Pool Alkalinity Calculator
Enter your pool volume and current/target TA — we'll calculate the baking soda dose to raise it.
Result
Safety first
- Never mix chemicals together.
- Always add the chemical to the water — never water to the chemical.
- Wear gloves and eye protection when handling pool/spa chemicals.
- Keep chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
- Always follow the product label — it overrides any guidance here.
Ideal TA range
60-80 ppm for salt pools or trichlor; 80-120 ppm for liquid chlorine or cal-hypo pools.
Frequently asked questions
What does total alkalinity (TA) actually do?
TA measures your water's ability to resist pH swings. Too low, and your pH will bounce around unpredictably (and your pool surfaces can corrode). Too high, and your pH will climb and stay stubbornly high.
How do I raise TA?
Add sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) — the same ingredient as household baking soda, but pool-grade is cheaper in bulk.
How do I lower TA?
Lowering TA requires adding acid and then aerating the water (running the pump, water features) for a day or more. Use the pH Calculator for the acid dose, then retest after aeration.
What TA range should I target?
Roughly 60-80 ppm for salt pools or pools that use trichlor, and 80-120 ppm for pools using liquid chlorine or cal-hypo.