Under normal conditions, chlorine level between 2 – 4 ppm is desirable and 3 ppm is ideal. But shock spikes up the chlorine level to 10 ppm or more. A chlorine level of even 25 ppm, during shock, is not unusual.
When should shock chlorination be used?
Shock chlorination is recommended: upon completion of a new well or when an unused well is returned to service if annual water test results indicate the presence of bacteria if a well system is opened for any installation, repair or maintenance
What was the chlorine level before the shock?
Before the shock, the chemistry measured fine -- 3 ppm chlorine, 7.2 pH, 140 ppm total alkalinity. 48 hours after adding the shock, the chlorine level is off the scale of my test kit. The color is orange, not yellow. I estimate it's at least 20 ppm chlorine. Why did the chlorine go up so high?
What is shock chlorine and how does it work?
Shock chlorine, also known as rapid chlorine, restores optimal disinfection of your pool in a minimal amount of time. It will also be very useful at the opening of the season or when the pool turns green. Why Is It Called “Shock” Chlorine?
How long after shock and algaecide can I add chlorine?
It is best to wait at least 24 hours after adding the algaecide after shock. This is enough time for the algaecide to be fully dissipated and become effective. More importantly the chlorine level would have dropped to below 4 ppm. Why is my Pool Still Green After Shock and Algaecide?
Why is chlorine level low after shocking?
That means that oxidation levels have increased to a point where chlorine is being consumed faster than it can be put into the water by either shocking or normal applications such as a salt chlorinator. The cause of this could be due to contamination, low pH or low chlorine stabiliser levels.
How much does 1lb of shock raise chlorine?
One pound of In The Swim Pool Shock will raise free chlorine levels in a clean and balanced pool to 9 ppm, per 10,000 gallons of pool water.
Will shock raise my chlorine level?
Despite how it sounds shocking a pool has nothing to do with electricity or with revealing something completely unexpected. Shocking is the process of adding chemicals (usually chlorine) to your pool to: break apart chloramines, also known as combined chlorine. quickly raise your chlorine level.
How long does it take for pool to clear after shock?
A pool filter should be run for a minimum of 6 hours after shocking a swimming pool. This is to allow the filter to clean the water and give the shock enough time to fully mix with the pool water. Running the filter after shocking for 24 hours to 7 days is necessary if the pool has a large amount of algae.
Can you put too much shock in a pool?
Can you put too much shock in a pool? SKIMMER NOTES: It's unlikely but it could happen. It would take a lot of shock to really make the water unsafe for swimming. The best way to make sure you're safe to swim is to test your pool water and make sure free chlorine levels are between 1-4ppm for healthy swimming.
Does Shocking a pool lower pH?
Pool shock. Shocking your pool is important, but if you're using cal-hypo (calcium hypochlorite), it can raise your pool's pH levels. Don't stop shocking your pool, but do test all your chemistry levels consistently, especially after shocking.
What is the minimum recommended chlorine level?
Chlorine is added to the water to kill germs. But it does not work right away. If used properly, free chlorine* can kill most germs within a few minutes. CDC recommends pH 7.2–7.8 and a free chlorine concentration of at least 1 ppm in pools and at least 3 ppm in hot tubs/spas.
How do I raise the free chlorine level in my pool?
Raising pool chlorine can be much easier than trying to lower chlorine levels. Simply adding chlorine in the form of chlorine tablets, granular chlorine, liquid shock or powder shock will increase the total amount of chlorine within the pool.
Should you shock your pool every week?
How Often Should I Shock My Pool? Shocking your pool regularly will help to keep the water clean and free of contaminants. You should aim to shock your pool about once a week, with the additional shock after heavy use. Some tell-tale signs that your pool needs to be shocked are cloudy, foamy, green, or odourous water.
How long does chlorine shock take to work?
Heavy shocking with granular chlorine will generally require 24-48 hours before the chlorine level has dropped to safe swimming levels (below 5 ppm). Lithium and Non-Chlorine shock labels typically allow immediate swimming, but check the package label, to be sure.
Can you use shock and chlorine together?
While shocking and adding algaecide is effective in getting rid of algae, it should not be done together. This is because when you mix chlorine and algaecide together, it renders both of them useless. Hence, you should first shock the pool and wait for the chlorine levels to fall below 5 PPM.
Can you swim 12 hours after shocking pool?
After Shocking Your Pool It is safe to swim once your chlorine levels are around 5 ppm or after 24 hours. It is always best to test first!
When to use liquid chlorine?
The liquid chlorine can also be applied when the free chlorine Level Goes Below 3 ppm. If you realize that the free chlorine level is less than 3 ppm, then the time is right to shock your pool. Application of the liquid chlorine can also take place after heavy rains and during prolonged seasons of hot weather.
Why do saltwater pools use chlorine?
The reason for this is not far-fetched. Saltwater pools use chlorine generators to produce a chlorine compound, which is almost like the chlorine present in shock treatments.
How to treat algae in pool?
Tips To Combat Algae In Your Pool 1 Constantly use the doses of medicine appropriately and at the right time for maximum effectiveness; if not, all your efforts will be wasted. 2 Brush the whole pool, especially areas with visible signs of algae. The brushing process may be done only on the first day of treatment. 3 Regularly look into the filter pressure to clean as the need may arise.
What distinguishes chlorine from bleach?
What distinguishes the liquid chlorine and bleach, however, is the strength of their concentration levels. Whenever there is the liquid chlorine vs. bleach discussion, it is also worth noting that both contain the “Sodium Hypochlorite,” which puts them in the same bracket regarding water purification.
Can you shock a pool with liquid chlorine?
Definitely, the liquid chlorine can clear a green pool, but the amount of shock needed to do that depends on the pool’s level of dirtiness. The process will be done for several days before the water is clean enough. However, have it at the back of your mind that you cannot over shock a pool.
Is bleach stronger than chlorine?
Bleach is made of sodium hypochlorite, which is essentially chlorine in its liquid form. Relatively stronger and proves to be more effective. Not as strong as liquid chlorine and requires having more on-demand. Contains a stabilizer, thus holds up a bit longer.
Is 65 CYA good for a pool?
For hot and sunny temperatures, the 65 CYA is moderate enough. Just ensure you add enough liquid chlorine to keep the FC over the minimum level for your CYA level pending the time you can add more. You can make use of the pool calculator too.
What is shock chlorine?
A shock chlorine supplement differs substantially from the regular chlorine chemicals that you will use in day-to-day pool maintenance, so you must ensure you are buying the right product. Shock products are commonly labelled as such, but the most common version is a chemical known as Sodium Hypochlorite.
How does shock treatment work?
Shock treatments work quickly to dramatically raise the water’s chlorine level, allowing it to clean the pool effectively. Once you’re back on top of your pool’s cleanliness, you can enable chlorine levels to return to their normal level.
What is the best way to maintain a swimming pool?
Alongside using sanitisers such as chlorine, a crucial part of swimming pool maintenance is the use of shock treatments . These treatments can be beneficial for providing quick and effective balancing for your pool, especially during heavy use. However, the nature of these chemicals means that you must know how to use them safely and effectively.
How to get a pool clean?
If your pool gets to this stage, the most effective way of getting it clean is by using a shock treatment. When a lot of algae develops in the pool, you’ll need more chlorine than usual to combat the unwelcome visitors. Shock treatments work quickly to dramatically raise the water’s chlorine level, allowing it to clean the pool effectively.
What is the role of chemicals in a pool?
Chemicals play a considerable role in keeping your swimming pool clean, healthy and safe. A routine will help to keep your pool’s chemical balance in check, but there will likely come a time when more robust measures are required. Alongside using sanitisers such as chlorine, a crucial part of swimming pool maintenance is the use of shock treatments.
How does chlorine work?
Chlorine works by attaching itself to algae and other dirt. This process kills the algae, but also creates something known as ‘combined chlorine’ which can build up over time. Raising the chlorine level through shocking is a way to remove combined chlorine from the pool, further helping to keep your pool clean.
What is shock in a pool?
What is Shock? As the name suggests, shock usually refers to chemical products designed to create an instant and substantial impact in any swimming pool or hot tub. In almost all cases, shock relates to a concentrated chlorine supplement, but it can also refer to chlorine-free alternatives that fulfil a similar task.
When is shock chlorination recommended?
Shock chlorination is recommended: upon completion of a new well or when an unused well is returned to service. if annual water test results indicate the presence of bacteria. if a well system is opened for any installation, repair or maintenance.
What is shock chlorination?
Shock chlorination is the process by which home water systems such as wells, springs, and cisterns are disinfected using household liquid bleach (or chlorine). Shock chlorination is the most widely recommended means of treating bacterial contamination in home water systems.
How long does chlorine kill bacteria?
Chlorine should have enough contact time to kill the bacteria. Make sure that no one in your home uses the water for any purpose during the 12 to 24 hour treatment. Preventing electric shock from the water pump. Before removing the well cap or cover, turn the pump circuit breaker off.
How to get rid of chlorine smell in well water?
Using the hose, wash down the interior of the well casing for about 15 minutes and close the outdoor faucet. CIRCULATE: Allow the solution to circulate throughout the system.
How long after shock chlorination can you drink water?
Wait one to two weeks after shock chlorinating the water supply system to retest for total coliform and E. coli bacteria. Follow sample collection instructions carefully. If the test results show the absence of coliform bacteria, the water is safe to drink.
What to wear when adding chlorine to water?
Because of the volatile and corrosive nature of the concentrated chlorine solution, it is important to wear appropriate clothing, including goggles, a protective apron, and rubber gloves and boots. Mix and add chlorine solution in a well-ventilated area. High chlorine levels in water after shock chlorination.
What to wear when chlorinating water?
Wear waterproof rubber boots. Protecting components of water supply and treatment devices. Shock chlorinating a water supply system can potentially damage components such as pressure tanks, some filters and filter media, and other treatment devices.
What is breakpoint chlorine?
Breakpoint chlorination is the level of free chlorine that’s required to destroy the combined chlorine in the water. Due to its higher percentage of free chlorine, shock can take care of all the pollutants that the residual chlorine no longer can handle.
What is the difference between unstabilized and stabilized chlorine?
Unstabilized chlorine is chlorine in its purest state, whereas stabilized chlorine contains cyanuric acid (CYA). CYA, also called pool stabilizer, acts as a sunblock to protect the chlorine from the sun’s UV light, which will quickly destroy it if there’s no protectant.
What is unstabilized chlorine?
Sodium hypochlorite is a liquid form of chlorine that can be directly added to your pool skimmer. It won’t raise the pool’s pH level, and at 10-12% available chlorine, it’s pre-diluted for a safe-to-use level.
What is chlorine in a pool?
Pool chlorine is a sanitizer and oxidizer that keeps your pool water free from germs, bacteria, viruses, and organic pollutants. Breaking it down, chlorine releases two chemicals into the water: hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hypochlorite ion (OCl-). They attack the enzymes and structures inside the cells of pollutants, destroying them.
How does chlorine work in a pool?
It works by oxidizing organic compounds in the water. By focusing on them, it allows the residual free chlorine in the pool to focus strictly on sanitizing the water. Chlorine Vs Shock: The Comparison. When comparing pool chlorine vs shock, there are certain characteristics they have in common.
Is chlorine a residual cleaner?
Chlorine is a residual cleaner: When you add chlorine tablets to your pool, they’re slow-releasing, giving your water a consistent sanitizer over the duration of a few days. Chlorinated shock is quick-releasing, emptying a highly concentrated dose of chlorine into the water for rapid sanitization.
Does chlorine kill algae?
How They’re Similar. Both kill bacteria: Whether its residual chlorine or chlorinated shock, bacteria doesn’t stand a chance at surviving when sufficient levels of chlorine are present in the water. Both kill algae: Algae blooms in pools can be a problem, with mustard algae and black algae being the most common types.
Does cal hypo bleach increase pH?
Both Cal-Hypo and bleach / chlorinating liquid will increase pH (and TA a little) temporarily, but as the chlorine gets used up, this is an acidic process and the pH (and TA a little) will come back down. There may be more extra base in some Cal-Hypo brands, but mostly it doesn't look like a lot.
Does Cal Hypo increase chlorine?
Cal-Hypo is calcium hypochlorite and is very similar to sodium hypochlorite which is bleach or chlorinating liquid except that Cal-Hypo contains calcium so will increase Calcium Hardness (CH). For every 1 ppm Free Chlorine (FC) added by Cal-Hypo, you also increase CH by 0.7 ppm.#N#Both Cal-Hypo and bleach / chlorinating liquid will increase pH (and TA a little) temporarily, but as the chlorine gets used up, this is an acidic process and the pH (and TA a little) will come back down. There may be more extra base in some Cal-Hypo brands, but mostly it doesn't look like a lot. So really, the main thing to watch when using Cal-Hypo is that in increases CH. Also, note that it doesn't dissolve quickly so should be pre-dissolved before adding it to the pool, especially a vinyl pool, or else it will settle on the bottom and produce high chlorine levels locally until it fully dissolves (above-ground pools also tend to have poor circulation at depths because they usually don't have a floor drain).
When shock dosing chlorine granules should be dissolved in warm water before dispersed around the
When shock dosing the chlorine granules should be dissolved in warm water before dispersed around the pool. Ensure the pump is circulating so the chlorine is evenly distributed around the pool . Concentrated quantities of chlorine will cause the liner to bleach.
What does a chlorine shock do to a pool?
The short term raise in chlorine will help break down any organic waste such as bacteria and other contaminants such as algae, slime and loss of water clarity or quality. For a guide on how to shock dose your pool, you can refer to the guide at the end of this article where you will find information appropriate to the size ...
What are the things that deplete chlorine in a pool?
They play an important role in maintaining a clean, healthy swimming environment. Natural debris such as leaves and other solids that enter your pool such as sweat, sunscreen, urine, algae and beauty products will deplete the chlorine levels.
What is the recommended chlorine level for an outdoor pool?
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.
Why do you shock dosing a pool?
It will ensure a clean, healthy swimming pool by preventing and eradicating issues such as bacteria and algae growth.
How often should I shock my pool?
If the pool is heavily used it’s highly recommended to shock dose your pool every week. If you do not regularly use your pool than shock dosing at least once every two weeks will maintain a healthy water environment. Pool owners should ensure they have a maintenance schedule, this will help to regulate the cleanliness and correct chemical levels ...
How effective is chlorine in a pool?
When a pH level reads 7.2, chlorine is 66% effective, but with a pH level of 7.8 the chlorine will only be 22% effective. To redeem this you will need to remove the stabiliser chemical from the pool, which is, in this case, is the chlorine. To remove the algae and clean your pool you will need to:
Why add chlorine to salt water?
Instead, chlorine is added to maintain shock level until testing shows that the process is complete . If you have a salt water chlorine generator, chlorine tablet dispenser, injection pump, or Liquidator, you will still need to use another chlorine source for SLAMing.
How to kill algae in a slam?
To kill algae or lower CC, you need to put in lots of chlorine all at once. The best solution to this is simply shut off the SWG, Liquidator, injection pump, etc. and use liquid chlorine only for the duration of the SLAM.
Can you use chlorine in a pool?
You can use the The Chlorine/CYA Chart at Pool School to find the correct FC shock level for your CYA level. It is best to use bleach or liquid chlorine when SLAMing. You will want to have enough on hand to raise the FC level to shock level at least a couple of times. It is especially important to avoid using dichlor when SLAMing, ...
Do you Add Algaecide Before or After Shock?
You do not need to wait for your pool to go green before you Shock it. In fact, you should Shock your pool every week. Under no circumstances should you wait longer than two weeks. But what about Algaecide? Do you add Algaecide Before Or After Shock?
How Long Should you Run your Pool After Adding Algaecide?
Under normal conditions, chlorine level between 2 – 4 ppm is desirable and 3 ppm is ideal.
How Soon After Shock & Algaecide Can You Swim?
You add algaecide after shock, only when the chlorine level has dropped to 5 ppm. This is OK for adding algaecide but still a bit high for swimming. You will get itchy skin and burning eyes.
Why is my Pool Still Green After Shock and Algaecide?
You have shocked your pool. The chlorine levels are on target. You have added algaecide. But the pool is still green. In fact it is looking greener than before the shock!
Recommended Swimming Pool Chemicals
Kem-Tek Pool & Spa Concentrated Algaecide is very effective for prevention of algae and also helps to clarify cloudy pool water. It has a non-foaming formula and can be used in all types of pools. Order from Amazon using the link below:
How long should you wait before adding chlorine to a pool?
Note that when adding chlorine to your pool, their levels don’t immediately return to normal so you have to wait for close to 24 hours before adding the algaecide.
What is the best algaecide for a green pool?
The best algaecide to use for a green algae pool is the copper-based algaecide because of its long-lasting control over such organisms. To effectively rid the pool of such organisms add 4 fl. Oz. per 10000 gallons when initially adding it to your pool. You should also add 2 fl. Oz. per 10000 gallons every week during your pool maintenance.
How long does it take for algaecide to work?
Add your algaecide to the pool and monitor it for five to seven days for the cleaning process to be completed.
What is the best way to stop algae growth?
Quat algaecide is another good chemical that stops algae growth. They are preferable to copper-based chemicals because they’re safer to use. They don’t cause stain but they can disrupt your filter by causing foaming and they don’t prevent algae growth.
How effective is algaecide?
Algaecides works best after spraying chlorine mixture around the pool as the sanitizer makes them more effective. Using the right type of algaecide is essential to killing off the algae. The most effective algaecide may not be the same for everyone so there’s no specific one to choose from.
How to kill algae in pool?
Using the right type of algaecide is essential to killing off the algae. The most effective algaecide may not be the same for everyone so there’s no specific one to choose from. The best type of algaecide to use depends heavily on your pool size, current needs, and budget, but there are two types of recommended algaecide to choose from namely: 1 Copper-based algaecides 2 Quat algaecides
What is algaecide used for?
Algaecide for pools are simply chemicals that are used to kill algae or stop the growth of algae in your pools. These chemical functions by stopping the life process of the algae hence cutting off its photosynthesis process which dries the cell walls in the algae.