If you’re adding chlorine for the first time, add the amount of product required to achieve a free available chlorine level of 2 to 3 ppm. Slowly mix the solution until a liquid product is evenly dispersed or a granular product is fully dissolved. They’re easier to use, last longer, and are gentler on pool liners than liquid options, which are best used as shock treatments. Always test your chlorine levels after amending the pool water before you allow anyone to go swimming.

Free available chlorine is active and kills germs, while combined chlorine is the amount that’s been used up killing germs. With over 20 years of experience in construction, Rob specializes in energy-efficient and drought-tolerant landscaping. Instead, it’s best to use a floating chlorine feeder, chlorinating skimmer, or other automatic dispensing device.If you’re treating an indoor pool, make sure there’s adequate ventilation before opening a chemical container. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. If your pool is circular, measure the diameter, divide that value by 2 to find the radius, then use the formula πr 2h, where r is the radius and h is the average depth. If necessary, your product’s instructions will direct you to add an acidic pool water amendment to counteract the shock treatment’s high pH. Read your product’s instructions; the label will let you know how much to add based on your pool’s volume to reach the target chlorine level in ppm.

Be sure to wear protective gear when diluting or applying chlorine shock treatments and any other pool chemicals. X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. Chlorine tablets are the best option for maintaining a normal level of 2 to 3 parts per million (ppm). Bear in mind a free available chlorine level over 10 ppm may burn the test strip and yield a false reading of 0 ppm. Unless your pool’s chlorine level is below 1 ppm or above 5 ppm, it’s fine to go swimming while the tablets dissolve.Whether you’re working with chlorine in tablet, liquid, or granular form, read the product’s instructions carefully and use it as directed. jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"