How to balance your pool water: 5 simple steps with the right products

Clear, healthy, pleasant water doesn't just happen. It relies on proper water balancing, an essential routine for any pool, whether chlorine or bromine. In this guide, we take a look at the 5 key parameters discussed in our most recent video, and present the products recommended for each stage.

1. Total alkalinity: the cornerstone of balance

Alkalinity is the first measurement to check. It acts as a buffer to stabilize the pH. Incorrect alkalinity causes constant pH fluctuations.

  • Ideal value: between 80 and 120 ppm.
  • Tip: Always adjust the alkalinity BEFORE correcting the pH.
Water test result - Total Alcalinity

2. pH: the core of chemical balance

The pH determines whether your water is acidic or alkaline. An unbalanced pH can damage equipment, irritate the skin, or reduce the effectiveness of chlorine/bromine.

Ideal value: between 7.2 and 7.6.

Water test result - pH

3. Disinfectant – Chlorine or Bromine: for pure water

The disinfectant kills bacteria and algae. Either one can be used, but it is important not to mix them.

Target values:

  • Chlorine: 1 to 3 ppm.
  • Bromine: 2 to 4 ppm.

🔄 Never apply a shock treatment without first testing and adjusting the alkalinity and pH1

Water test result - Free Chlorine Water test result - Total chlorine

4. Calcium hardness: avoid corrosive or scale-forming water

Hardness measures the level of calcium in water. Water that is too soft becomes corrosive, while water that is too hard causes limescale deposits.

  • Target value: 200 to 300 ppm.

💡 Pay particular attention to this in areas where municipal water is naturally soft.

Water test result - Total hardness

Calcium hardness too high

You must remove some water and replace it with fresh water.

5. Stabilizer (Cyanuric acid): protect chlorine from the sun

The stabilizer acts as a “sunscreen” for your chlorine. Without it, chlorine degrades quickly under UV rays.

  • Ideal value: between 30 and 50 ppm.

⚠️ Too much stabilizer can reduce the effectiveness of chlorine: test regularly.

Water test result - Cyanuric Acid

Stabilizer too high

You must remove some water and replace it with fresh water.

🧪 Tip: Test often, adjust precisely

Get a complete test kit or Trévi multi-parameter test strips to monitor these five aspects. Our branch experts can also analyze your water for free in store and offer you a personalized plan.

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Ready for more tips?

Check out our maintenance guide to learn how to extend the life of your pool and maintain its quality throughout the season.

View the complete guide