What is the recommended pH range for swimming pool water?

The recommended pH range for swimming pool water is crucial for maintaining water quality and ensuring the safety and comfort of swimmers. The optimal range of 7.2 to 7.8 is considered ideal because it aligns closely with the pH of human tears, which helps prevent irritation to the eyes and skin of swimmers. Maintaining the pH within this range also ensures effective sanitation, as the effectiveness of chlorine, a common pool disinfectant, is greatly influenced by pH levels. If the pH is too low, the water can become acidic, leading to corrosion of pool surfaces and equipment, as well as potential harm to swimmers. Conversely, if the pH is too high, it can lead to scale formation and reduce the effectiveness of chlorine as a sanitizer.

Options that fall outside this optimal range, such as extremely low or high values, can result in various issues, including equipment damage, discomfort for users, and challenges in maintaining overall water quality.