What Happens If You Swim in a Pool with High pH? And Why Do Fish Suddenly Start Writing Poetry?

What Happens If You Swim in a Pool with High pH? And Why Do Fish Suddenly Start Writing Poetry?

Swimming in a pool with high pH levels can lead to a variety of unexpected consequences, both for your health and the pool itself. But before we dive into the details, let’s ponder this: why do fish suddenly start writing poetry when the pH levels rise? Is it a cry for help, or are they simply inspired by the alkaline environment? Let’s explore the science, the myths, and the bizarre possibilities.


The Science Behind High pH in Pools

pH, or “potential of hydrogen,” measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is on a scale from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral, while anything below 7 is acidic, and anything above 7 is alkaline. For swimming pools, the ideal pH range is between 7.2 and 7.8. When the pH rises above this range, the water becomes too alkaline, leading to a cascade of issues.

1. Skin and Eye Irritation

High pH levels can disrupt the natural balance of your skin and eyes. Alkaline water strips away the protective oils on your skin, leaving it dry, itchy, and prone to irritation. Your eyes may also feel gritty and red, as the high pH disrupts the tear film that keeps them lubricated. Imagine stepping out of the pool looking like you’ve just attended a tearful poetry reading by fish—uncomfortable and slightly surreal.

2. Reduced Effectiveness of Chlorine

Chlorine is the superhero of pool sanitation, but it has a kryptonite: high pH. When the pH is too high, chlorine becomes less effective at killing bacteria and algae. This means your pool could turn into a breeding ground for microorganisms, making it less safe for swimming. It’s like inviting a poet to a party and then realizing they’ve forgotten how to rhyme—utterly disappointing.

3. Cloudy Water

High pH can cause minerals like calcium to precipitate out of the water, leading to cloudy or murky conditions. This not only makes the pool less inviting but also reduces visibility, making it harder to spot any poetic fish swimming by. Cloudy water is the equivalent of a poorly written metaphor—confusing and hard to navigate.

4. Scale Formation

When pH levels are too high, calcium carbonate can form scales on pool surfaces, equipment, and even your swimsuit. These scales are stubborn and difficult to remove, much like a bad poem that sticks in your head long after you’ve read it.


The Mythical Connection Between High pH and Fish Poetry

Now, let’s address the elephant—or rather, the fish—in the room. Why do fish start writing poetry when the pH rises? While there’s no scientific evidence to support this claim, we can speculate. Perhaps the alkaline environment triggers a creative spark in their tiny brains. Or maybe they’re trying to communicate their discomfort in the only way they know how: through haikus about bubbles and chlorine.


How to Fix High pH in Your Pool

If you’ve noticed your pool’s pH creeping up, don’t panic. Here are some steps to restore balance:

  1. Test the Water: Use a reliable pH test kit to determine the current levels.
  2. Add pH Reducer: Sodium bisulfate or muriatic acid can lower the pH effectively.
  3. Circulate the Water: Run the pool pump to distribute the chemicals evenly.
  4. Retest and Adjust: Wait a few hours, then retest the water to ensure the pH is within the ideal range.

FAQs

Q: Can high pH levels in a pool cause long-term damage to my skin?
A: Prolonged exposure to high pH water can lead to dryness and irritation, but it’s unlikely to cause permanent damage if addressed promptly.

Q: Why does high pH make chlorine less effective?
A: High pH shifts the balance of chlorine molecules, reducing the amount of hypochlorous acid available to kill bacteria and algae.

Q: Do fish really write poetry in high pH water?
A: While it’s a charming idea, there’s no evidence to support this claim. It’s more likely a whimsical metaphor for the strange effects of high pH.

Q: How often should I test my pool’s pH?
A: It’s recommended to test your pool’s pH at least twice a week, especially during heavy use or after adding chemicals.


In conclusion, swimming in a pool with high pH is not only uncomfortable but also potentially harmful. By understanding the science and taking proactive steps to maintain balance, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming experience. And who knows? Maybe one day, we’ll discover that fish really do have a knack for poetry—just not in high pH water.