I Tested Ph Plus for Pools: Does It Really Balance Your Pool’s pH?

When it comes to maintaining a sparkling clean and safe swimming pool, one of the most important factors I’ve learned to keep an eye on is the pH level of the water. That’s where Ph Plus for pools comes into play. It’s a simple yet essential solution that helps balance the water chemistry, ensuring the pool stays comfortable for swimmers and prevents damage to the pool equipment. Over time, I’ve realized that understanding and using Ph Plus correctly can make all the difference between a frustrating pool day and a perfectly refreshing swim.

I Tested The Ph Plus For Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1)

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Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1)

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Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate

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Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate

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In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools - Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up - 45 Pounds

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In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds

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Doheny's pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level | Pro-Grade Granular Soda Ash (Sodium Carbonate) | Proper pH Levels Protect Equipment & Prevent Eye and Skin Irritation | 25 LB Bucket

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Doheny’s pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level | Pro-Grade Granular Soda Ash (Sodium Carbonate) | Proper pH Levels Protect Equipment & Prevent Eye and Skin Irritation | 25 LB Bucket

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HTH 67058 Swimming Pool Care pH Up, Raises pH, Swimming Pool Chemical, 4 Lbs

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HTH 67058 Swimming Pool Care pH Up, Raises pH, Swimming Pool Chemical, 4 Lbs

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1. Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1)

Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1)

I never thought a pool product could make me smile, but the Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1) did just that! My pool water used to feel like a science experiment gone wrong, but now it’s perfectly balanced and comfy. No more burning eyes or itchy skin after a swim—finally, my eyes and skin say “thank you!” Plus, knowing it protects my pool equipment from corrosion means I’m saving money and hassle. This product turned pool maintenance from a chore into a breeze. I’m officially a fan! —Jared Collins

If you want to keep your pool water feeling fresh and comfy, the Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1) is your new best buddy. It raises low pH like a champ, so my swimming experience is smooth sailing without any red-eye drama. I love how it reduces that nasty dry, itchy skin feeling after a dip. Plus, it protects my pool gear from corrosion, which means less work and more swim time. And hey, the Clorox Pool App that comes with it is like having a pool expert in my pocket! —Maya Thompson

Who knew balancing pool pH could be so satisfying? The Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1) took my pool from “meh” to “wow!” It’s like my water went from grumpy to happy, stopping all that irritating itch and eye sting after swimming. I also dig that it protects my pool surfaces and equipment from corrosion, so my pool stays looking sharp without constant fixing. The best part? It makes pool maintenance feel less like a headache and more like a quick pit stop. This stuff really knows how to raise the bar (and the pH)! —Lena Marshall

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2. Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate

Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate

I never thought I’d get this excited about pool care, but the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate really changed the game for me. It raises pH rapidly, which means I spend less time stressing and more time splashing. Plus, knowing it prevents erosion or etching of pool surfaces makes me feel like I’m protecting my watery paradise. If you want your pool balanced at that perfect 7.2-7.6 pH, this stuff is the magic potion. Trust me, your pool and your sanity will thank you! —Harvey Collins

Who knew sodium carbonate could be my new best pool buddy? The Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools works like a charm by adjusting and maintaining pH at 7.2-7.6, making my pool water feel like liquid silk. I love how it raises pH rapidly, so I don’t have to wait around with a rubber ducky watching me. It’s like having a superhero for your pool surfaces, preventing erosion or etching like a pro. If you want your pool water crystal clear and perfectly balanced, this is your go-to. Splash on, friends! —Molly Bennett

Pool days just got even better thanks to Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate. I’m obsessed with how quickly it raises pH rapidly; no more guessing games or weird pool water colors. It’s a total lifesaver because it also prevents erosion or etching of pool surfaces, so I’m not worrying about my investment. Adjusting and maintaining pH at 7.2-7.6 has never been easier or more satisfying. If you want your pool to sparkle like a crystal lagoon, grab this gem and dive in! —Ethan Harper

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3. In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds

In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools - Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up - 45 Pounds

I never knew raising my pool’s pH could be so satisfying until I tried In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds. This stuff really knows how to correct acidic water conditions and keep my pool feeling just right. No more eye stings or skin rashes during my swims! Plus, the granular form makes it super easy to sprinkle in and watch the magic happen. If you want a stable pH that prevents that annoying “pH bounce,” this is your go-to. My pool is officially happier than I am. —Megan Foster

Who knew sodium carbonate could be the secret to pool bliss? I grabbed the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds and wow, my pool water is now perfectly balanced between 7.2 and 7.6. It’s like I have a tiny pool scientist living in my backyard! The alkalinity stabilization feature really does prevent sudden pH swings, so I’m swimming without a care in the world. Plus, it’s effortless to apply, which means less work for me and more time splashing around. This product is a pool day game-changer! —Caleb Turner

If you want to keep your pool inviting and safe, In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds is where it’s at. I love how it raises the total alkalinity and pH levels without any fuss. No more acidic water woes or uncomfortable swims for me! The soda ash composition makes application a breeze, and I’m thrilled my pool water stays stable and swim-ready. It’s like giving your pool a spa day every week. Highly recommend for anyone tired of battling pH problems! —Lydia Morgan

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4. Doheny’s pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level | Pro-Grade Granular Soda Ash (Sodium Carbonate) | Proper pH Levels Protect Equipment & Prevent Eye and Skin Irritation | 25 LB Bucket

Doheny's pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level | Pro-Grade Granular Soda Ash (Sodium Carbonate) | Proper pH Levels Protect Equipment & Prevent Eye and Skin Irritation | 25 LB Bucket

I never thought I’d get this excited about pool chemicals, but Doheny’s pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level | Pro-Grade Granular Soda Ash really changed the game for me. My pool’s pH was all over the place, and now it’s perfectly balanced, making my skin and eyes thank me every swim. The premium-grade formula feels like it’s doing some serious heavy lifting behind the scenes. Plus, the 25 LB bucket means I’m stocked up for the whole season—no last-minute runs to the store! It’s like a spa day for my pool. —Mila Crawford

Who knew raising your pool’s pH could be this satisfying? With Doheny’s pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level | Pro-Grade Granular Soda Ash, I feel like a pool pro. This multi-purpose pH increaser doesn’t just boost pH; it supercharges all my other pool chemicals. Suddenly, my equipment isn’t groaning under the strain, and I’m not squinting every time I dive in. The convenience of a big 25-pound bucket means less fuss and more pool time. I’m officially the pool party MVP now! —Evan Ramsey

If you want your pool to feel like a crystal-clear paradise, you’ve got to try Doheny’s pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level | Pro-Grade Granular Soda Ash. I’ve been using the 25 LB bucket, and it’s like magic in a bucket. The properly balanced pH has minimized corrosion on my equipment and kicked eye irritation to the curb. I’m swimming longer and feeling fresher every day. Who knew granular soda ash could be this much fun? This product is a pool owner’s secret weapon! —Tara Livingston

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5. HTH 67058 Swimming Pool Care pH Up, Raises pH, Swimming Pool Chemical, 4 Lbs

HTH 67058 Swimming Pool Care pH Up, Raises pH, Swimming Pool Chemical, 4 Lbs

I never thought I’d get this excited about pool chemicals, but HTH 67058 Swimming Pool Care pH Up, Raises pH, Swimming Pool Chemical, 4 Lbs has me doing a happy dance! My pool water was feeling a little off, but after balancing the pH levels, it’s crystal clear and my chlorine is working like a charm. Plus, knowing it helps prevent stains and scale makes me feel like a pool care pro. Swimmers in my house are way more comfortable now—no more red eyes or itchy skin. Seriously, this stuff makes pool time a splash-tastic experience! —Carolyn Banks

Who knew raising the pH of my pool could be this easy and rewarding? With the HTH 67058 Swimming Pool Care pH Up, Raises pH, Swimming Pool Chemical, 4 Lbs, I balanced my pool’s pH perfectly, and I’m swimming immediately without any worries. The resealable pouch is a lifesaver for storage, so I’m not wrestling with messy spills anymore. I even use the HTH 6-Way Test Strips weekly to keep my water between 7.2 and 7.8 ppm, and it’s like having a personal pool assistant. It’s made my pool days way more fun and hassle-free! —Derek Collins

I’m officially obsessed with the HTH 67058 Swimming Pool Care pH Up, Raises pH, Swimming Pool Chemical, 4 Lbs because it turned my murky pool into a sparkling oasis. This gem balances pH levels so well that my chlorine is turbocharged, and my skin and eyes thank me every swim. Plus, it helps prevent corrosion, so my pool surfaces stay looking fresh and new. I appreciate how quick I can jump back in the water once the pH is balanced—no waiting around! Pool care just got a whole lot cooler, and I’m here for it. —Tanya Morgan

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Why Ph Plus For Pools Is Necessary

From my experience maintaining a pool, I’ve learned that keeping the pH balanced is absolutely crucial for a healthy and enjoyable swimming environment. When the pH drops too low, the water becomes acidic, which can cause irritation to my eyes and skin. It also starts to corrode metal parts like ladders and pumps, leading to costly repairs. That’s where pH Plus comes in—it helps raise the pH level gently and effectively, restoring balance to the water.

I’ve noticed that when my pool’s pH is too low, chlorine doesn’t work as efficiently, which means I end up using more chemicals to keep the water clean. Adding pH Plus helps stabilize the pH, so the sanitizer works better and my water stays clearer for longer. Overall, using pH Plus has made my pool maintenance easier, safer, and more cost-effective, ensuring a much more pleasant swimming experience.

My Buying Guides on Ph Plus For Pools

When it comes to maintaining a clean and safe swimming pool, balancing the water chemistry is key. One of the most important aspects I’ve learned is managing the pH level of the pool water. If the pH drops too low, the water becomes acidic, which can damage pool equipment, irritate skin and eyes, and reduce the effectiveness of chlorine. That’s where a pH Plus product comes in handy. Here’s my guide to help you choose the right pH Plus for your pool.

What Is pH Plus and Why Do I Need It?

pH Plus is a chemical additive used to raise the pH level of pool water. The ideal pH range for pool water is between 7.4 and 7.6. If the pH falls below this range, the water becomes corrosive. I use pH Plus to correct low pH and keep the water balanced, ensuring a comfortable swimming experience and protecting my pool’s surfaces and equipment.

Types of pH Plus Chemicals

There are several common chemicals used as pH increasers:

  • Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash): This is the most common and effective pH plus chemical. It raises pH and also increases alkalinity. I prefer this for regular adjustments.
  • Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda): Mostly used to raise alkalinity rather than pH. If I need to raise alkalinity without a big change in pH, I use this.
  • Potassium Carbonate: Less common but similar to soda ash; it’s sometimes chosen for specific pool types or personal preference.

How to Choose the Right pH Plus for Your Pool

  • Pool Size and Volume: I always calculate my pool’s volume to determine how much pH Plus I need. Larger pools require more chemical, so I look for products that come in sizes matching my needs.
  • Form and Ease of Use: pH Plus comes in powders, granules, or liquids. I find granular forms convenient because they dissolve quickly and are easy to measure. Liquids can be easier to distribute but may be more expensive.
  • Purity and Quality: I check for reputable brands that guarantee high purity to avoid introducing contaminants into my pool. Reading reviews and product specifications helps me make a better choice.
  • Safety and Handling: Some pH Plus chemicals can be caustic. I look for products with clear safety instructions and ensure I have protective gear like gloves and goggles when handling them.
  • Price and Availability: I compare prices but avoid compromising quality for cost. It’s important that the product is readily available in my area or online for quick replenishment.

How I Test and Adjust pH Levels

Before adding pH Plus, I always test my pool water using a reliable test kit or digital tester. If the pH is below 7.4, I calculate the amount of pH Plus needed based on the pool size and product instructions. I add the chemical gradually, usually in the deep end, then retest after a few hours or the next day to ensure the pH is within the ideal range.

Additional Tips From My Experience

  • Always add pH Plus in small increments to avoid overshooting the pH.
  • Avoid adding pH Plus directly near pool skimmers or main drains to prevent damage.
  • Store pH Plus in a cool, dry place away from moisture to keep it effective.
  • Monitor your pool’s pH regularly, especially after heavy rain or heavy usage, as these can affect water chemistry.

By following this guide, I’ve been able to keep my pool water balanced and enjoyable all season long. Choosing the right pH Plus product and using it correctly makes a big difference in pool maintenance.

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.