Calculate Your Pool Water Volume
Knowing your pool's exact water volume is essential for proper chemical treatment, heating calculations, and equipment sizing. Our Pool Volume Calculator supports rectangular, circular, and oval pools with instant results in both gallons and liters.
Pool Volume Formulas by Shape
Different pool shapes use different volume calculations:
| Pool Shape | Formula | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rectangular | Length × Width × Avg Depth × 7.5 | 7.5 converts cubic feet to gallons |
| Circular | π × Radius² × Avg Depth × 7.5 | Radius = Diameter ÷ 2 |
| Oval | π × Length × Width × Avg Depth × 5.9 | Approximation for oval shapes |
Average Depth Calculation
Most pools have sloped bottoms. To find average depth:
Chemical Dosing Guidelines
Based on your pool volume, here are typical chemical requirements per 10,000 gallons:
| Chemical | Amount per 10,000 gal | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chlorine (shock) | 1 lb | Sanitization, kill bacteria |
| pH Increaser (soda ash) | 6 oz | Raise pH by 0.2 units |
| pH Decreaser (sodium bisulfate) | 8 oz | Lower pH by 0.2 units |
| Alkalinity Increaser | 1.5 lbs | Raise alkalinity by 10 ppm |
Volume Formula Details
Understanding the conversion factors:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:How do I measure my pool if it has an irregular shape?
For irregular shapes, divide the pool into sections (rectangles, circles) and calculate each section separately, then add them together. Alternatively, consult your pool's original construction plans for exact specifications.
Q:Should I use US gallons or Imperial gallons?
Use US gallons if you're in the United States (1 gal = 3.785 L). Use Imperial gallons if you're in the UK or Canada (1 gal = 4.546 L). Chemical dosing instructions typically specify which gallon measure they use.
Q:How often should I test my pool's chemical levels?
Test at least 2-3 times per week during swimming season, and once a week in off-season. After heavy use, rainstorms, or adding chemicals, test again within 24 hours. Consistent testing prevents algae growth and ensures safe swimming.
Q:What if my pool has a sloped or curved bottom?
Use the average depth method: measure the shallow and deep ends, then calculate (Shallow + Deep) ÷ 2. This provides a close approximation. For very complex bottoms, consider professional measurement or use the pool's specs from the builder.