shocking a saltwater pool**
🚨 what you need to know
After converting your pool into a saltwater system, it's easy to forget about the daily care it requires. However, there are times when your pool may need a good shocking to stay clean and safe for swimmers. Whether you have a small child experiencing the joys of their first swimming pool or a large party with a crowd, shocking your saltwater pool is often necessary to prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria and other contaminants.
🧪 why shock a pool?
saltwater pools use the natural reaction between table salt and water to generate chlorine, which is then used to disinfect the water. While this self-cleansing process is effective at keeping the water clean, it doesn't entirely remove all traces of chemicals, such as chlorine, which can eventually find their way back into the pool. Shocking your pool helps to neutralize these chemicals and remove any bacteria or other contaminants that may have accumulated.
🎯 ** when to shock a pool**
For a saltwater pool, shocking is typically done when you notice a drop in the water’s pH level below 7.4 or when you see visible signs of algae growth. Additionally, anytime large groups of people will be using the pool, it's wise to shocked it to prevent the introduction of harmful bacteria.
💦 after heavy use
After a particularly heavy swim session or if there has been a significant amount of rainfall, your pool's chlorine may be depleted, making it necessary to shock it to replenish the chlorines and restore the water quality.
🚀 supercharging the pool
When using a pool shock product like shock n swim, there will be no need to supercharge your salt chlorinator, as the shock treatment itself will raise the FC (free chlorine) level.
📸 shocker tip
Always test your pool chemistry before adding shock, and adjust the pH based on the test results. Remember to never mix chlorine and shock together, as this can create a dangerous synergistic effect.
🛠️ steps to shock a pool
- balance the chemistry: Check your pool’s pH, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels and adjust as necessary. A balanced chemistry will help prevent stains and damage to the pool.
- calculate the dosage: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to determine the appropriate amount of shock to add to your pool.
- apply the shock: Add the calculated amount of shock to your pool using the manufacturer's instructions and a measuring cup.
- turn the shock system down: With the shock complete, you can turn your pool's filter back on at a lower level or disengage it to save energy.
- check the chlorine level: Check the chlorine level the next morning to ensure the shock worked properly and maintain optimal sanitation levels in your pool.
🌴 pro tips
If you're still unsure about when or how to shock your pool, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here to help you with all things pool-related.
Matt Harper is the founder of poolcareguy.com. His passion for pool maintenance led him to create a website dedicated to educating and assisting pool owners like you in achieving perfect pool water quality.
