When do i add shock to my pool

Shock is a form of chlorine that is used to treat your pool. Pool shock is often referred to as a granular oxidizer. It can also be bought in a liquid form. The liquid form comes in a container similar to laundry bleach. It dissolves quickly because it is liquid and has no residue. You have to be careful when using liquid shock because if any gets on your clothes, it will bleach them.

Pool shock can also come in a granular form. This often has to be dissolved in water and then poured into your pool. The granular shock is often stronger than the liquid shock. Some granular shock is also poured directly into the pool depending on the type. Some people prefer the liquid shock while others will use the granular shock. Total Chlorine: The total amount which includes both free and combined chlorine. How Shocking your Pool Works Contaminants can get into pools and combine with chlorine.

If the free chlorine level is not concentrated enough, it can cause the contaminant to become inert without fully removing it. Combined chlorine or chloramines are ineffective in breaking down harmful bacteria and undesirable organisms. Shocking a pool elevates the free chlorine level to ppm. Elevated levels of free chlorine break up combined chlorine. Once your pool has been shocked, the water will be clean, clear, and safe for your family to enjoy.

Every couple of weeks during the swimming season. When your pool is outside of the recommended free chlorine levels of ppm. Shocking your pool will raise the chlorine level. What about a salt pool? Some tell-tale signs that your pool needs to be shocked are cloudy, foamy, green, or odourous water.

The best time of day to shock your pool is in the evening. You should shock your swimming pool once a week to keep the water clean and safe. Along with regular maintenance, there are other times it should be shocked as well, including:. While your pool has been closed for the cooler months, it may have a build-up of bacteria and algae. When opening your pool in the late spring, shocking the water can help to rid it of contaminants. Have you entertained guests or thrown a pool party? With an increased number of swimmers and heavier use, the more likely it is that bacteria and other contaminants such as shampoo, soap and oils will be transmitted into the water.

This can lead to a drop in the chlorine levels, which increases the need of pool shock. But there is a generally accepted guideline of once every 1 to 2 weeks to keep your pool water performing at its highest level. About Us Privacy Policy. Starter Guide. Share on facebook. Share on twitter. Share on pinterest.

Share on linkedin. Pool Care , Pool Chemistry. By Rick Patterson November 22, No one contests that pool shock is a highly effective method for sanitizing your pool.

But, how often to shock a pool is a hotly debated issue in the pool owner community.