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When And How to Shock Your Pool

What kind of pool shock do you use? Most people don’t think about this question until they have a problem with their chlorine levels. Pool maintenance is very simple when done on time, but it gets complicated very quickly if you let something go for too long.

Just last week my neighbor told me she spent $500 on new pool chemicals for her in-ground swimming pool. She said it’s the most expensive she has ever had to pay, and I know exactly why! She didn’t have a clue what kind or how much of each chemical to use. Not only that but if you get too high concentration of something it might damage your equipment instead of doing what it’s supposed to do which is help clean your water & lower chlorine consumption on the filter.

When do you need pool shock? Let’s review 3 reasons you may need it.

#1 To Kill Algae

There are a few ways to get rid of algae in your pool. One way is by using the natural sun, but this takes time and requires you to get out there every day to stir it so most people opt for chlorinating their pools. There are many different products on the market today that help control algae without harming your pool linings or grass around it.

Algae can be a real problem for swimming pools. It grows quickly and is difficult to remove. However, there is a solution. Baires Pool Service has the right pool shock for your pool. Pool shock, in the right amounts, will destroy all types of algae.

#2 To Kill Bacteria

A new study has shown that some of the most common bacteria, viruses, and parasites can live in pool and spa water. In a study conducted by the National Swimming Pool Foundation it was discovered that after 20 minutes of entering a pool, swimmers have transferred 11 bacterial strains to their skin that can come from water. These include E. coli and MRSA – even Cryptosporidium which is known for causing outbreaks at pools and resorts during summer months.

Baires Pool Service has guidelines to help pool owners protect themselves from harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites. As a Pool Maintenance Specialist, not only do I suggest to my clients the shock amount of water treatment needed for their pool’s size and shape but also why it is necessary.

Shock chlorinating your swimming pool is necessary when there are high levels of bacteria in the water such as above 400 CFU/100 ml sample. The amount of shock you need depends on various factors: type and size of your swimming pool, its capacity, where you live geographically (climate), etc.; just to mention a few aspects that contribute to it.

#3 To Destroy Chloramines

If you swim in a pool or spa, you’ve probably noticed that your eyes burn after swimming in certain pools. Chloramines are driving this problem – and it’s not the only reason why chloramines are bad for swimmers (and their bathing suits).

As you may know, chloramines are not good for your pool water. They have a bonding effect on the walls of the pool itself. What people do not understand is exactly what situations lead to having high levels in their pools or spas.

Chloramines are a byproduct of chlorine and the more you use the higher they will build up. The service we supply is to bring it down, we treat pools with shock so the customer gets clear water again.

How to Shock the Pool

First, you must clean, then lower pH, and finally, define the product you will use and how much will be needed for your pool. After adding the shock, you must brush and vacuum the pool for the treatment to work best.

In conclusion

You must test your pool regularly to find out how much product is needed and when you need to do it.

Having a pool is like having an oasis in your backyard. When you think of the most relaxing places to be, they are most likely near or beside the water. One important thing about pools is that they must be treated with chlorine and PH balanced regularly. That’s why it is extremely handy to have Baires Pool service maintain it for you!