Whether you’re a first-time pool owner or a seasoned one, you may be wondering how to shock a pool. Your first concern could be, “What is pool shock?” Shocking your pool on a regular basis can help prevent algae and germs from growing in it. It also keeps the water fresh and smelling good.
This article will walk you through the process of shocking a pool and why it’s necessary. You’ll also learn about various types of pool chlorine and who should you call in keeping your pool clean and safe.
What Pool Shock Is and How Does it Work?
Pool shock is the process of adding chlorine or other sanitizing chemicals to your pool in order to break down chloramines (combined chlorine), quickly raise your chlorine level, and eliminate algae, bacteria, or other harmful microorganisms. The objective is to rapidly raise the chlorine level in the water, so it’s critical to follow the instructions carefully.
Types of chlorine
Free chlorine (FC) is merely that: free. It interacts freely with other chemicals, algae, bacteria, and the like. We adore free chlorine since it destroys these potentially harmful elements when they come into contact with it, typically ending their lives and off-gassing them into the air. After doing its duty, free chlorine continues on with its carefree “lifestyle” in search of the next item to interact with.
When chlorine is combined with ammonia or nitrogen, it forms combined chlorine (CC). Because it is bound up in this mixed condition, it no longer has the ability to interact with other substances in the water and can no longer be used as a sanitizer. This chlorine molecule is programmed to stay in this state unless free chlorine or some other oxidizer is added.
Total chlorine (TC) is a mixture of free and combined chlorine.
Step by Step Guide to Shocking a Pool
- Test the ph level or the measure of the water’s acidity or alkalinity. You’ll need to make sure the chlorine is between 3-5ppm (parts per million). To assess the free chlorine and total chlorine levels in your water, use pool test kits. Subtract the FC from the TC to determine your pool’s CC. This will show you how much chlorine you’ll need to add to the pool.
- Determine the quantity of shock you’ll need to combine. Consult the amount listed on the package of the shock chemical you intend to use.
- You may put Liquid pool shock or some granular pool shock into your swimming pool right away, but most kinds must be combined with water before usage. If necessary, prepare the granular pool shock in advance by combining it with water. This will save you time and help prevent calculation mistake.
- Make sure the pool pump is running.
- Pour the mixture into the water, circling the pool’s perimeter.
- Let the pump run for at least six hours.
- Check the chlorine levels again to ensure that they are correct.
- Avoid using the pool right away. Wait for the free chlorine levels to drop to 1 to 3 ppm before using it.
- When mixing pool chemicals, it is important to use gloves and safety glasses.l
The Benefits of Using Pool Shock
Levels of chlorine vary based on the number of bathers and pollutants in the water. Pool chlorine is designed to destroy and sanitize bacteria, yet it will also attach to ammonia and nitrates in the water. Bacteria like this are typically produced by waste, bird droppings, sunscreen lotions, and other items. Only by shocking the pool can the bound chlorine (chloramines) be released.
Shocking releases the combined chlorine and off-gasses contaminants, resulting in an increase in free chlorine in your pool or spa. The choice of whether to use a chlorinated or non-chlorinated shock depends on the quantity of total chlorine in your pool or spa. If you have a lot of total chlorine, you’ll choose a non-chlorine shock, if you have little chlorine, you’ll use a chlorinated shock.
If you find a pool with an overpowering chlorine odor, there’s a good chance it’s combined chlorine. Pool shocking will free up effective chlorine and eliminate this smell.
When to Shock a Pool?
Normally, you’ll need to raise free chlorine ten times your combined chlorine level in order to reach what’s known as “breakpoint.” As a result, it’s preferable to deal with combined chlorine while it’s still small. The process for hitting breakpoint might be a little difficult, so we advise you to consult with your pool expert.
The best opportunity to shock your pool is at night after everyone has gone home. Because the sun will not be boiling away the chlorine in the evening, and because shocking will raise the chlorine level to a point that may be uncomfortable for the skin and eyes.
Contact Briphen for All your Pool Maintenance Needs!
Briphen Pool Cleaning & Pest Control is a leading provider of expert pool maintenance, including swimming pool shock treatment. Our team has been keeping pools clean and clear for many years. We provide customers with high-quality products at an affordable price that will keep your pool looking crystal clear year-round. Whether you are new to maintaining your own pool or want to be proactive about the care, Briphen has everything you need! For more information about our services, or to schedule a free consultation, please contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you!
Briphen Pool Cleaning & Pest Control
2750 South Hardy Drive, Suite 1A, Tempe, AZ 85282
(480) 741-2798
