Before you head down to Home Depot, Costco, or the local pool store, read this first!
Keeping your pool sparkling clean and safe for swimming requires regular maintenance and a key part of that is using pool shock treatment. But when it comes to pool shock, not all options are created equal. Understanding the difference in “available chlorine” content can save you money and frustration in the long run.
Why Available Chlorine Matters
Pool shock essentially boosts your chlorine levels to combat built-up contaminants, like algae or various forms of bacteria. What matters most is the percentage of “available chlorine” in the pool shock treatment you choose. This refers to the chlorine that’s readily available to sanitize your pool.
Cheaper pool shocks might seem like a bargain, but they often contain a lower percentage of available chlorine. This means you’ll need to use more product to achieve the same results as a shock with a higher available chlorine content. In the end, you might be spending more money to get the same level of sanitation.
The Downside of Pool Shocks Containing Stabilizer
Some pool shocks – especially pool shocks bought from the big box stores – include cyanuric acid, also known as stabilizer. While stabilizer helps prevent chlorine breakdown from sunlight, too much can render your chlorine ineffective. This is because chlorine needs to be free (unbound by stabilizer) to properly sanitize your pool.
Using a pool shock with stabilizer can quickly throw your pool’s chemical balance out of whack, leading to an over-stabilized pool. This makes your chlorine essentially useless, leaving your pool vulnerable to algae growth. Not to mention, the fix is expensive, because lowering CYA levels requires partially draining and refilling your pool, forcing you to buy more chemicals to replenish what you’ve lost – a potential double whammy to your wallet.
Choosing the Right Pool Shock Treatment
Here’s what to keep in mind when selecting pool shock:
- Available Chlorine %: Look for a pool shock with a higher percentage of available chlorine (65% or more). Our Poolife Turboshock has an unbeatable 75%! This ensures you’re using the most effective product.
- Stabilizer Content: Choose a pool shock with no stabilizer, like Poolife Turboshock.
Remember: It’s always best to test your pool’s chlorine and stabilizer levels regularly. Give us a visit at any one of our local pool stores located in Memphis, Germantown or Collierville. We’ll offer guidance on maintaining the proper chemical balance in your pool.
