What is the consequence of having a pH below 7.2 in a public pool?

Having a pH level below 7.2 in a public pool is significant because it can lead to various issues related to water chemistry and swimmer safety. A proper pH range for pool water is typically between 7.2 and 7.8. When the pH falls below 7.2, it becomes more acidic, which can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system of swimmers. Additionally, low pH levels can lead to accelerated corrosion of pool equipment, fixtures, and even the pool structure itself.

Due to these potential health and safety concerns, public health regulations often require that pools maintain their pH within the acceptable range. If the pH drops below this threshold, it often results in the immediate closure of the pool until the water chemistry can be adjusted and brought back to safe levels. This is crucial for both swimmer safety and to prevent damage to the pool facilities.

In contrast, a pH below 7.2 would not improve swimmer comfort, enhance clarity, or increase chlorine effectiveness. In fact, lower pH can reduce the effectiveness of chlorine at certain levels and could potentially lead to poor water quality and overall swimmer discomfort.