Borates are a lesser-known but highly effective pool additive that helps stabilise pH, soften water, and reduce chlorine usage. With the Pool Borate Calculator, you can accurately determine how much borax or boric acid to add to maintain optimal levels in your swimming pool.
Why Add Borates to Your Pool?
Adding borates enhances water quality and comfort. Here’s what they do:
- Buffer pH: Helps maintain a stable pH, reducing the need for constant chemical adjustments
- Improves Clarity: Gives your water that sparkling, “polished” look
- Softens Water: Makes swimming feel smoother on the skin and eyes
- Algae Control: Acts as a mild algaestat, supporting chlorine’s effectiveness
Ideal Borate Range
- Recommended range: 30–50 ppm
- Levels above 50 ppm are unnecessary and may increase cost without added benefit
How to Use the Pool Borate Calculator
You’ll need:
- Pool volume in litres
- Current borate level
- Desired borate level
- Type of product: Borax, Boric Acid, or Sodium Tetraborate Pentahydrate
Sample Dosage Guide (for a 50,000L pool):
- To raise borates by 10 ppm:
- Add approx 1.1 kg of borax
- Or 950g of boric acid
Always dissolve borax in warm water before adding it to the pool.
Adding Borates Step-by-Step
- Test your current borate level (use a borate test strip)
- Calculate the amount of borate required
- Add slowly, with pump running and good water circulation
- Retest after 24 hours and adjust if necessary
Maintenance Tip
Borates remain stable in water and don’t break down quickly. Once added, they only need to be topped up occasionally—usually after water is lost due to backwashing, leaks, or draining.
Internal Links
- Pool pH Calculator: How To Get Your pH Level In Range
- Pool Alkalinity Calculator: What to Add & How Much
- How to Maintain Your Pool
External Links
FAQ Section
1. What’s the best borate product to use in a pool?
Boric acid is often preferred because it’s pH-neutral. However, borax (sodium borate) is more widely available and budget-friendly.
2. Can I add borates to a saltwater pool?
Yes, borates are safe and beneficial for all types of pools, including saltwater systems.
3. Are borates safe for swimmers?
Yes. At recommended levels (30–50 ppm), borates are safe and non-toxic to swimmers and pets who don’t drink from the pool.
4. How often do I need to add borates?
Typically, once or twice a year, depending on water loss from splashing, draining, or backwashing.
5. Can I use laundry borax in my pool?
Yes, as long as it’s 100% pure borax (sodium borate). Avoid products with added fragrances or detergents.
With the Pool Borate Calculator, you can balance your water chemistry like a pro, enhancing both pool comfort and clarity. If you’re located in Cape Town or anywhere in the Western Cape and want expert assistance, Pools Reno offers chemical balancing, maintenance, and supply solutions for all pool types.
6. Calcium Hardness Calculator: How Much Calcium Chloride to Add (or Water to Replace).
