Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Swimming Pool Shock Granules
If you own a swimming pool, proper maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and the safety of swimmers. Therefore, you must get the right pool supplies to achieve a clean and safe swimming environment. Pool shocks are particularly essential supplies because they oxidise the water, burn impurities and kill bacteria and algae. However, you must avoid common mistakes when using pool shocks for the chemicals to work effectively. This article highlights common errors in this regard and their remedy.
Adding Pool Shock Granules Directly
Homeowners with big swimming pools often think there is nothing wrong with adding pool shock granules directly to the water. However, it is the last thing you should do if you want your swimming pool to last. The reason is that pool shock granules are packed with concentrated chlorine, which can bleach anything within a pool's boundaries. For example, adding pool shock directly to pool water can alter your swimsuit's colour. Additionally, excess chlorine in the water leaves an excruciating and burning sensation in your eyes. Perhaps the most devastating effect of adding shock granules directly to a pool is on the vinyl lining. As the granules sink to the bottom of a pool, they bleach the vinyl lining, making it brittle and causing leaks. The best thing to do is to pre-dissolve shock granules in a bucket of pool water. It allows the dissolved granules to disperse evenly; hence, protecting your pool.
Adding a Pool Shock to a Skimmer
The skimmer is an integral part of your pool's filtration system. As such, you should not add shock granules directly. It might seem like a minor mistake, but the consequences can be dire. For example, if your filtration system is equipped with an automatic chlorinator, avoid mixing it with other chemicals in the water as that can result in deadly consequences. Therefore, keep a pool shock far away from a skimmer even if you have already pre-dissolved it in a bucket of water.
Adding Pool Shock During the Day
Chloramines are chemical compounds left behind when the chlorine in your pool attaches to bacteria, algae and other harmful microorganisms. Since chloramines irritate the eyes, you need a pool shock to eliminate them. However, remember that a pool shock is an unstabilised chlorine; hence, less effective under the sun. Thus, shocking your pool during the day only wastes your supplies and money. The best time to shock your pool is late evening or at night when granules have enough time to do their job efficiently. To learn more, contact a company that provides pool supplies.