Total Alkalinity (TA) is a very important component of water balancing. Its main role is to help maintain the pH in proper balance. The best definition of alkalinity is: « the ability of water to resist a change in pH ». In other words, once you have successfully balanced your pH in the range of 7.4 to 7.6, it is alkalinity that helps you maintain it. The secondary role of alkalinity is to help provide the overall mineral content that all water needs to avoid unnecessary damage to surfaces. Water low in alkalinity (TA) will see the pH bounce up and down almost uncontrollably. Pool surfaces are also at risk of long-term corrosion damage, especially vinyl liners. High alkalinity water (TA) will have a consistently high pH and will need to be reduced, increasing the risk of scale formation and cloudy water.