Q: What is better to shock with, a chlorine shock or a non-chlorine shock?

A: Both have their advantages. A chlorine shock adds free chlorine to disinfect but you must add enough shock to eliminate the troublesome combined chlorine and clear the water. Wait 8 hours before swimming after a chlorine shock. A non-chlorine shock is easier on the vinyl liner and bathing suits. It can be used with chlorine or bromine. You can use the pool after 15 minutes. A chlorine shock kills algae, a non-chlorine shock does not.

Q: Why do I stabilize my pool?

A: If your pool is outdoors the sun's rays will burn off the chlorine in 3-4 hours. Stabilizer effectively slows down this process.

Q: Should I stabilize Bromine in a Pool or Spa?

A: No. Bromine cannot be stabilized.

Q: When should I shock my pool?

A: Under normal conditions a pool should be shocked every 7-10 days. After heavy bathing or a rain storm a pool should be shocked. If the water is cloudy and the water irritates the swimmers eyes, it is time to shock.

Q: Can I switch from a chlorine disinfectant to bromine?

A: Yes. You can switch from chlorine to bromine without draining your pool. (Consult your pool dealer.)
You may also switch from bromine to chlorine but the process is a little more intricate.
(Again, please consult your dealer for details.)

Q: The town pool had a strong chlorine odour. Is there too much chlorine in it?

A: NO, not enough chlorine! A strong chlorine odour usually means combined chlorine. This is an ineffective sanitizer that creates cloudy water and irritates the swimmers eyes and skin. The water must be shocked.

Q: How accurate are Test Strips?

A: Test Strips are more than adequate for your backyard pool or spa.
Commercial pools may require a greater need for accuracy in which case DPD testing should be used.