Your Pool Water Is Cloudy
Cloudy pool water is an important symptom to treat as it can be a breeding ground for dangerous bacteria, it can also damage your pool and circulation system.
It is important to be aware of any signs of cloudy water as it can quickly escalate, it can even appear overnight. This can be due to any issues with the sanitising chemicals, the pool’s circulation system, the pool’s water chemistry and algae.
Chlorine Or Bromine Chemical Levels
Outdoor pools require a reading of 3-5ppm. If a swimming pools chlorine or bromine levels are not maintained and tested regularly this can entail insufficient sanitisation, leading to bacteria and algae growth.
A solution to this particular issue is to shock dose the pool. We recommend considering the use of chlorine tablets or a chemical dispenser. Chemical dispensers will help to ensure a constant supply of chlorine.
How Much Shock Do I Need To Shock My Pool
A simple ratio and a standard rule of thumb to follow when you shock your pool is to dissolve one pound of either calcium hypochlorite or sodium dichlor for every 10,000 gallons of pool water. If you are using sodium hypochlorite, i.e., liquid chlorine, the ratio comes out to 10 ounces for every 10,000 gallons of pool water.
If you are not sure how many gallons are in your pool, here is an easy formula:
Length of your pool x width x depth x 7.5 = volume in gallons
You can also use the Pool Volume Calculator that is built into the Pool Calculator App, available on the web, or as a Native App on iOS or Android
Another standard measurement point for shocking a pool is to measure the chlorine by parts per million . To successfully shock a pool, especially one with algae growth, youll need to bring the chlorine level to at least 30ppm.
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Adding Shock Directly Into The Pool Water
The chemical we call pool shock is basically concentrated chlorine. At high strength, chlorine can bleach anything that enters your pool. For example, it can turn black clothes pink and white clothes yellow if the concentration is too high.
Dont worryyou cant overshock your pool. But beyond fashion faux pas, adding shock directly to the pool water if you have a vinyl liner can be a disaster. The shock granules will sink the bottom and bleach out your liner. The bleached area becomes brittle and frail, causing leaks.
Dark Green Pool Water
If you have dark green pool water, you should look to follow the above steps, but with a slightly higher dose of acid and chlorine. Adding, for example, 2 to 3 litres of acid over a space of 48 hours and adding 2 to 3 cups of granulated chlorine. Also, darker green water may also be a cause of stagnant debris sitting on the bottom of the pool which needs to be cleaned out before you dose it. Be sure that this has all been scooped up using a leaf shovel, followed by being manually vacuumed out of the pool using a vacuum head, an appropriate length hose for your pool and a telepole.
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When Pool Water Temperature Rises
Bacteria and other organisms such as algae thrive in warm water. In addition, the amount of free chlorine decreases with rising temperatures.
Most pools are kept at a comfortable level of 86-88 °F. The temperature should be lowered to a range of 78-84 °F if there are a lot of swimmers or if the pool is used for athletic activities. You can use a pool thermometer to measure water temperature.
If the temperature rises above the recommended levels, you should shock your pool.
Every Mistake Holds A Lesson For Better Pool Care
Nobodys perfect. From poor water chemistry to letting your Uncle Hank test his experimental beer-powered algae extractor, we all make pool maintenance mistakes.
But every goof is a new lesson on improving your pool care game. And if you take the time to learn from the mistakes of others, youll find youre spending less time maintaining your pool, and more time enjoying it.
Happy Swimming!
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How Often Should You Shock Your Swimming Pool
Many pool owners new and old wonder how often their pool needs shocking. To shock your pool is by far the best way to remove algae from you pool as well as any other organic matter keeping your pool clean all season long. The downside to shocking is that you restrict the time allowed in the pool as the chlorine levels will be too high to swim in and you need to wait until the chlorine levels reduce to a safe level before it is safe to swim.
So, how often should you shock your pool? The simple answer is as often as it needs it. We will take a deeper dive into this subject below.
When The Pool Is Used Heavily Or Frequently
Chlorine levels reduce more quickly when many swimmers use a pool on a consistent basis. You should measure levels of free chlorine and chloramine after heavy swimming, especially in commercial or public pools, and shock the pool as required.
To find out what amount of free chlorine or any other chemical to add to a pool, I use this pool calculator to help me find the correct amount of chlorine to add. All you have to do is enter your chemical and pH readings.
Controlling the chlorine levels in saltwater pools is easier. All you need to do is raise the saltwater chlorine generator to boost free chlorine prior to and after heavy usage.
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First Step: Prepare Pool Water For Shocking And Testing
Why is my pool still green after adding chlorine, and is it safe to swim in a pool with algae? Not necessarily. Issues such as bacterial infections and skin issues can occur if you swim in water with algae.
Algae will remain in your pool after shock if youve had insufficient chlorine and an overabundance of metal elements in the pool water. Therefore, to start the cleaning process. Remove all the debris from the pool with a leaf net and then let the smaller dirt fragments settle.
How To Use Pool Shock
It doesnt matter whether youre a new pool owner or an old hand, shocking your swimming pool might seem a little scary. Thats okayhandling such a high volume of chemicals can make anyone feel jittery. It gets easier with practice and knowledge.
Once you learn what pool shock is, understand why its one of the most important chemicals to use, and learn how to shock a pool, the whole process will start to feel pretty routine. Thats good, because shocking your pool on a regular basis is a simple way to prevent stray algae and bacteria from taking root in your water. It also helps keep your pool smelling well, hopefully like nothing at all.
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Are There Certain Times My Pool Needs An Extra Shock
Maybe. If you host pool parties or swim in large groups, the pH in the water could change. You may need to shock your pool after these events to regulate chlorine levels.
Similarly, if your city experiences intense weather patterns, it could cause additional dirt and debris to enter your pool. After cleaning the debris from your pool, shocking the water will regulate chlorine levels once more.
How Can I Tell If My Pool Needs Shock
As a rule of thumb, you should shock your pool every week, even if you dont think that it needs it. But, there are several instances when you should certainly shock your pool:
Shock your pool when you open it for the season to kill any bacteria or algae.
Shock your pool after heavy use or a party.
Shock your pool when its extremely hot and sunny. When the weather is too hot bacteria can grow and your chlorine level may lower.
Shock your pool after heavy rain because too much rain can increase pH levels and send contaminants into your pool.
Shock your pool if your smell chlorine or if swimmers eyes become irritated. If this happens it could mean that water has a build-up of chloramines. This is a clear indicator that your pool needs to be shocked.
Shock your pool when you close it. Although youll need to shock it again when you re-open your pool, its always a good idea to close your pool with clean water.
Some people also recommend that you shock your pool anytime the pH level is between 7.2 and 7.4,
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How Do You Shock Your Pool
When the filter is running, either pour or sprinkle the shock around the perimeter of your pool. Be sure that nothing sprinkles on you because it will bleach your clothing.
Its recommended to avoid swimming in your pool 24-48 hours after you shock your pool. This will allow the chemicals to run through the water and not harm your skin or eyes. Always read the packaging on your pool shock to check the recommendations.
Typically You Will Only Have To Shock When Your Cc Level Is Higher Than5
How often to shock pool when green. Always make sure that the filter system is running while shocking the pool. This is a great way to keep your chlorine level up and prevent algae growth. Algae feeds off high ph.
Shock treat with 3 cups of hth granular or a sachet of hth shock it, following the instructions on the pack. How often do you need to shock your pool? Other than that, you will not need to shock your pool, unless you have some sort of foreign object (i.e.
To remove green pool algae: When youre putting your swimming pool away for the winter, its always a good idea to shock your swimming pool first by dumping 1/2 cup of chlorine granules into the skimmer box and. Each one requires a different amount of shock to be defeated, with black algae being the strongest.
Run the pump as much as possible. This easy to follow video will tell you exactly how to shock your pool and go from green to blue in 24 hou. Youll need to lower your ph using hydrochloric acid.
If your pool is green but chlorine is high, its possible that you arent running the pools filter often enough or. To find out how much shock your pool needs, carefully follow the product measurement instructions. If you have a lot of people over in your pool or have a party, you may want to shock your pool more frequently.
This is a great way to keep your chlorine level up and prevent algae growth. Always wait at least 24 hours after shocking your pool before going for a swim. Start with around 1l to 2l.
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Your Water Temperature Soared
While pool heaters allow you to increase the water temperature to your preference, warm water eats up free chlorine like a fat kid inhales cupcakes. In addition, microorganisms and bacteria such as algae flourish in warm water.
A comfortable temperature is between 86 and 88°F. If under heavy usage, the pool temperature should be lowered to 78 to 84°F. Water temperature can also soar if your pool is in the sun all day, and you have a pool finish like stone, which naturally draws in heat.
So Can You Over Shock Your Pool
Not really. While there are some side effects to adding too much chlorine, including prolonged cloudiness or green hair, you cant really over shock the water. Eventually, the chlorine and water will find equilibrium.
If youre nervous youve added too much shock, keep your pump running and avoid swimming for a few days. Let the water settle, and test it twice a day in the morning and night until the reading gives you the green light to swim.
Pool owners can rest assured that adding too much or too little shock isnt a deal-breaker. At most, you may have to wait or treat the pool again. If you follow the instructions on your shock packaging and test water before use, you should be just fine.
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Spread The Pool Shock
Before spreading, you should make sure that the pump and filter are running or the pool is on. When it is, spread the mixture all over the pool. Let it run for eight hours or overnight.
Alternatively, there are also pool shock brands where you can directly spread it. Apply it at the deepest part of the pool and then use a brush to disperse the powder that has settled at the bottom.
Note: If you have vinyl liner or pool, use the bucket or pre-dissolved pool shock method.
How Long Do You Have To Wait To Swim After You Shock A Pool
Before you can swim in the pool, wait for the amount of time recommended on the packageusually at least eight hours for chlorine-based shock treatments. You only have to wait as little as 15 minutes if you use non-chlorinated shock treatments.
To be safe, it’s best to measure the amount of free chlorine in your pool to make sure it is 3 ppm or slightly less before swimming. It is dangerous to swim in a pool with high chlorine concentration. If necessary, you can use chlorine reduction reagents.
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Sundance Spas Of Edmonton
For more information about owning and caring for your pool, visit our blog and online resource centre today. At Sundance Spas of Edmonton, we are committed to helping you make the most of your home and backyard space. Visit our showroom for some of the best pool and hot tub pricing around, along with an incredible selection of swimming pools, new hot tubs, used hot tubs, and accessories such as pool and hot tub covers.
How Long I Have To Wait To Let My Kids Go In To The Water After The Water Treatment And How Much Chlorine Size Taps And Shock Plus Do I Have To Put In My Pool Tha Is Size 12 By 30
Answer:
How long to wait after a treatment depends on the chemicals you are adding. Typically, you will want to wait for the water to turn over one full time , which typically takes 8 to 12 hours. A pool shock is a different story, you should wait for the level to come down to a safe, swimable level below 5.0 ppm.Also, the tabs and shock required for your pool are dependent on the type of chlorine and shock. There are several different types of chlorine, so always follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for dosage instructions.
Did you find this answer helpful? View more safety and health FAQs here.
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How Shocking Your Pool Works
Dont Be Shocked You Made It
Now you know why, when, and how to shock a pool. There might be a little math involved, but arent occasional brain teasers good for your memory anyway? Were pretty sure thats true, but we may have forgotten.
Anyway, however you feel about the math, regularly using pool shock can prevent more work in the long run. Its one of the easiest ways to keep bacteria at bay, your water clear, and your pool time fun.
Happy Swimming!
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How To Shock Your Pool
To shock your pool, just pour the diluted mixture around the circumference of the pool. If youre using a granular powder, just sprinkle the powder around the perimeter of your pool.
Here are some things to consider during and after shocking your pool:
- Avoid direct contact with the substance as it causes irritation and bleaches your clothing. But thats only the tip of the iceberg.
- You must refrain from pool entry for a day or two after the operation. Since the chemicals present in the product will harm your skin and irritate the eyes.
- You should always read the instructions before you utilize your packet of shock.
Arriving at the end of the article, I hope you were able to grasp the concept of How Often Should I Shock My Pool? Pool shock is a substantial component of keeping your pool clean and safe. You will have to put in the effort and go through this excruciating process with patience.But the results will be worth the effort. If youve reached the end of the article, then I would like to thank you for making it this far. Hope you have an amazing day ahead!
Why Shock A Pool
Chlorine levels can fluctuate depending on the bather load and contaminants in the water. Pool chlorine is made to attack and sanitize bacteria so the pool is safe to swim, but will also bound to ammonias and nitrates in water. This type of bacteria comes from debris, bird droppings, sunscreen lotions, etc. The only way to release the bound is by shocking the pool.
To break up the bound chlorine, you will need to reach breakpoint chlorination. This is done by raising the chlorine up to a very high level for a period of time before dropping it down. Breakpoint chlorination will ensure that you are burning off all the contaminants and turning the combined chlorine back in to an effective sanitizer. We typically recommend using a calcium hypochlorite shock when super chlorinating a pool. Just keep in mind that this type of pool shock has a small amount of calcium and will cloud the water for up to 12-24 hours in certain situations. Leslie’s Power Powder Pro is ideal for helping pool owners reach breakpoint chlorination.
Pro Tip: If you can “smell chlorine,” this indicates that the chlorine is combined with ammonias and no longer sanitizing the water. Shocking the water will free up effective chlorine and eliminate this smell.
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