You’ll get a single-ingredient sodium bicarbonate granule that reliably raises total alkalinity; dose 1.5 lb per 10,000 gallons to increase alkalinity ~10 ppm and target 90–120 ppm. Granules dissolve readily, adjust within hours under good circulation, and produce reproducible results when you follow the guideline. Store dry, keep away from acids, and use basic PPE to avoid dust irritation. It’s cost-effective for routine alkalinity boosts, and the rest of the review explains practical tips and caveats.
Some Key Takeaways
- 100% sodium bicarbonate formula reliably raises total alkalinity and stabilizes pH for pools.
- Dosing guideline: 1.5 lb per 10,000 gallons raises alkalinity by approximately 10 ppm.
- A 25 lb bag provides about 16 full 10,000-gallon treatments, offering predictable value.
- Granules dissolve readily under circulation, producing measurable adjustments within hours.
- Store dry, use PPE when handling, and avoid mixing with acids or chlorinated products.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For (In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser Overview)
If your pool’s total alkalinity is low and you need a fast, reliable fix, In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser is a granular, 100% sodium bicarbonate formulation designed to raise alkalinity and stabilize pH. You’ll use it within a pool maintenance routine to correct alkalinity to the 90–120 ppm target, applying 1.5 lbs per 10,000 gallons per 10 ppm increase. You’ll perform regular water testing, add granular product per instructions, and monitor pH. It supports bather comfort by reducing irritation and eye stinging. Store the 25 lb container securely, observe chemical storage best practices, and collaborate with fellow pool owners. Keeping your pool pH balanced helps ensure clearer, safer water and prolongs the life of pool equipment.
How Well It Works: Performance, Dosage, and Real-World Results
When you need a quick, predictable alkalinity correction, In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser delivers: its 100% sodium bicarbonate granules dissolve readily, and the stated dosing—1.5 lb per 10,000 gallons for a 10 ppm rise—produces consistent, measurable changes in total alkalinity toward the 90–120 ppm target. You’ll apply measured amounts, test pre- and post-dose, and observe rapid adjustment within hours under proper circulation. Repeated, calibrated additions yield long term stability without overshooting pH when you follow guidelines. Results are reproducible across pool sizes, and you’ll feel confident maintaining balanced water chemistry with predictable, technical outcomes. This product is a convenient option for homeowners who want to keep their pool sparkling with easy-to-use shock treatment and maintenance supplies.
Safety, Handling, and Compatibility With Pool Systems
After confirming alkalinity adjustments are working, you should handle and store sodium bicarbonate with standard pool-chemical precautions: keep granules dry, in a cool ventilated area away from acids and chlorinated products, and always use gloves and eye protection to prevent irritation from dust. You’ll follow personal protective measures: nitrile gloves, safety goggles, and dust mask when transferring product. For Storage considerations, label containers, secure lids, and segregate from oxidizers and acids. Compatibility: sodium bicarbonate won’t harm liners, metal fixtures, or filtration media at recommended doses, but avoid overdosing which can alter pH management and stress pool systems. Homeowners can use simple pool water test kits to monitor alkalinity and ensure safe dosing.
Size, Value, and Cost per Treatment (25 Lb Bag : How Many Doses?)
A 25 lb bag of In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser contains roughly 11.34 kg (≈400 oz) of granular sodium bicarbonate, and at the stated dosing—1.5 lb per 10,000 gallons to raise alkalinity by 10 ppm—you’ll get about 16 full 10,000‑gallon treatments per bag (25 ÷ 1.5 ≈ 16.7, rounded down for practical dosing). You’ll estimate bag lifespan by dividing required doses into that 16-treatment baseline; adjust for smaller pools or partial corrections. For shared pool owners, that predictability supports budgeting and community maintenance. Calculate treatment cost by dividing purchase price by usable treatments for straightforward value comparisons. Keeping pool chemistry balanced with the right stabilizer levels helps maintain water clarity and protect pool equipment, and monitoring total alkalinity is a key preventative step pool maintenance.
Should You Buy It? Pros, Cons, and Buying Recommendations
If you need a reliable, single-ingredient alkalinity boost, In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser delivers: it’s 100% granular sodium bicarbonate, doses predictably (1.5 lb per 10,000 gallons for a 10 ppm rise), and a 25 lb bag yields roughly 16 full treatments, making it a straightforward, cost-effective choice for maintaining the recommended 90–120 ppm range and stabilizing pH. You’ll like its predictability and simple chemistry; it’s low-risk and effective. Consider buying alternatives if you need combined pH/alkalinity adjustments. For long term storage, keep the sealed bag dry to prevent caking and CO2 loss. Homeowners who enjoy their outdoor spaces should also regularly test pool water and use appropriate products to Keep Pool Water Clear.
Some Questions Answered
Can It Be Used in Saltwater Pools With Chlorine Generators?
Yes — you can use it in saltwater pools with chlorine generators. You’ll raise total alkalinity without adding chlorides, but monitor pH drift since sodium bicarbonate affects buffering. Keep alkalinity within 90–120 ppm to minimize electrode scaling on the salt cell and reduce corrosion risk to metal components. You’ll test frequently, add slowly, and follow manufacturer guidelines so your system and community of pool owners stay safe and aligned.
Is It Safe for Vinyl and Fiberglass Pool Liners?
Yes — you can use it safely. Because it’s 100% sodium bicarbonate, it offers vinyl safety and liner compatibility when dosed correctly; it raises total alkalinity without harsh chemicals that degrade vinyl or fiberglass. You’ll follow dosage guidelines, dissolve granules if needed, and add gradually while the pump runs to avoid localized concentration. Doing this preserves liners, stabilizes pH, and helps your pool feel comfortable and protected.
How Long After Adding Can You Swim Again?
You can usually swim 15–30 minutes after adding sodium bicarbonate once the pump has circulated and you’ve tested alkalinity. Wait time depends on circulation and complete dissolution; make certain total alkalinity is 90–120 ppm and pH is stable. For health considerations, avoid swimming if pH or alkalinity remain out of range to prevent skin irritation. Plan exercise timing around testing and filtration to keep the group safe and comfortable.
Can It Be Mixed With Other Pool Chemicals Directly?
No — you shouldn’t mix it directly with other chemicals. For chemical compatibility, add sodium bicarbonate separately, dissolving or broadcasting it per dosage, then allow proper circulation. Observe application timing: wait at least 15–30 minutes of filtration before adding other treatments, and recheck alkalinity/pH before further adjustments. That prevents unwanted reactions, localized high concentrations, and dosing errors, and helps you maintain safe, balanced water alongside fellow pool owners.
Does It Affect Water Hardness (Calcium Levels)?
No — it doesn’t raise calcium hardness; sodium bicarbonate changes alkalinity and pH without adding calcium, so there’s negligible calcium impact. You’ll still want routine hardness testing because calcium levels affect scale and equipment. Follow dosage and retest after adjustments: measure total alkalinity and calcium hardness separately, then correct hardness with calcium chloride if needed. You’ll keep water balanced and protect surfaces and equipment as part of your pool care community.
