In your research of pool maintenance and the chemicals involved, you may have come across the term “muriatic acid”. And, like many, you may be wondering what it is and what it does. We’ve got you covered!

Muriatic acid, also known as hydrochloric acid, is a powerful chemical often used to properly maintain the pH balance in swimming pools. By adding muriatic acid, it’s possible to quickly lower the pH and alkalinity levels, resulting in a clear swimming pool. 

In this blog post, we’ve broken down what muriatic acid is exactly, what it does for swimming pools, and the benefits of using muriatic acid. So, let’s dive in and learn more about this pool maintenance tool.

So What is Muriatic Acid Exactly?

Muriatic acid is a strong, highly corrosive acid commonly used in a variety of different industries for many different purposes. It is a colorless, clear, and highly acidic liquid that is soluble in water and is one of the most commonly used products in pool maintenance.

Characteristics of Muriatic Acid

Muriatic acid has a unique set of characteristics that make it a versatile and useful product in many different applications. It does have a pH of less than 1, meaning it is highly acidic and has a strong, pungent odor. It is also highly reactive and can corrode certain types of metals and other materials quickly.

When muriatic acid comes into contact with water, it releases heat and can cause a chemical reaction. Thus, making it important to always add the acid to water and not the other way around. 

It is extremely important to handle muriatic acid with care. It is a highly concentrated and potent acid that can cause severe burns, eye irritation, and other health hazards if not handled properly. Make sure to: 

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and eye goggles.
• Never add muriatic acid directly to the pool water. Instead, it should be added slowly to a bucket of water and then poured into the pool.
• Never mix it with other chemicals, such as chlorine, as this can create a dangerous reaction. 
• Store it in a cool, dry place away from other chemicals.

Uses of Muriatic Acid

Muriatic acid is widely used in various industries, including the pool maintenance industry. In swimming pools, it is used to lower the pH and alkalinity levels to prevent scaling and buildup. It can also be used to remove mineral deposits and stains from pool walls and floors.

Besides pool maintenance, muriatic acid is used in the production of PVC plastic and the pickling process of steel. It is also used in the cleaning and preparation of concrete surfaces for painting or staining.

If you are considering using muriatic acid for your pool maintenance needs, consult with a professional (like us here at Pool School Videos) or follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure safe and effective use.

What Does Muriatic Acid Do for a Pool?

Swimming pools are a great way to beat the heat during the hot summer months. However, maintaining the proper pH balance in a pool can be a challenge. This is where muriatic acid can come in. Let’s break this down a little further:

Importance of pH Balance in Pools

pH balance is a crucial factor to consider when it comes to maintaining a healthy swimming pool. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. A pH level below 7 is considered acidic, while a pH level above 7 is considered basic. The ideal pH level for a swimming pool is just slightly above 7.

Maintaining this proper pH balance in a pool is important for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that the chlorine in the pool is working effectively. Chlorine is the most common disinfectant used in pools, and it works best when the pH level is within the ideal range. Secondly, a proper pH balance in a pool helps prevent skin and eye irritation. When the pH level is too high or too low, it can cause skin and eye irritation in swimmers. Lastly, maintaining a proper pH balance helps prevent damage to the pool itself. High or low pH levels can cause damage to the pool’s liner, pump, and other equipment.

How Muriatic Acid Helps Maintain pH Levels

When added to the pool water, muriatic acid reacts with the water and releases hydrogen ions. These hydrogen ions then combine with the hydroxide ions in the water, effectively lowering the pH level.

One of the benefits of using muriatic acid to maintain pH levels in a pool is that it is a fast-acting acid. This means that the pH level can be adjusted quickly and easily. Additionally, muriatic acid is readily available at most pool supply stores, making it a convenient option for pool owners.

Benefits of Using Muriatic Acid in Pools

As a pool owner, keeping it clean, well-maintained, and keeping the chemical levels balanced is essential for the safety of the swimmers and the longevity of the pool. And muriatic acid is a popular and effective solution for pool maintenance that offers numerous benefits. We’ve already mentioned one above, but the other benefits include:

Cost-Effective Solution

Muriatic acid is an affordable alternative to other pH-balancing chemicals. And since it is a potent chemical, you only need a small amount to achieve the desired results, making it an extremely cost-effective solution for pool maintenance.

Long-Lasting Effects

This acid offers long-lasting effects on pool water chemistry. It quickly helps to lower the pH levels of the water, making it less alkaline and helping keep it that way longer. This pH balance is essential in preventing the growth of algae and bacteria that can cause skin irritation and other health problems. When added to the pool water, muriatic acid stays active for a more extended period, providing continuous protection against bacteria and other harmful organisms.

Fewer Chemicals Needed

When you use muriatic acid, you’ll need fewer chemicals to maintain your pool. This is because muriatic acid is a versatile and multi-purpose chemical that can perform several functions. It helps to balance the pH levels, remove stains and scaling, and sanitize the pool water. This means that you don’t have to purchase multiple chemicals to perform these tasks, saving you time and money. Additionally, using fewer chemicals in your pool water is also better for the environment.

Muriatic Acid = An Effective Pool Maintenance Tool (When Used Properly!)

Using muriatic acid for pools is a common practice among pool owners and maintenance professionals to help maintain a healthy and safe swimming pool. By understanding the importance of pH balance in pools and how muriatic acid can help maintain the pH levels, you can ensure that your pool is always ready for a refreshing dip.

But remember, while muriatic acid can be an effective solution for pH balancing and removing stubborn stains, it’s important to handle it properly and with caution. Always wear protective gear, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and never mix it with other chemicals. 

Additionally, regular testing of pool water chemistry is crucial to maintaining a safe and healthy swimming environment. By following professional guidelines and practicing responsible pool maintenance, you can enjoy crystal-clear water all season long.

And for the most-in depth professional help that you can get to give you exactly what you need to master DIY pool maintenance, look no further than Pool School Videos! 

The “Pool Doctor” Mike Steele, offers his 30 years of professional maintenance knowledge in these 20 online, self-paced videos that offer easy-to-understand information like you won’t find anywhere else. The videos show how to properly and effectively maintain your pool while also saving money doing it. Once you purchase Pool School Videos, you’ll have access to the videos whenever you want and as often as you need.

Your purchase also comes with access to our private Facebook group. There, you can ask any questions you may have and you’ll get a personalized response within 24 hours!

So, go check out the sneak peek of our videos and then get started with Pool School Videos today!