To test the pH, fill a clean glass with pool water and add the drops from the pool test kit according to the instructions. Then, compare the colour of the water in the glass to the chart included in the kit. The ideal pH for a pool is between 7.2 and 7.6.

If your pool's pH is too low, you can raise it by adding sodium carbonate (also called soda ash). If your pool's pH is too high, you can lower it by adding muriatic acid.

If the water is outside of the ideal pH range (between 7.2 and 7.8 ), you'll need to take steps to adjust it accordingly. This can be done by adding chemicals like muriatic acid or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda).