Which is better to use lower Total Alkalinity level Muriatic Acid or pH Minus?

While both muriatic acid and pH Minus can lower the pH level of pool water, muriatic acid also lowers the Total Alkalinity level, while pH Minus does not.

This is because muriatic acid is an acid that reacts with the carbonate and bicarbonate ions in water to form carbon dioxide gas and water, while pH Minus is an acid that does not react with these ions.

The purpose of pH Minus is mainly to lower the pH level of pool water, while the purpose of muriatic acid is to lower both the pH level and the Total Alkalinity level.

Total alkalinity is a measure of the amount of dissolved alkaline substances in water, such as carbonates and bicarbonates.

It is important to maintain a proper Total Alkalinity level in pool water because it helps to stabilize the pH level and prevents the water from becoming corrosive.

If the Total Alkalinity level is too high, it can cause the pH level to rise and the water to become cloudy or scale to form on the pool surfaces.

If the Total Alkalinity level is too low, it can cause the pH level to drop and the water to become corrosive, which can damage the pool liner and equipment.

pH is a measure of the acidity or basicity of water, and it is expressed on a scale from 0 to 14.

The pH level of pool water should be maintained between 7.2 and 7.8, slightly alkaline, as this range helps to prevent corrosion and the growth of bacteria and algae.

pH Minus is a granular chemical specifically designed to lower the pH level of pool water. It typically contains sodium bisulfate or potassium bisulfate, which are strong acids.

Muriatic acid, also known as hydrochloric acid, is an extremely strong acid that is typically used to lower the pH level of pool water when needed quickly and when the Total Alkalinity level is also high.

However, it should be used cautiously as it can be corrosive and harmful if not handled properly.