Any pool owner will likely agree, the installation of a swimming pool can help to improve the quality of your health and lifestyle. To continue using and making the most of your pool, clean and safe water is essential. Keeping the water sparkling is as easy as regular maintenance, monitoring and the occasional shock.
In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at pool shock, including how often to shock your pool, the best day and when. To begin, let’s take a look at some of the tell-tale signs that your pool needs to be shocked.
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.
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF DAY TO SHOCK?
The best time of day to shock your pool is in the evening. This is because the sun’s rays can affect the effectiveness of the chlorine by dissolving it too quickly, before it has a chance to rid the pool of contaminants and clean the water. The evening is also a great time to shock your pool as it shouldn’t be used for the next 12-24 hours, so you can shock it after a day of fun in the water.
WHEN TO SHOCK YOUR POOL
You should shock your swimming pool once a week to keep the water clean and safe. Along with regular maintenance, there are other times it should be shocked as well, including:
Opening
While your pool has been closed for the cooler months, it may have a build-up of bacteria and algae. When opening your pool in the late spring, shocking the water can help to rid it of contaminants.
Following Heavy Use
Have you entertained guests or thrown a pool party? With an increased number of swimmers and heavier use, the more likely it is that bacteria and other contaminants such as shampoo, soap and oils will be transmitted into the water. This can lead to a drop in the chlorine levels, which increases the need of pool shock.
After Days of Hot Weather
During extended periods of hot weather, the temperature in your pool can rise, leading to bacteria growth and a decrease in the strength of your chlorine. After an extended period of hot, sunny weather, be sure to shock your pool.
After Heavy Rain
During a heavy rain, contaminants often enter the pool, which can lead to an increase in pH levels.
Strong Chlorine Small or Irritated Eyes
You might think that the smell of chlorine would mean that the pool is clean and water is safe to use, but it’s actually a clear sign that there is a build-up of chloramines, or combined chlorine, in the water. Another sign of this is red and irritated eyes while swimming.
Closing
Make opening your pool at the beginning of the next season a little easier by shocking your pool before you close it. This is also a great opportunity to give your pool a complete clean and inspection. Some supplies to help you do this include robotic pool cleaners, water care chemicals, a skimmer, and a test kit.
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.
