
- Any time you’re not going to use the pool for at least two hours.
- If it’s hot outside, you can do a very light shock treatment on your way out in the morning, and then do a full one once you are home from ...
- If you have pets, it’s a good idea to shock your pool once a week even if they’re out of the pool most of your maintenance time.
Is it really necessary to shock a pool?
You don't normally need to shock. After a storm it is a good idea to add a little extra chlorine, to help take care of the extra debris that got into the pool, but shocking is not normally required. If the FC level actually goes to zero, then you should shock. Usually that doesn't happen. Thank you. Click to expand... I thought you had rain?
Can you put too much shock in your pool?
You can keep your pool safe and clean and run it efficiently without all of the extra mess and frustration. So, can you over-shock a pool? The answer is yes and no, because it will all burn off approximately in 48 hours. Also, there is another possibility. You can “under-shock” your pool. It is important that you make sure to use the proper volume of Liquid Chlorine according to your pool’s gallonage.
How to properly Shock Your swimming pool?
- Read the directions on your container of pool shock and mix and measure it, using the manufacturer’s directions.
- Pour the shock into the water according to the instructions given by the manufacturer. ...
- Let the chemical mixture do its work. ...
- Once the correct amount of time has passed, it’s time to test your pool’s chlorine levels before diving in. ...
What is the best way to shock a pool?
Step-by-Step: How to Shock a Swimming Pool
- Test the Water. The first step in shocking the pool is to test the water and calculate the current ratio. ...
- Calculate the Amount of Shock to Use. The next step is to calculate the optimal amount of shock to prepare. ...
- Make Sure the Pump Is Working. ...
- Dump Shock In the Pool. ...
- Test the Water Again to Check for Optimal Chlorine Levels. ...

Can you shock the pool too much?
A common question among pool owners is, “Can I over shock the pool?” The short answer is no. You can add more shock than needed, which is a waste of money and materials. You can also get green hair from a reaction to high levels of chlorine. In general, however, over-shocking is harmless.
How long does shock last in pool?
The general rule of thumb for shocking a pool and then swimming is 24 hours.
Does an above ground pool need to be shocked?
Shock your above-ground pool weekly. You should shock your pool in the evening. Otherwise, midday sunlight can break down the chlorine before it's fully able to do its job. After adding shock to the pool, turn the pump on and let it run for 8 or more hours.
What happens if you don't shock your pool?
Try to reach the breakpoint every time you shock your pool. Not hitting the breakpoint can result in even more chloramines in your pool, and if the chloramine levels continue to rise unchecked, you may eventually have to partially or even fully replace your water to fix the issue.
Do I run the filter when I shock my pool?
Run the filtration system While shocking your pool will help kill any germs any algae, it won't actually get rid of them; for that, you need your filter. So be sure to run your pool filter for at least 24 hours.
Is chlorine and shock the same thing?
Chlorine is a sanitizer, and (unless you use Baquacil products) is necessary for maintaining a clear and healthy pool. Shock is chlorine, in a high dose, meant to shock your pool and raise the chlorine level quickly.
How long should I run my pool pump after shocking?
It is a question a lot of pool owners have and a question that we have the answer to! A pool filter should be run for a minimum of 6 hours after shocking a swimming pool. This is to allow the filter to clean the water and give the shock enough time to fully mix with the pool water.
What is the best way to shock your above-ground pool?
0:301:24How to shock your pool - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo be sure to add shock in the evening. Make sure your pump is running just snip the corner off theMoreSo be sure to add shock in the evening. Make sure your pump is running just snip the corner off the package and sprinkle it in along the deepest end of your pool. If any granules settle in the bottom.
How often add chlorine to above-ground pool?
Pool Maintenance (Ongoing)Step 1:Always keep chlorine level in the safe range on your test strip. Test after daily. Run your pool filter at least 6 to 8 hrs every day.Step 3:Add maintenance dose of algaecide per label instructions weekly.Step 4:Add 2 oz of Super Clarifier per 5000 gallons of pool water each week.1 more row
What does baking soda do for a pool?
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate is naturally alkaline, with a pH of 8. When you add baking soda to your pool water, you will raise both the pH and the alkalinity, improving stability and clarity. Many commercial pool products for raising alkalinity utilize baking soda as their main active ingredient.
How long does pool shock take to work?
Heavy shocking with granular chlorine will generally require 24-48 hours before the chlorine level has dropped to safe swimming levels (below 5 ppm). Lithium and Non-Chlorine shock labels typically allow immediate swimming, but check the package label, to be sure.
Does shock raise pH?
It will slightly raise your pH, so make sure you adjust pH while using it. As the name implies, it will also raise your calcium hardness levels in your pool slightly. It is sold in granular or in pucks/tablets. A close relative of calcium hypochlorite is sodium hypochlorite, commonly known as bleach.
What happens if you go in a pool that was just shocked?
In terms of swimming in a pool that has been recently shocked, you may be exposing yourself to the risk of skin and eye irritation. If this happens then rinse thoroughly with clean water for several minutes (source).
Can you swim in a pool after shocking it?
Can you swim in the pool after you shock a pool? You need to wait for at least 8 hours and up to 24 hours after using a chlorine-based shock before you can swim. And you'll want to retest your water to make sure your chemical levels are within range.
Why did my pool get cloudy after I shocked it?
High doses of chlorine, like pool shock, can cause temporary cloudiness as it kills contaminants. High levels of pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness are more likely to cause cloudy water.
How long should I run my pool pump after shocking?
It is a question a lot of pool owners have and a question that we have the answer to! A pool filter should be run for a minimum of 6 hours after shocking a swimming pool. This is to allow the filter to clean the water and give the shock enough time to fully mix with the pool water.
What is the best shock for a pool?
If bromine is used as your primary sanitizer/conditioner, this is the best type of pool shock for your pool. You can use any one of the 3 main types of pool shock for regular shock maintenance.
What is a Pool Shock?
A “shock” simply refers to adding above normal levels of chlorine or sanitizer to your pool to quickly raise the levels of chemicals in a very short amount of time.
How to dissolve pool shock?
In a bucket, mix your pool shock chemicals into water from the pool until they dissolve.
What to do if your above ground pool turns green?
You’ll definitely need to shock your pool and use some algaecide if your above ground pool’s water starts to turn green or give off a foul oder.
What is the strongest pool shock?
Cal-hypo is the strongest pool shock available. It’s quick dissolving, but should be pre-dissolved in a bucket before being added to the pool. Failing to pre-dissolve the pool shock can lead to liner bleaching or pin holes in the worst case scenario. The sun will eat it up pretty quickly, so it’s best to use cal-hypo pool shock at night. This type of pool shock is best if the water has already turned green. After shocking a pool with cal-hypo, you can swim again once the chlorine levels have returned to normal.
How long does it take to swim with potassium monopersulfate?
You’ll be able to swim after about 15 minutes of using this type of pool shock.
What to do before entering the pool?
Encourage swimmers to rinse off before entering the pool.
How Often Should You Shock a Pool?
The time between pool shocking treatments will depend on several factors:
When Is The Best Time To Shock a Pool?
You don’t want to put the shock in the pool right after it’s been filtered because the amount of chlorine that goes into the solution is reduced quite a bit. You also don’t want to put the shock in the pool near your filter, because the chlorine will go straight through the filter and into the pool without being used up cleaning bacteria.
Why do we shock a pool?
Pool shock destroys the algae and bacteria living in your pool and removes combined Chlorine molecules called chloramines.
How to keep pool clean and clear?
Regularly shocking your pool is one of the best ways to keep it clean and clear. All you need to know are the seven shocking rules.
Does shocking a pool kill bacteria?
You will kill more and more bacteria every time you shock your pool. Weekly shocking is a great way to keep your Chlorine levels up and prevent algae grow.
Is shocking a good way to reset after a storm?
So shocking is a great way to reset after a storm.
Does a shock remove chlorine?
There’s also a non-chlorine shock that only helps to remove chloramines that will not raise the free chlorine level in your pool.
Does chlorine burn off in pool shock?
Chlorine in Pool Shock is unstabilized and the sun will burn off the Chlorine very quickly.
What is the shock level for a pool?
HELPFUL POOL SHOCK TIPS TO ALWAYS REMEMBER: Shock if free chlorine level of your pool measures zero or combined chlorine level rises above 0.5. Always add shock to water NOT water to shock. Always use the entire bag, never store half-full bags of shock.
How to get chlorine out of pool?
Always brush your pool after shocking, with the pump running, to help quickly distribute the chlorine. Always rinse out your shock bags in the pool and allow to dry before throwing away. Always add shock up wind - so that the wind does not blow the powder back in your face.
Does chlorine raise the pH in a pool?
Chlorine has a low pH level, and in order to maintain your pool water's clarity and balance, shocking weekly will allow you to quickly raise the chlorine level, which will rid the pool of contaminants, without lowering the water’s pH levels.
How long after shock to swim in pool?
It’s recommended to avoid swimming in your pool 24-48 hours after you shock your pool. This will allow the chemicals to run through the water and not harm your skin or eyes. Always read the packaging on your pool shock to check the recommendations.
How Do You Shock Your Pool?
When the filter is running, either pour or sprinkle the shock around the perimeter of your pool. Be sure that nothing sprinkles on you because it will bleach your clothing.
What is Pool Shock?
Shock is a form of chlorine that is used to treat your pool. Pool shock is often referred to as a granular oxidizer. It can also be bought in a liquid form. The liquid form comes in a container similar to laundry bleach. It dissolves quickly because it is liquid and has no residue. You have to be careful when using liquid shock because if any gets on your clothes, it will bleach them.
Why does pool shock dissolve quickly?
It dissolves quickly because it is liquid and has no residue. You have to be careful when using liquid shock because if any gets on your clothes, it will bleach them. Pool shock can also come in a granular form. This often has to be dissolved in water and then poured into your pool. The granular shock is often stronger than the liquid shock.
How many points does Flower Mound Pool have?
Flower Mound Pool Care & Maintenance has a 23-point service plan that includes the following:
What does it mean when your pool is shocked?
If this happens it could mean that water has a build-up of chloramines. This is a clear indicator that your pool needs to be shocked. Shock your pool when you close it. Although you’ll need to shock it again when you re-open your pool, it’s always a good idea to close your pool with clean water.
Can you shock a pool when it's sunny?
If you put the shock in while it’s sunny out, it will not work as well. Never shock your pool when people are swimming in it. This is extremely dangerous. By waiting until the filter is running, you can be sure that the shock is filtered properly all around your pool.
When to add shock to pool water?
In addition to your regular maintenance, common circumstances in which it’s a good idea to add shock to your pool water include: When opening your pool in the spring – When a pool is first opened, the chlorine level normally needs an immediate boost, and shock is the quickest and easiest way to accomplish this.
How long should you wait to go back into a pool after using a chlorine shock?
Chlorine shock can be used to give your chlorine level a boost when it is very low. After using a chlorine-based shock, you should wait at least 8 hours before going back into the pool.
What happens when you shock your pool?
Shock “burns” or oxidizes these contaminants and replenishes the chlorine level in your pool. Pool shock actually restores your chlorine’s “fighting power” and makes it safe to swim again.
What to do if algae starts to grow in pool?
Algae Growth – If any visible algae starts to develop, you’ll need to shock the pool. Green algae is the most common, but it can also appear as yellow, brown, black or even pink. For visible algae growth, an algaecide should also be used. Both shock and algaecide are included in our Green Algae Package. After you have a lot of people in the pool – ...
Why do you add shock to a pool?
In this case, the shock should be added at night, so that it can stay active in the water without being quickly burned out by the sun.
When to use chlorine shock?
A chlorine shock may be used if the chlorine level is low, or a non-chlorine shock may be used if your chlorine level is already stable. Non-chlorine shock is included in our Winterizing Closing Kit for Chlorinated or Saltwater Pools.
How long after shock can you swim?
With most non-chlorine shocks, you can swim again 15 minutes after shocking the water. Always make sure that the filter system is running while shocking the pool. Some pool owners choose to shock their pools once every 1-2 weeks as normal maintenance.
