Should you run your swimming pool pump after adding muriatic acid or turn it off and if you turn it off for how long?

Answer 1

If you are adjusting pH, add acid by spreading it around the pool with filter pump ON. Leave pump run for a couple of hours after adding acid. If you attempting to adjust Alkalinity, add acid by pouring into one spot in the deep end, with filter pump OFF. Leave pump OFF overnight. I disagree with the statement above. The pump should remain running in all instances. If your pump is scheduled to shut down in less than an hour then wait till the next day where you can add the acid earlier in the day. With the last 2 sentences - that is probably the worst possible answer. Acid poured in a "column" ( one spot) will find it's way to the main drain grate and settle there at the grate and in the sump until the pump starts the next day. Thus sucking all that acid solution directly into the system and the heater - the worse place it could possibly be. The acid may dissapate some in the overnight hours but it may not all get diluted.

Answer 2

It depnds on the amount, but a good rule of thumb is wait at minimum one hour before swimming.

You pool water may contain "hot spots" that still have acid. If you swim through one of those, well, you'll probably feel like replacing your eyes.

Answer 3

Yes, you should leave it on. This way the acid will be run through the filter.