Pool Mate Alkalinity Increaser for Pools 20 lb — Sodium Bicarbonate, Stabilizes pH and Prevents Scale

Pool Mate 20-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser is a sodium bicarbonate formula that raises and stabilizes total alkalinity to reduce pH swings in swimming pools.

Keeping pool water balanced prevents damage and helps sanitizers perform consistently. This 20-pound container of Pool Mate alkalinity increaser dissolves quickly and is formulated to boost total alkalinity (TA) to recommended ranges for different pool surfaces. Use it as part of routine testing and dosing to minimize scale formation, metal corrosion and surface etching while helping maintain more predictable pH levels.

How does this product stabilize pool pH and why does that matter?

Raising total alkalinity with sodium bicarbonate increases the water’s ability to resist sudden pH changes, commonly called pH bounce. A stable pH protects pool finishes and helps chlorine and other sanitizers work more efficiently, reducing the need for frequent large adjustments.

• Uses sodium bicarbonate, a common buffering agent for pools.
• Targets recommended TA ranges to limit pH fluctuation.
• Helps maintain sanitizer effectiveness for steadier chlorine readings.

How much should I add and how quickly will it work?

The product label includes a dosing table based on pool volume; as a guide, 11 ounces of this material raises alkalinity by about 10 ppm in 5,000 gallons. Add the powder directly to circulating water with the pump running and allow time for complete dissolution and mixing before retesting.

• 11 ounces ≈ +10 ppm TA per 5,000 gallons.
• Apply while the pump is operating for even dispersion.
• Retest after a few hours; repeat dosing only as needed per measurements.

Which alkalinity ranges should I aim for with different pool surfaces?

Different pool materials have varying TA recommendations to protect finishes and maintain water chemistry. Use the suggested ranges as a starting point and adjust slightly based on local water source and seasonal conditions.

• Fiberglass pools: aim for about 70–100 ppm TA.
• Marcite, painted, tile or exposed aggregate: 80–120 ppm TA.
• Vinyl pools: 120–140 ppm TA to protect liners.

Will using this product affect equipment and surfaces?

Maintaining proper alkalinity helps prevent scale deposits, metal corrosion and etching that can shorten the life of pool plaster, equipment and fixtures. While it supports surface protection, always follow balanced chemistry practices—control pH, calcium hardness and sanitizer levels as well.

• Reduces risk of plaster etching from unstable water.
• Helps limit metal corrosion when combined with correct pH management.
• Dissolves quickly to minimize cloudy dosing periods.

Who this is for: Pool Mate 20-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser is designed for pool owners and maintenance professionals who want a reliable, easy-to-use sodium bicarbonate product to correct low total alkalinity and maintain steady pH. It’s suitable for all common pool types—fiberglass, vinyl, plaster, tile and exposed aggregate—and works well as part of regular testing-and-dosing routines for private pools, rental properties and service contracts. Always test TA with a trusted kit, follow label dosing instructions and combine with routine pH and sanitizer checks for the best results.