimizes the risk of skin and eye irritation for swimmers that can occur with unbalanced pH levels.

In addition, maintaining proper total alkalinity can lead to reduced wear and tear on pool equipment and surfaces, as well as enhancing the effectiveness of chlorine and other sanitizers in the pool, thus contributing to better overall water quality.