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Can I Use Regular Clorox Bleach In My Pool

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Disadvantages Of Using Bleach

Using Clorox Bleach in Your Swimming Pool

The major drawback, and it shouldnt be taken lightly, is that if you purchase the wrong household bleach, you could do more harm than good in your pool.

Many household bleach products contain additives such as fragrance or color that can really make your maintenance frustrating if you put it in your pool, so keep that in mind.

And finally they dont have a stabilizer. Any bleach product will break down within hours when exposed to sunlight. So its a must to add stabilizer or cyanuric acid for effective sanitization.

Check out the chart below for a quick breakdown of all the pros and cons of using household bleach.

Pros
Easy to find in store or online Need to add a lot to your pool to raise chlorine

Can You Use Bleach In A Pool

A lot of chemicals are used to keep your pool cleanand safe for everyone. To a lot of people, bleach has never been one of them.There is a reason for it. A narrative from a lot of pool experts says thatbleach is the worst thing you could ever use in your pool. Therefore, a lot ofpeople keep away from ever using a drop of bleach near their pools.

Bleach is safe and the only chemical you should be using in your pool unless cleaning pool tile with baking soda. So yes, you can use bleach to keep your pool water chemistry balanced. For those who are at home daily and constantly use their pools, it will be a good decision to drop the use of all other chemicals and rely on bleach when performed correctly.

How Much Clorox Do We Put In My Pool

The Clorox amount you use will vary due to some factors like your swimming pools size, the level of cyanuric acid, how fast the Clorox bleach is consumed under the temperature, and the amount of contaminants.

To accurately calculate the needed amount of Clorox, you can take advantage of these two apps PoolMath and Pool Pal. Your job is to enter the statistics the apps require, and they can give you an ideal Clorox ppm for different cleaning purposes and spots of the pool.

After utilizing the Clorox, you have to keep track of the cleaning result regularly to make sure that the product is functioning well. There are many test kits that can give you the right measurement, like the Taylor K-2006, XtremepowerUS 71101, and so many more.

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How To Use Bleach In Pool For Algae Removal

Green pools are as a result of algae that accumulate in the pool making it unsafe for swimming. Bleach can be used to destroy the algae and make the pool clear again. Before shocking the pool, you should consider factors such as the pH level and also the alkalinity of the pool.

More bleach is required to increase the level of free chlorine in the pool since that is the main purpose of the bleach.

When the bleach is added to the pool, the chlorine kills all the bacteria since chlorine contains ions that are negatively charged destroy the outer membranes of bacteria. This makes them harmless and prevents them from growing again.

Here are a few steps on how to use bleach in the pool to get rid of algae:

Steps

  • Before anything else, make sure that you check and analyze the pH of the pool. It is recommended that it should be between 7.2 and 7.8. Anything above that might hinder the functioning of chlorine.
  • With a test kit, measure the level of cyanuric acid. The ideal amount is 20 and 50 ppm. To increase its concentration, add a stabilizer to the pool.
  • To get the amount of bleach required in the pool, you will need to find the volume of the pool which is gotten by multiplying the width by the length by the depth. This will help you add the correct amount of bleach.
  • With these easy steps, you are able to clear and sanitize your pool. However, you will need to add bleach to your pool frequently so as to avoid the accumulation of algae again and other microorganisms as well.

    Can I Use Clorox To Chlorinate My Pool

    How to Clean And Sanitize With Clorox Bleach 101.... I ...

    It is possible to use Clorox bleach in a swimming pool. Both chlorine tablets sold specifically for pool use and Clorox bleach contain the same chemical, chlorine. However, it is extremely important to use extra safety precautions when using Clorox.

    For swimming pools, chlorinated water is one of the most popular ways to keep down levels of algae and bacteria. According to clorox.com, chlorine levels in the water should not exceed 3ppm as measured by a pool testing kit. To reach these levels, very little chlorine is needed. For example, if a circular pool has water 3 feet deep and is 15 feet in diameter, only 5 cups are needed to reach the appropriate chlorine levels.

    Although liquid bleach and chlorine tablets both contain the same chemical, it is extremely important to know what other chemicals are contained in both products. Do not ever put chemicals in the pool that are not recommended for use in pools, and do not substitute products such as cleaners with bleach for plain, liquid bleach. Know the type of filtration system in the pool, and be sure to avoid chemicals that can react with other cleaning chemicals and cleaning systems. Always test the pool water with a pool testing kit before entering, and do not enter the pool if chlorine levels are above 3ppm. Wait until the sunlight breaks the chlorine down, and test the water again.

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    Using Bleach To Shock Your Pool

    Bleach contains sodium hypochlorite , but at a lower concentration. The level of sodium hypochlorite in bleach is between 5% and 6%, while chlorine is between 10% to 15%.

    What that means is that you would need twice the amount of bleach as normal chlorine. And to ensure that the bleach doesnt get degraded by the sun, you should add it late in the afternoon.

    Can You Use Bleach In The Pool Instead Of Chlorine

    OF COURSE, you can always make use of bleach in the pool instead of chlorine. The reason for this is because bleach contains similar chemical components as chlorine. And can perform almost the same task in the pool as chlorine.

    The only difference is the concentration of chlorine. Chlorine has between 8% and 12% of calcium hypochlorite chlorine. On the other hand, bleach has between 5.25% and 8.25% of calcium hypochlorite chlorine.

    So, you would need to use more bleach than chlorine. However, aside from this, youre good to go. With the right levels, you will get a similar effect.

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    How Much Bleach Do I Put In My Pool

    If you need to calculate how much bleach or Clorox you need to shock your pool, you will have to use 1/2 gallon of bleach per 10,000 gallons of water to raise the chlorine levels by 5 ppm.

    Is there bleach in pool water?

    Typically liquid chlorine is 10-12% Sodium Hypochlorite where bleach is about 5-6% Sodium Hypochlorite. Adding Sodium Hypochlorite to the pool water makes HOCI which is the disease and organism destroying element in chlorine. So in fact bleach is the same as liquid chlorine only weaker.

    How To Raise And Lower Ph In Swimming Pools With Clorox

    No Chlorine? Use Bleach Instead.

    The pH figure is crucial to balance your swimming pool water. Besides, the pH will indicate the status of the pool water: alkaline or acidic. There are various factors that influence the pH levels like the weather, the environment, the swimmers, so on.

    The low pH situation means that your swimming pool has been acidic. Consequently, the water can be harmful to your skin, your eyes, and even pool equipment under the water.

    On the contrary, when the pH is high, your swimming pool water will become alkaline. This issue will lead to a decrease in the sanitizers effectiveness and also the irritation to eyes and skins.

    The ideal ratio of pH is around 7.2 to 7.6. If the pH is below the average, you can use a pH increaser to improve the situation. On the other hand, to cope with a high pH pool, you can use a pH decreaser.

    For the best result of increasing and decreasing the pH ratio, you should follow the guide on the label of every Clorox product.

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    Test The Ph Of Pool Water

    Test The pH Of Pool Water

    The first step is to test the pH of your pool water with a pH meter and to add sodium bisulfate to lower it if its too high. Keep in mind that if pH is above 7.8, chlorine quickly loses its effectiveness. Ideally, the pH level should be in the range of 7.2 and 7.8. If you dont have it, you can order your pH Meter Here.

    How Often Should I Put Bleach In My Pool

    It will help if you put bleach in your pool as often as your chlorine testing kit shows that the chlorine ppm level is low.

    However, beyond this, you will need bleach when:

    • Your pool has been in use for a very long time without any maintenance
    • You have not used you used your pool in a really long time
    • After throwing a pool party with tons of people swimming in the pool

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    Healthier Alternatives To Chlorine For Swimming Pools

    Chlorine, as a purification agent, has been used for water treatment and swimming pools since the early 1900s. However, there are increasing concerns of this chemicals widespread and the long-term exposure to human health. It is well documented that chlorine, when combined with organic matter, can produce toxic byproducts such as trihalomethanes . The health risk of THMs to swimmers is increased as chlorine levels are higher and the organic load is heavier . Chlorine, even at proper levels, can cause rashes and allergies in some people. Chloramines is known to irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. Those suffering from asthma and bronchitis are at a higher risk.

    Many consumers lack the knowledge and understanding to properly maintain the chemistry of their pool. Confusion on terms such as total chlorine, combined chlorine, and free and available chlorine is common. Understanding the need and timing to sock a pool relates to the previous sentence. Since chlorine cannot stabilize in the water on its own, a dry stabilizer is added to the water to make it resistant to sunlight. Many end users are not using the correct levels of the stabilizer which increases chlorine consumption or could be damaging to the surface of their pool.

    What Really Is In Bleach

    CLOROX BLEACH CONCENTRATED 3.57L  DropIt Delivery

    While everyone accepts that using chlorine in pool isright, the same cannot be said of bleach. But this is ignorance because peopledo not know that bleach is chlorine in liquid form and in a lesserconcentration. You can only agree to that after knowing what really makes upchlorine.

    Bleach has the same chemical composition as chlorine. The difference is that bleach has lesser concentration of sodium hypochlorite of between 5 to 6%, while chlorine has a concentration between 10 and 12%. When added to pool water, sodium hypochlorite turns into HOCL, and this is the chemical that kills any bacteria and any other harmful organisms it comes into contact with. Both chlorine and bleach will release HOCL into the pool and it will do the job of sanitizing your pool. It can, therefore, be concluded that bleach can be used in your pool as a substitute of chlorine.

    Can I Use Bleach in My Pool? Using Bleach to Maintain Pool

    Can I use bleach in my pool? Yes. Bleach, just like chlorine, will release HOCL into the water and keep it clean and safe. IMPORTANT Consult a swimming pool service professional before trying and potentially damaging your pool, and health.

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    Can You Put Bleach In A Pool

    Yes, you can add bleach to your pool. It is one of the best household products that can help in cleaning your pool. What does it do?

    • Bleach acts as sanitizer by destroying all microorganisms in your pool.
    • It disinfects your pool water by killing disease causing organisms.
    • It helps clear your water by getting rid of algae.
    • It is an oxidizing agent it destroys ammonia and swimmer waste.
    • Removes water contaminants including perfumes, lotions, remains of hair products, etc.

    The most common bleach used is liquid chlorine bleach which contains hypochlorous acid molecules. When bleach is added to water, a molecule of the hypochlorous acid becomes a negatively charged ion of hypochlorite ion and destroys all bacteria and disinfects the pool.

    You do not need to use a stabilizer when using bleach to clear up a pool. It just works by itself. Stabilizers are recommended when using pool-grade chlorine. They are however known to affect the effectiveness of chlorine.

    Tips On How To Use Chlorine Or Bleach For Your Pool

    Adding chlorine or bleach to your pool is easy, so long as you know the basics of your pool and follow the instructions. Also, make sure that your pool is clean, as chlorine or bleach wont do its job as well if the pool has soiled surfaces.

    When adding chlorine, it depends on the type you are using. Sprinkle the recommended amount of chlorine to your pool, spreading it around. But before that, you should create the solution, whether you are using liquid or powdered form.

    When using a chlorine mix , wait half an hour before you use it. Also, use the chlorine when there is no direct sunlight. Solutions like these lose strength and power over time, so we recommend you to create a batch just right for one use, or to use it immediately.

    If using bleach, all you need to do is to use 1/8 cup for every 100 gallons of water. Its best to pour it with a skimmer to avoid the harsh chemicals from harming your skin while swimming.

    Popular brand names such as Clorox are recommended to use, as they have the powerful ingredients to disinfect your pool. It wont be as effective as chlorine, but it does a good job.

    Its best to disinfect your pool daily , once every few days. That way, your pool will stay clean and you can swim in it without worry of harm from bacteria and germs lurking in your pool.

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    Can I Put Vinegar In My Pool

    White Vinegar

    Just like you run vinegar through your coffee pot to get rid of calcium buildup, white vinegar can wipe away this eyesore in your pool. Its OK if a little bit of it makes it into the pool water, but if youre concerned, test the water after using vinegar, and adjust any levels if necessary.

    Costs Comparison Of Bleach/clorox Vs Liquid Chlorine Vs Cal

    Using Bleach To Chlorinate Swimming Pool

    As you can see by the table below that bleach, pool liquid chlorine and calcium hypochlorite cost about the same to raise swimming pool chlorine levels. The cost to buy each product may seem different but when you take into account the difference in the chlorine strength of each product they are very similar in cost.

    Bleach/Clorox
    $0.45

    *Based on a 10,000 gallon pool. Chlorine needed will vary from pool to pool.** Costs are based on current prices as of Aug 2021. Costs will vary a lot depending on your location.

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    Which Is Better: Bleach Or Chlorine

    So, which one is better to use for your pool: Chlorine or bleach? There is no specific answer, as they both perform the same job but with different pros and cons. Some people opt to use chlorine for a more powerful and effective disinfectant, while people use bleach for convenience and affordability. Its best to evaluate what you want for your pool.

    It all depends on your preference. While chlorine will directly disinfect your pool of all bacteria, bleach is a more affordable and convenient method to use.

    As long as you use the right chlorine or bleach, then you will be able to reap the benefits a disinfected pool has to offer. Use reputable brands for bleach and chlorine, opting for standard calcium hypochlorite pool chlorine if you choose the latter.

    The next question is: How much chlorine or bleach should you add to your pool, and how do you add it yourself?

    How Do I Add Bleach To The Pool Water

    Most pool stores do not suggest using simple chlorine as a bleaching agent. They want you to use their products for adding bleach to the water. Most pool specialty stores will sell slow dissolving tablets of chlorine that when combined with other ingredients, stabilize the chlorine, so it releases slower, thus making it last longer. Although this may seem like the easier solution, stabilizing bleach greatly reduces the effectiveness it has on killing the microbes that need to be removed from your pool.

    The chemicals that are used in these tablets, such as dichlor, break down very slowly and difficultly and overall you cannot control how much of it is going into the water. Therefore, the new chlorine that is added via tablet will attack the dichlor and immediately be stabilized and will not attack the bacteria that you are trying to eliminate.

    The tablet is rendered effectively useless, and in a few weeks, the result will be a cloudy pool. More than likely, you will be stuck in a situation where the pool store will sell you additional expensive products that will not fix your problem. This is a costly mistake.

    Do not forget, however, when you add liquid bleach to a pool, you still have to add a small amount of stabilizer, so the sunlight doesnt eliminate the bleach molecules immediately. This step should not be too difficult since you are controlling the amount of stabilizer you should be able to prevent over stabilization.

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