What defines balanced water in a swimming pool?

Balanced water in a swimming pool refers to the correct ratios of hardness, alkalinity, temperature, and pH. This balance is crucial for ensuring that the water is safe, comfortable for swimmers, and effective in maintaining the integrity of the pool and its equipment.

When the hardness, alkalinity, and pH levels are properly maintained, the water becomes less corrosive and less likely to cause issues such as scale formation, staining, or irritation to swimmers' skin and eyes. Achieving a balanced water profile means that the pool water is neither too acidic (low pH) nor too alkaline (high pH), and it has the right amount of total dissolved solids, including hardness minerals and alkalinity buffers, to prevent fluctuations in water chemistry.

Other options suggest factors that do not define balanced water. Low pH and high chlorine can lead to corrosive conditions, while high temperature and dissolved solids might affect the comfort and safety of the swimming environment. Lastly, pure soft water does not take into account the necessary mineral balance that is part of balanced water chemistry, which is determined by both hardness and alkalinity levels.