What substance is typically used to lower pH in pool water?

Muriatic acid is commonly used to lower the pH in pool water. It is a strong acid, specifically a diluted form of hydrochloric acid, that effectively reduces the pH level when added to water. Maintaining the proper pH balance is crucial for pool maintenance, as it impacts the effectiveness of disinfectants, the comfort of swimmers, and the longevity of pool equipment and surfaces.

While sodium bisulfate is another substance that can lower pH, muriatic acid is more widely recognized and used for this purpose due to its effectiveness and availability. Sodium carbonate, on the other hand, is used to increase pH, while calcium hypochlorite is primarily a chlorine source used for sanitation purposes rather than pH adjustment.