If you own a pool, you know that keeping it clean and safe for swimming is a top priority. One important step in pool maintenance is shocking the pool with chlorine. Chlorine pool shock is an essential process in swimming pool maintenance that helps keep the water clean, clear, and safe for swimmers. It involves adding a concentrated dose of chlorine to the pool to rapidly increase the chlorine level and sanitize the water. This process helps to eradicate bacteria and other contaminants that can build up over time. But how do you know when to shock your pool, and how much chlorine should you use?
In this ultimate guide to chlorine pool shock, we will cover everything you need to know about this crucial process to keep your pool sparkling clean and ready for summer fun.
What Is Pool Shock?
Pool shock is a process of adding a large amount of chlorine to your pool in order to eliminate bacteria, algae, and other contaminants. It’s important because these contaminants can build up over time and create an unhealthy swimming environment. It is usually done using chlorine granules or powdered form of chlorine, which dissolves quickly in the water and works rapidly rather than chlorine tablets for pool. Pool shock is typically used as a periodic treatment to supplement the regular chlorination routine and maintain proper water quality for swimming. It’s especially important after heavy use, such as a pool party or a period of hot weather, when the water may be more prone to contamination.
Chloro Maxx 90 are effective chlorine granules, made by Zyax. When added to the water, the granules dissolve and release Hypochlorous acid, which increases the free chlorine in the water, and Cyanuric acid, which acts as a chlorine stabilizer. By using Chloro Maxx 90 chlorine granules in the correct dosage, you can ensure that your pool or spa water is perfectly clean and free of any chlorine smell or irritation.
When To Use Chlorine Pool Shock?
- Weekly Maintenance: Regularly shocking your pool with chlorine is an important part of routine pool maintenance. This helps to get rid of the debris that can accumulate in the pool water over time and helps to keep the water clean and clear.
- Opening and Closing the Pool: It's good practice to shock the pool when opening it for the season or closing it for the winter. It helps to ensure that the water is properly sanitized before swimming season begins or during the off-season when the pool is not in use, preventing the growth of bacteria and algae.
- After Heavy Pool Usage: If the pool has been heavily used, such as during a pool party or after a busy weekend, it's a good idea to shock the pool to help restore the chlorine residual and maintain proper water quality.
- After Rainfall or Heavy Debris: Rainwater and debris can introduce contaminants into the pool water and deplete the chlorine level. After heavy rainfall or when there is a lot of debris in the pool, such as leaves or grass, it is recommended to shock the pool to restore chlorine levels and keep the water clean.
- Algae Treatment: If you notice signs of algae growth in your pool, such as green or cloudy water, slimy walls, or visible algae blooms, then using chlorine pool shock can help to kill and eliminate the algae. This is typically done in combination with brushing the pool walls and floor to remove the dead algae.
Finally, if you have recently added new water to your pool, this can dilute the chlorine levels and make it less effective at killing bacteria and algae.
How Many Shocks Should You Use?
The amount of pool shock you should use depends on the size of your pool and the level of contamination. However, if your pool is heavily contaminated, you may need to use more. It’s important to carefully follow the instructions on the shock product you are using and to wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles when handling it.
Pro Tip: To find out the amount of Chloro Maxx 90 to be used as per your pool size, check out our Pool Volume Calculator to calculate pool volume.
Why Is Chlorine Pool Shock Necessary?
- Kill Bacteria and Algae: Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant that kills bacteria, algae, and other harmful microorganisms that can thrive in pool water. Regular chlorination can help maintain a sufficient chlorine level for day-to-day sanitization, but it may not be enough to eliminate stubborn bacteria and algae growth. Pool shock provides a high concentration of chlorine that can effectively kill these contaminants and keep the water safe for swimmers.
- Oxidize Contaminants: Chlorine pool shock also acts as an oxidizer, which means it helps break down organic and inorganic contaminants that may accumulate in the pool water, such as sweat, urine, sunscreen, and debris. Oxidation helps to prevent water cloudiness, remove unpleasant odours, and improve water clarity.
- Boost Chlorine Residual: Chlorine residual is the remaining chlorine concentration in the pool water after the chlorine has done its sanitizing job. Pool shock helps to boost the chlorine residual quickly, especially after heavy pool usage, rainfall, or other events that may deplete the chlorine level.
- Algae Prevention: Regular pool shock treatment can also help prevent algae growth, which can cause pool water to turn green, cloudy, and unattractive. Algae can be difficult to eliminate once it takes hold in a pool, so regular shock treatment can be a proactive measure to prevent algae outbreaks.
Tip: If your pool is cloudy after shocking, then use Sparkle Maxx - Cloudy pool clarifier.
How To Safely Handle And Apply Pool Shock?
When handling pool shock, it’s important to take safety precautions to avoid injury or damage to your pool. Always wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, and keep the shock product out of reach of children and pets. When applying the shock, make sure to distribute it evenly throughout the pool and avoid adding it directly to the skimmer or near the pool walls. It’s also important to wait the recommended amount of time before swimming in the pool again.
Tips For Maintaining A Healthy And Clean Pool:
In addition to regularly shocking your pool with chlorine, there are other steps you can take to maintain a healthy and clean swimming environment. First, make sure to regularly test the water chemistry and adjust the pH and chlorine levels as needed. It’s also important to regularly clean the pool and skimmer baskets to remove debris and prevent clogs. Finally, consider investing in a pool cover to keep out leaves and other debris when the pool is not in use.
WHERE CAN YOU GET CHLORO MAXX 90 TCCA GRANULES?
1. Chloro Maxx 90 Granules is available on our website, with a special offer of 15% using coupon code POOLMAXX15 at checkout.
2. Available on Amazon & Flipkart as well.
Need Help?
Get in touch with our Pool Maxx Care Specialist.