Using the right pool cleaning chemicals is important for maintaining the health of your swimming pool. While you usually need to buy chemicals only once a year, some may be necessary more often. These products include algaecides, enzymes, clarifiers, and cyanuric acid. They can come in handy when you’re in a pinch, but you should understand their proper usage.
Dichlor
Dichlor is commonly used to eliminate black algae in swimming pools. It is not harmful to vinyl-lined pools. Dichlor is a dry solid with strong oxidizing properties. Dichlor should be stored in a cool, dry, ventilated area. Dichlor should not be mixed with other pool chemicals. In addition, dichlor-based cleaning chemicals must be stored in their original packaging.
Trichlor
Trichlor is a popular pool cleaning chemical. This product can be added directly to the pool or pre-dissolved in water and poured around the perimeter. It is important to read and follow the instructions on the label and use the product correctly. It is also important to wear gloves and safety goggles when handling the product.
While many pool sanitizers will sanitize a pool, trichlor is superior to other options. This chemical contains the highest available concentration of chlorine, at 90 percent. However, it is not a good choice as a primary sanitizer for commercial pools.
Hypochlorous acid
Hypochlorous acid is a powerful pool cleaning agent. It breaks down organic matter and other chemicals in the water. Its pH is close to 7.2, which is similar to the pH of human tears. This makes it gentle on swimmers’ skin and eyes. It is also known for producing a distinct smell in pools. Its combination with ammonia effectively eliminates algae but can produce a foul odor. Adding Hypochlorous acid periodically will help keep the water clear and odor-free.
The use of hypochlorous acid in swimming pools is often needed to maintain a stable pH level. An improper pH level can cause eye irritation and plaster walls to etch. The metal fittings in the pool may corrode, and dissolved metal will stain the pool walls.
Oxidizers
Oxidizers are an underutilized component of pool cleaning products. They convert organic waste into harmless gases and act as an additional sanitizer. The oxidization process transforms the contaminants into simpler to remove materials and prevents algae growth and cloudy water. Many pool supply retailers fail to highlight the value of oxidizers as part of a pool cleaning routine.