Alkalinity Increaser Sodium Bicarbonate 4kg | Pool & Spa
pH swings driving you crazy? Alkalinity Increaser (Sodium Bicarbonate) is the essential buffer that keeps your pool or spa water stable, stopping pH from bouncing up and down every time you add chemicals, it rains, or bather load changes.
Without adequate Total Alkalinity, pH becomes impossible to control. Chlorine loses effectiveness, water turns corrosive, and your equipment pays the price. A correct Total Alkalinity level of 80-120 ppm is the foundation of balanced water chemistry.
Product Specifications
| Active Ingredient | Sodium Bicarbonate |
| Size | 4kg |
| Target Range (Pools) | 80-120 ppm Total Alkalinity |
| Target Range (Spas) | 80-125 ppm Total Alkalinity |
| Suitable For | All pool and spa types |
| Packaging | Resealable moisture-resistant pail |
Key Features
- Sodium Bicarbonate Formula. The gold standard for raising Total Alkalinity without significantly affecting pH.
- pH-Neutral Action. Raises Total Alkalinity while keeping pH movement minimal.
- Fast-Dissolving. Disperses quickly for even distribution throughout the water.
- Dual-Purpose. Suitable for swimming pools and spa pools of all types.
- Protects Equipment. Prevents corrosion of pumps, heaters, and fittings caused by low Total Alkalinity.
Dosing Guide
Swimming Pools:
- Add 1.5kg per 50,000L to raise Total Alkalinity by approximately 10 ppm
- Pre-dissolve in a bucket of water before adding to the pool
- Add near a return jet with the pump running
- Allow 6 hours of circulation, then retest before adding more
Spa Pools:
- Add 30g per 1,000L to raise Total Alkalinity by approximately 10 ppm
- Run jets while adding for even distribution
- Retest after 30 minutes before re-dosing
Tip: Always adjust Total Alkalinity before adjusting pH. Getting Total Alkalinity right first makes pH much easier to control. Test with strips before and after every dose.
Available Sizes
- 1kg Pail - ideal for spas or small top-up doses
- 4kg Pail (this product) - most popular for regular pool maintenance
- 10kg Pail - best value for large pools or frequent use
Recommended Accessories
- pH Increaser (Soda Ash) 4kg - once Total Alkalinity is correct, use to fine-tune pH up to 7.2-7.6.
- Crystalline Chlorine 4kg - sanitise at the correct Total Alkalinity and pH for maximum effectiveness.
- 5-in-1 Test Strips - test Total Alkalinity, pH, and chlorine before and after every dose.
- Spa Pool Starter Kit - includes Alkalinity Increaser plus everything needed for a fresh fill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between alkalinity and pH?
A: Total Alkalinity is the buffer that keeps pH stable. Think of Total Alkalinity as the anchor, without it pH drifts constantly. Always correct Total Alkalinity first, then adjust pH.
Q: How quickly does Alkalinity Increaser work?
A: It begins working within minutes of application. Allow 6 hours of full circulation before retesting and re-dosing if needed.
Q: Can I add Alkalinity Increaser and chlorine at the same time?
A: No, adjust alkalinity first, wait 6 hours, then add chlorine. Adding both together reduces the effectiveness of both chemicals.
Q: What if my Total Alkalinity is too high?
A: High Total Alkalinity (above 150 ppm) is corrected by adding a pH Decreaser (Sodium Bisulphate) and aerating the water. Test regularly to avoid overcorrecting.
Q: How often will I need to adjust alkalinity?
A: Test weekly during summer and after heavy rain or high bather load. Spas should be tested after every use or at least weekly.
Q: Is this safe for all pool types?
A: Yes, safe for concrete, fibreglass, vinyl liner, and tiled pools, and all spa pool types.
Pickup and Delivery
Perfect Pools Service Warehouse - 15C Douglas Alexander Parade, Albany, Auckland
Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm | Sat 10am-2pm
NZ-wide delivery available. Charges calculated at checkout.
Questions? Email perfectpoolsnz@gmail.com or visit our contact page.
