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This refers to the quantity of alkaline materials dissolved in water, which act as a buffer in controlling pH change. If the TA is below 60 ppm the pH will not stay in proper range. The pool water may promote cloudy or clear green water, corrosion, and cause damage to the pool fixtures and equipment. TA that is above 120 can cause cloudy water or scale, and can also create an ideal environment for algae growth. ***Note: Cyanuric Acid (stabilizer) will interfere with the test for TA, therefore it is necessary to compensate for this interference. For pools with a CyA above 50 ppm, the correction formula is: TA - 1/3 CyA = True Total Alkalinity

pH: Proper pH levels allow other chemicals to do their work.It is important to note that low and high levels can cause damage to the liner. Under the right circumstances with pH below 7.0, the liner can actually grow and develop unsightly wrinkles, staining of walls, chlorine loss, and skin/eye irritation. High pH greatly ac- celerates the aging process and shortens the life of the liner. High pH can also cause chlorine inefficiency, plugged filters, and skin/ eye irritation. Make sure to test your pH regularly with your test strips so these things can be avoided.

With over 11 years of hands-on experience in the swimming pool industry and more than 20,000 water analyses performed throughout my career, I created this community to provide reliable, expert guidance to pool owners like yourself. Whether you're dealing with water chemistry, maintance routines, equipment issues, or seasonal care, you'll find practical advice and solutions here. Ask questions, share your experiences, and connect with fellow pool owners who want to keep their backyard oasis clear, safe, & sparkling.