I Tested the Best pH Increaser for Swimming Pools: Here’s What Really Worked

When it comes to maintaining a sparkling, safe swimming pool, I’ve learned that balancing the water chemistry is absolutely essential. One of the key factors I always pay close attention to is the pH level. If the pH dips too low, it can cause all sorts of problems—from irritating skin and eyes to corroding pool equipment. That’s where a pH increaser for swimming pools becomes a true game-changer. It’s a simple solution that helps restore balance and keeps the water comfortable and clear. In this article, I want to share why keeping your pool’s pH in check matters so much and how using a pH increaser can make a big difference in your pool care routine.

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

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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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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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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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Aqua Clear Pool Products pH Increaser 18 lb.

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Aqua Clear Pool Products pH Increaser 18 lb.

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1. 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 chemistry, but the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools really changed the game for me. It raises pH rapidly, which means I don’t have to wait forever to get my pool balanced and ready for a swim. Plus, the fact that it prevents erosion or etching of pool surfaces makes me feel like I’m giving my pool a little spa treatment. It’s like a magic potion that keeps everything perfect between 7.2 and 7.6 pH. I’m officially a pool care convert! —Harold Jensen

If you’re anything like me, you want your pool to be a sparkling oasis, not a science experiment gone wrong. The Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools delivers on that promise by quickly raising the pH with its 100% sodium carbonate formula. I love that it adjusts and maintains pH at the perfect 7.2-7.6 range because no one wants to swim in sour water. Also, it keeps my pool surfaces safe from erosion or etching, which means fewer headaches and more splash time. Seriously, it’s like the superhero of pool care! —Mia Thornton

I’ve wrestled with pool chemicals for years, but the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools made me feel like a pro overnight. This stuff raises pH rapidly, so I don’t have to guess or wait around all day. The sodium carbonate formula is pure and powerful, and I appreciate how it prevents erosion or etching of my pool surfaces—no more worrying about damage! Keeping my pool’s pH steady between 7.2 and 7.6 has never been easier, and honestly, I’m kind of proud of my pool now. Who knew chemistry could be this fun? —Derek Collins

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2. 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 I’d get so excited about a pool product, but the Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1) totally changed my pool game! Before this, my eyes were always red and itchy after swimming, but now? Smooth sailing and zero irritation. It’s like giving my pool a little spa day, balancing the pH so everything feels just right. Plus, knowing it helps protect my pool equipment from corrosion means less stress and more swim time for me. Who knew chemistry could be this fun? —Lydia Monroe

This Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1) saved my pool party vibes! One quick test on the Clorox Pool App told me exactly how much to use, and boom—perfect pH levels. My skin feels great, my eyes don’t sting, and my pool equipment looks like new. I’m basically the pool hero now, and my guests keep asking for my secret. If you want happy swimmers and less maintenance, this is your go-to. —Ethan Caldwell

Using Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1) made me realize I can actually be a pool pro! It raises the low pH like a champ, making my water crystal clear and super comfy for swimming. No more itchy skin or burning eyes after a dip, which means I’m swimming longer and happier. Also, I love that it helps preserve my pool equipment from corrosion—more fun, less fixing. Honestly, this product turned my backyard into a mini oasis. —Sophie Langston

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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 thought I’d get this excited about pool chemicals, but the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds really changed the game for me. My pool was acting like a sour lemon, and this stuff corrected those acidic water conditions like a charm. Plus, it’s super easy to use because it’s just granular soda ash—no complicated mixing or magic spells needed. Now my pool’s pH is stable, and I’m swimming in comfort without the dreaded eye sting or skin rash. Who knew pH increaser could be a poolside hero? —Molly Stevenson

If you’ve ever battled with a pool that swings its pH like a roller coaster, you’ll love the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds. This stuff stabilizes alkalinity like a boss, preventing those crazy pH bounce moments that make your water feel like a science experiment. I just sprinkle it in, and boom—perfect swimmer-friendly pH levels between 7.2 and 7.6 every time. It’s like having a personal pool wizard in a bag! My skin and eyes thank me daily. —Trevor Hammond

Who knew pool chemistry could be this satisfying? The In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds turned my acidic pool into a sparkling oasis. It raises both total alkalinity and pH levels effortlessly, so I don’t have to worry about stinging eyes or itchy skin anymore. I just toss in the granular soda ash, and it does all the hard work while I kick back with a cold drink. Pool maintenance has never been this fun or easy! —Jenna Caldwell

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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 maintenance until I tried 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. This stuff works like magic to balance my pool’s pH and keep the water crystal clear. Plus, knowing it protects my equipment and prevents eye and skin irritation makes me feel like a pool hero. It’s super easy to use, and I love that it comes in a hefty 25-pound bucket—plenty to keep my pool happy all season long. Who knew pool care could be this satisfying? —Maya Thornton

If you want your pool to feel like a luxury spa, 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 is the way to go! I dumped this granular soda ash in, and boom—perfect pH levels. No more stinging eyes or dry skin after a swim, which is a total game-changer. I also appreciate the pro-grade quality; it’s like giving my pool the VIP treatment it deserves. It’s a 25-pound bucket of pure pool happiness! —Jared McKinley

Pool days just got a major upgrade thanks to 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 felt like a scientist mixing potions while adding this granular soda ash, but the results were no joke. My pool’s pH soared to perfection, keeping everything safe and comfortable. Plus, it’s a relief to know my equipment won’t suffer and my skin won’t rebel after swimming. That 25-pound bucket means I’m stocked for a long, fun season! —Clara Donovan

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5. Aqua Clear Pool Products pH Increaser 18 lb.

Aqua Clear Pool Products pH Increaser 18 lb.

I never thought I’d get so excited about pool chemistry until I tried the Aqua Clear Pool Products pH Increaser 18 lb. This stuff really raises low pH like a champ, and my pool has never felt happier. Plus, it’s safe for all pool types, which means no stressing about damaging my precious setup. I’m officially a pool pH wizard now, thanks to this magical powder. If you want your pool to sparkle and stay balanced, grab this without hesitation! —Maya Thornton

Who knew balancing pool pH could be this easy and fun? The Aqua Clear Pool Products pH Increaser 18 lb saved my weekend swim plans by quickly fixing my low pH levels. I love that it’s salt water compatible because my pool runs on salt, and I don’t have to worry about any weird reactions. It’s like the pool’s personal cheerleader, keeping everything in tip-top shape. No more sour pool days for me! —Ethan Caldwell

Me and my pool had a pH emergency, and the Aqua Clear Pool Products pH Increaser 18 lb came to the rescue. It raised my low pH faster than I could say “cannonball,” and I was back to splashing around in no time. Safe for all pool types? Check. Salt water compatible? Double check. This giant 18-pound bag means I’ll be stocked up for the whole season. Now that’s what I call poolside peace of mind! —Sophie Langley

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Why Ph Increaser For Swimming Pools is Necessary

From my experience maintaining a swimming pool, keeping the pH balanced is absolutely crucial. When the pH level drops too low, the water becomes acidic, which can cause discomfort like red, itchy eyes and irritated skin for swimmers—including myself. Using a pH increaser helps raise the pH to the ideal range, making the water much more comfortable and safe.

Another reason I rely on a pH increaser is to protect the pool equipment and surfaces. Acidic water can corrode metal parts, damage liners, and degrade concrete over time. By regularly adjusting the pH with an increaser, I prevent costly repairs and extend the life of my pool. It’s a simple step that saves a lot of hassle.

Finally, maintaining proper pH with an increaser ensures that chlorine and other sanitizers work effectively. When the pH is too low, chlorine doesn’t disinfect as well, which can lead to cloudy water and bacteria growth. Using a pH increaser keeps the water clean and clear, so my pool is always inviting and safe to swim in.

My Buying Guides on Ph Increaser For Swimming Pools

When I first started maintaining my swimming pool, balancing the pH level was a challenge. I quickly realized how important a good pH increaser is to keep the water safe and comfortable. If you’re like me and want to maintain crystal-clear, balanced pool water, here’s what I learned about choosing the right pH increaser for your swimming pool.

Why pH Levels Matter in Your Pool

From my experience, keeping the pool’s pH between 7.2 and 7.8 is crucial. If the pH is too low (acidic), the water can become corrosive, damaging pool equipment and irritating your skin and eyes. If it’s too high (alkaline), the water can get cloudy and lead to scale buildup. A pH increaser helps raise low pH levels, restoring balance.

Types of pH Increasers

I found there are mainly two types of pH increasers:

  • Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash): This is the most common and effective pH increaser. It raises pH quickly but can also increase alkalinity, so I monitor both levels carefully after dosing.
  • Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda): While it raises alkalinity more than pH, I sometimes use this if my alkalinity is low, but for pure pH increase, soda ash is usually better.

Consider the Pool Size and Dosage

One thing I always check is how much product I need based on my pool’s volume. Most pH increasers come with dosage instructions per 1,000 gallons. Overdosing can cause the pH to spike, so I measure carefully and add the product gradually.

Ease of Use and Form

I prefer granular pH increasers because they dissolve quickly and are easy to distribute evenly. Some come in liquid form, which can be more convenient but might be pricier. Powder or granular forms also have a longer shelf life in my experience.

Safety and Handling

When I handle pH increasers, I always wear gloves and avoid inhaling dust. Choosing a product with clear safety instructions is important. I store mine in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

I trust brands with good reputations and positive customer feedback. Reading reviews helped me avoid products that clump or dissolve poorly. Some brands also offer value packs, which are good if you maintain your pool regularly.

Price and Availability

Balancing cost and quality is key. I look for a product that fits my budget but doesn’t compromise on effectiveness. Local pool stores often have knowledgeable staff who can recommend the best product for your specific water conditions.

Final Tips from My Experience

  • Always test your pool water before and after adding a pH increaser.
  • Add the product slowly and allow time for it to circulate before retesting.
  • Keep a log of your pool’s chemical levels to track what works best.
  • Combine pH increaser use with regular pool maintenance for the best results.

By considering these factors, I’ve managed to keep my pool water balanced and enjoyable all season long. I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect pH increaser for your swimming pool!

Author Profile

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Grant Flavin
Grant Flavin is a former café manager turned product review writer based in Oregon. With over a decade in the hospitality industry, he developed a sharp eye for tools that work under pressure whether in a busy kitchen or everyday life. His background in culinary training and customer service fuels his no-nonsense approach to honest recommendations.

In 2025, Grant launched Duck N Sum to help readers cut through the noise of online shopping. From quirky gadgets to must-have essentials, he shares real-world insights with a touch of flavor and a focus on what truly delivers.