Baking Soda Pool Alkalinity Calculator
Instantly find the exact dosage of common baking soda to balance your pool water safely and affordably.
How to Raise Pool Alkalinity with Baking Soda
Standard grocery store baking soda (Sodium Bicarbonate) is the exact same chemical sold in pool stores as "Alkalinity Up" or "Alkalinity Increaser," but it's often significantly cheaper.
- Measure: Use the calculator above to find the exact weight required.
- Broadcast: Walk around the deep end of your pool and sprinkle the baking soda directly onto the water surface.
- Circulate: Ensure your pool pump is running during application.
- Wait & Retest: Wait at least 6 hours (or one full turnover cycle) before retesting the water.
Why Use Baking Soda Instead of Alkalinity Up?
Pool stores mark up the price of Sodium Bicarbonate by 200-300% simply by branding it for pool use. By using standard baking soda, you get the same professional results for a fraction of the cost.
Pro Tip: Baking soda will also slightly raise your pH. If you only need to raise pH without affecting alkalinity much, consider using our Borax pH Calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular grocery store baking soda?
Yes. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is exactly what pool stores sell as 'Alkalinity Increaser'. Buying it in bulk at a grocery store or warehouse club is significantly cheaper.
How much baking soda can I add at once?
It is best not to add more than 10 lbs per 10,000 gallons in a single dose. Add half, wait 24 hours for it to circulate, re-test, and then add the rest if needed.
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