How to Change Chlorine Levels in a Swimming Pool

Chlorine is a chemical used to sanitize swimming pools and spas. Chlorine sanitizes pool water by killing contaminates, such as algae and body wastes. In order for chlorine to properly sanitize pool water, the correct chlorine level must be maintained in the water. Rain, large numbers of swimmers and water temperature all affect the chlorine level in pool water. The chlorine level in a pool is easy to change to suit your pool's needs.

Things You'll Need

• Testing kit
• Chlorine neutralizer
• Chlorine shock
• Gloves
• 5-gallon bucket

Instructions

Lowering Chlorine Levels

1. Test a sample of pool water for chlorine content. Take a sample of your pool's water and perform a chlorine test on it by using a testing kit or taking the sample to your local pool professional. Write down the chlorine level. Ideal chlorine levels are between a 1 and 3.

2. Prepare the chlorine lowering treatment. Use the chlorine test results to purchase the proper amount of a chlorine neutralizer product. Read the label on the product for specific application instructions. Typically 16 oz. are used per 10,000 gallons of pool water to lower the chlorine level by 1.

3. Treat the pool with the chlorine neutralizer. Apply the chemical directly to the pool water with the pool running. Test the pool water two to three hours after the treatment to ensure the desired chlorine level is reached.

Raising Chlorine Levels

1. Test a sample of pool water for chlorine content. Take a sample of your pool's water and perform a chlorine test on it by using a testing kit or taking the sample to your local pool professional. Write down the chlorine level. Ideal chlorine levels are between a 1 and 3.

2. Prepare the chlorine raising treatment. Purchase chlorine pool shock. A one pound bag generally treats 10,000 gallons of pool water. Chlorine shock strongly boosts the chlorine level and allows it to stabilize to a normal level over a few hours.

3. Mix the pool shock with water in a five-gallon bucket. Fill a five-gallon bucket with water. Pour the shock into the bucket of water and stir the two together. Predissolving the shock in this way prevents it from settling onto the pool bottom and causing bleaching or staining.

4. Treat the pool with the shock mixture. Pour the contents of the bucket around the edge of the pool directly onto the pool water. Allow the pool to circulate constantly for at least six hours. Check a sample of pool water for chlorine content to ensure the proper level is reached.

Tips & Warnings

• Never mix chemical products. Mixing different chemical products can result in hazardous reactions. Always check the product label for warnings.

• Always wear proper hand protection when applying chemicals.

References

• Pool Chemical Information