What is one consequence of high pH in a swimming pool?

High pH in a swimming pool can lead to increased chlorine demand, meaning that more chlorine is required to effectively sanitize the water. When the pH level is above the recommended range (typically around 7.2 to 7.8), chlorine becomes less effective at killing harmful bacteria and organic contaminants. This reduced efficacy means that the sanitizer must be added in greater amounts to maintain safe water conditions. Without adequate chlorine levels, swimmers may be exposed to harmful pathogens, and the overall water quality can degrade, necessitating more frequent adjustments to the chemical balance in the pool. High pH can entrap chlorine, leading to the need for higher doses to achieve the desired disinfection levels.