Why did your pool water turn green after adding arm and hammer baking soda clairifier?

Adding Arm & Hammer baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to a swimming pool as a clarifier is not a common pool water treatment method and is generally not recommended by pool care professionals. If your pool water turned green after adding baking soda, it's likely due to a different cause.

Green pool water typically indicates the presence of algae growth, which can occur due to several factors such as:

1. Lack of Proper Sanitizer: Insufficient levels of chlorine or other sanitizers in the pool can allow algae to thrive.

2. High pH Levels: High pH levels (above the recommended range of 7.2-7.8) can make the pool water more alkaline and create a favorable environment for algae growth.

3. Inadequate Water Circulation: Poor water circulation prevents effective distribution of sanitizers throughout the pool, allowing algae to accumulate in areas with low sanitizer concentration.

4. Nitrogen Source: Some sources of nitrogen, such as dirt, debris, leaves, or body fluids from swimmers, can act as nutrients for algae growth.

If you notice your pool water turning green, it's essential to address the underlying cause to effectively treat the algae problem:

1. Check Chlorine/Sanitizer Levels: Ensure the chlorine or other sanitizer levels are within the recommended range (usually 1-4 parts per million for chlorine). Adjust as necessary.

2. Adjust pH Levels: Test and adjust the pH levels to the ideal range of 7.2-7.8 using pH increaser or decreaser.

3. Improve Water Circulation: Run your pool pump continuously for at least 10-12 hours a day to ensure proper water circulation and even distribution of sanitizers.

4. Clean the Pool: Thoroughly clean the pool, including vacuuming the bottom and removing debris and dirt from the water surface and pool walls.

5. Use an Algaecide: Consider using an algaecide specifically designed for pool water to target and kill algae growth.

6. Backwash and Rinse the Filter: Perform backwashing and rinsing of the pool filter regularly to remove accumulated dirt and debris that can contribute to algae growth.

7. Avoid Overcrowding: Avoid excessive bather loads, as body oils, lotions, and other substances introduced by swimmers can contribute to algae growth.

Remember that maintaining proper chemical balance, including appropriate sanitizer levels and pH, is crucial for preventing algae and keeping your pool water clean and safe for swimming. If the green water persists or you're unsure how to proceed, it's best to consult with a professional pool care service for assistance.