Pool Mate Calcium Hardness Increaser 8 lb - Rapidly Raises Hardness

In this review the Pool Mate 8-Pounds Premium Calcium Hardness Increaser is presented as a straightforward solution for pool owners who need to raise and stabilize calcium hardness. The bottom line: it is for backyard pool owners and service techs who test water regularly and need a concentrated, fast-dissolving calcium chloride product to prevent corrosion and etching. The single biggest reason to buy is its predictable dosing: 8 ounces raises calcium hardness roughly 10 ppm per 5,000 gallons, making treatment planning simple.

Key Features

• 100% Calcium Chloride: A pure active ingredient that reliably increases total hardness without added fillers, so adjustments are accurate.
• Rapidly increases total hardness: The granular formula dissolves quickly in pool water for faster results compared with slower settling alternatives.
• Prevents corrosion and etching: Raising calcium to the recommended range helps protect vinyl, tile, exposed aggregate and plaster surfaces from damage.
• Clear dosing guideline: 8 ounces raises hardness about 10 ppm per 5,000 gallons, making it easy to calculate amounts for common pool sizes.
• Safe application method: Directions call for dissolving in a plastic bucket and adding while the pump runs, which helps even distribution and reduces local concentration spikes.

Who It's For

The product fits owners of residential vinyl, tile, exposed aggregate, marcite, fiberglass or painted pools who monitor water chemistry and need to bring calcium hardness into the recommended range (200-400 ppm depending on surface). It is also useful for pool technicians who want a dense, predictable compound for routine maintenance.

It is not aimed at someone who has not tested calcium hardness first or who prefers liquid conditioners; users should test with a reliable kit and follow the included chart. Those who struggle with opening sealed containers or who want premixed, ready-to-pour liquids may want to consider alternatives.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Effectively raises calcium hardness when dosed per the instructions.
• Good value and quality for a pure calcium chloride product.
• Dissolves quickly, even in cooler water, enabling faster correction of low hardness.

Cons

• Some users report difficulty opening the container, which can be frustrating during treatment.
• Requires careful measurement and pre-dissolving in a bucket, so it is less convenient than ready-to-use liquids.

Specifications

Brand	Pool Mate
Active ingredient	100% calcium chloride
Package weight	8 pounds
Dosing guideline	8 oz raises 10 ppm per 5,000 gallons
Recommended hardness range	Vinyl 200-300 ppm; Tile/Aggregate 200-400 ppm; Fiberglass/Marcite 250-400 ppm
Application form	Dry granular; dissolve in plastic bucket before adding

Our Verdict

The Pool Mate 8 lb calcium hardness increaser is a practical, cost-effective choice for pool owners who test water and need a reliable way to raise hardness and protect surfaces. With clear dosing and fast dissolution it delivers predictable results and solid value, though it requires basic measuring and pre-dissolving steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much will this raise my pool hardness?
8 ounces will raise calcium hardness about 10 ppm per 5,000 gallons of water; calculate total required dose from your pool volume.

How should it be added to the pool?
Dissolve the measured amount in a plastic bucket filled with pool water (up to 2 lb per 5-gallon bucket), then slowly pour around the pool perimeter with the pump running.

Is it safe for all pool surfaces?
Yes when used to reach the recommended ranges: vinyl 200-300 ppm, tile and exposed aggregate 200-400 ppm, marcite/fiberglass/painted 250-400 ppm.