Pool Mate 20-Pounds Alkalinity Increaser - Stabilizes Pool pH

In this review of the Pool Mate 20-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser, the bottom line is simple: it is for pool owners who need a reliable, cost-effective way to raise and stabilize total alkalinity. The product is pure sodium bicarbonate designed to boost total alkalinity, which in turn helps keep pH levels steady and improves sanitizer effectiveness. Tested against everyday pool care needs, this increaser dissolves quickly and follows an easy dosing method; the main reason to buy is its direct, predictable effect on alkalinity without additives.

Key Features

• 100% Sodium Bicarbonate: A single-ingredient formula provides predictable chemistry without extra compounds that could alter results.
• Raises Total Alkalinity: Specifically formulated to increase alkalinity so pool water pH remains more stable over time.
• Simple Dosing: 11 ounces raises alkalinity about 10 ppm per 5,000 gallons, allowing straightforward adjustments with common pool sizes.
• Protects Pool Surfaces: Maintaining recommended alkalinity reduces the risk of plaster etching and metal corrosion to protect equipment and finishes.
• Fast Dissolving: Designed to dissolve quickly when added with the pump running, making it easy to apply during routine maintenance.
• Improves Sanitizer Performance: By stabilizing alkalinity, it helps chemical disinfectants work more effectively, reducing pH bounce.

Who It's For

This product is aimed at backyard pool owners and seasonal maintenance providers who check water chemistry regularly and want a straightforward way to correct low alkalinity. It is especially useful for those with fiberglass, marcite, painted, tile, exposed aggregate or vinyl pools who must hit specific alkalinity ranges to protect surfaces.

Those who should look elsewhere include buyers seeking a multi-functional chemical blend or an instant pH reducer; this is a dedicated alkalinity increaser and works as part of a broader water care routine rather than as a single-solution kit.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Value for money: customers report it is an economical alternative to other baking soda sources.
• Functionality: reliably raises total alkalinity and reduces pH bounce when used per instructions.
• Ease of use: dissolves quickly and is applied directly while the pump runs, simplifying maintenance.
• Quality: a pure sodium bicarbonate product that avoids unnecessary additives.

Cons

• Limitation: dosing requires measuring and knowledge of pool volume, so it is not a one-size-fits-all premeasured option.
• Limitation: if alkalinity is already high, this product is not suitable and other measures are required to lower alkalinity.

Specifications

Brand	Pool Mate
Active Ingredient	100% sodium bicarbonate
Net Weight	20 pounds
Dosing Guideline	11 ounces raises alkalinity ~10 ppm per 5,000 gallons
Primary Effect	Raises total alkalinity to help stabilize pH
Pool Types	Fiberglass, marcite, painted, tile, exposed aggregate, vinyl

Our Verdict

Pool owners who test water regularly will find this alkalinity increaser to be a practical, no-frills option that delivers steady results and protects surfaces when used as directed. It is good value for routine maintenance and works well with standard pool chemistry testing and dosing practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it raise alkalinity?
About 11 ounces will raise total alkalinity roughly 10 ppm in 5,000 gallons of water; adjust proportionally for different volumes.

When should I add it?
Add directly to the pool water while the pump is running after testing total alkalinity and following the included dosing table.

Will it affect pH?
It raises total alkalinity which helps stabilize pH and reduce pH bounce, but you should test and adjust pH separately if needed.