How to Use Chlorine Tablets in Swimming Pool Maintenance
Chlorine is used in swimming pools to kill bacteria, prevent algae growth and maintain a level pH that is safe for swimmers. Chlorine tablets dissolve slowly into the water and provide and easy maintenance task for pool owners. There is no chlorine to mix, just add a tablet to the water as needed. Chlorine tablets can be one of the most economical ways to keep your pool usable.
Figure out the size of your pool, including how many gallons of water it holds, with an online calculator. Blue Haven Pools has a handy calculator in its website (see Resources). Use a yard stick to measure the length and width of your pool.
Pick a stabilized chlorine tablet for your swimming pool maintenance. Stabilized tablets contain cyuranic acid as well as chlorine, which helps keep the pool's pH level consistent.
Use a tablet dispenser to shock your pool with chlorine tablets. If you put the tablets directly into the pool, can you risk discoloration and corrosion of the skimmer and heating elements. Tablet dispensers allow the chlorine to dissolve without damaging any aspect of your pool.
Read the label on your chlorine tablet package carefully. The number of tablets and frequency of use will depend on the size and strength of the tablet and the size of your pool. Tablets usually come in 1-inch and 3-inch sizes (thicknesses).
Test the pool water on a weekly basis. Chlorine should usually stay at a 1 to 3 parts per million (ppm) reading. Frequent readings will help you adjust your maintenance routine.
Related Articles
Writer Bio
Erica Roth has been a writer since 2007. She is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists and was a college reference librarian for eight years. Roth earned a Bachelor of Arts in French literature from Brandeis University and Master of Library Science from Simmons College Graduate School of Library and Information Science. Her articles appear on various websites.
