Test the pool water to confirm total alkalinity is low
Use sodium bicarbonate to raise total alkalinity
Add the sodium bicarbonate in small doses
Broadcast it evenly across the pool surface
Keep the pump running to circulate the water
Wait several hours before retesting
Retest total alkalinity after each adjustment
Repeat small additions until the target range is reached
Avoid adding too much at once
Adjust pH if needed after alkalinity is corrected