---
title: "What Is Total alkalinity? Pool Glossary | Marina Pool Services"
description: "Total alkalinity is the water's ability to resist pH changes, and it works as a pH buffer. Plain-English pool glossary from Marina Pool Services in Grapevine, TX."
url: https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/total-alkalinity
publisher: Marina Pool Services
phone: +1-817-896-1120
quote: https://marinapool.multisites.ai/contact
---

Water chemistry

# Total alkalinity

Total alkalinity is the water's ability to resist pH changes, and it works as a pH buffer.

Total alkalinity keeps pH from bouncing. Low alkalinity lets pH swing fast. High alkalinity makes pH hard to move and often leads to cloudy water and scale.

Because alkalinity and [pH](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/ph) affect each other, fix alkalinity first, then pH. Raise alkalinity with [baking soda](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/sodium-bicarbonate). Lower it with acid, and use only the amount the label gives. Check your pool maker or a service pro for the target that fits your surface and sanitizer. Test every week, and again after you add acid.

[Marina can helpPool Maintenance Services](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/our-services/pool-maintenance-services)

## Related terms

-   [pH](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/ph)
-   [Sodium bicarbonate](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/sodium-bicarbonate)
-   [Muriatic acid](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/muriatic-acid)
-   [Water balance](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/water-balance)

## Need a hand with your pool?

Call or text and tell us what your pool needs. Estimates are free for qualifying services, and same-day estimates are possible when the schedule allows.

[Call (817) 896-1120](tel:+1-817-896-1120)[Get a quote](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/contact)

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