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Mastering Pool Shocking: The Ultimate Guide to When, Why, and How to Shock Your Pool
Why Should You Shock Your Pool?
When to Shock a Pool
During swimming season, it’s advisable to shock your pool at least weekly – more frequently following a gathering or severe weather, suggests Homes & Gardens. Indicators such as algae, foamy water, or cloudiness signal the need for pool shock.
Interestingly, a strong chlorine odor in your pool is abnormal. According to Swim University, this implies the chlorine is no longer sanitizing the water, necessitating a shock treatment.
Prior to shocking your pool, test the pH and chlorine levels. Your local pool specialist can guide you on the optimal chemical levels for your pool.
Choosing the Correct Pool Shock
Pool shock is available in liquid, powdered, or granular forms. While all are effective, their application methods vary.
Liquid pool shock is generally more cost-effective. It sanitizes rapidly and can be directly added to the pool. However, it must be handled cautiously due to the risks of splashes and spills. Liquid pool shock is corrosive and harmful to skin, eyes, and respiratory systems.
Powdered pool shock has a longer shelf life and is easier to transport. Most granular pool shocks need to be dissolved in a bucket of pool water before being added. Any residue left should be vacuumed out before re-entering the pool.
How to Shock a Pool
Prior to adding pool shock, ensure the pool’s pH level is between 7.2 and 7.8. You might need to adjust the pH with an increaser or decreaser. Then, add the correct quantity of shock based on your pool’s size and chlorine levels.
The amount of shock required depends on the pool’s size and the type of shock used. For calcium hypochlorite or sodium dichlor, common granular shocks, use one pound of granules per 10,000 gallons of water. For sodium hypochlorite, or liquid chlorine, use 10 ounces per 10,000 gallons of pool water.
Pool Calculator offers this equation: Length of your pool (feet) x width (feet) x depth (feet) x 7.5 = volume in gallons.
When treating algae, you might need to double or triple the pool shock amount.
Always wear gloves and eye protection and closely follow the manufacturer’s directions when handling pool shock.
Run your pool pump while adding pool shock chemicals and continue for six to eight hours afterward. Retest the chlorine levels and add more shock if needed.
What Does Pool Shock Achieve?
Shock introduces a significant dose of chlorine to your pool to rapidly elevate chlorine levels. The combination of shock and chlorine tablets disinfects pool water and maintains sufficient chlorine levels to continue eliminating harmful microorganisms.
A pool shock treatment may also increase the pH level of the water and cause temporary cloudiness.
Reentering the Pool
Health recommends waiting at least 24 hours after shocking your pool before swimming. Test the water ensuring chlorine, pH, and other chemicals are at safe levels before allowing anyone back in.
Shocking your pool water is a swift and straightforward method to keep your pool sparkling clean. Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling shock treatments and adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Treat your pool with extra care! Regular shocking guarantees crystal clear water throughout the season.
Explore T-Shirtmeng’s Pool & Spa Store for pool chemicals, pool floats, and equipment.
