As you shop for pool chemicals you’ve probably found the enticing product called non chlorine pool shock and wondered what it was. Is there truly a way to shock the pool without chlorine which will have the same effect? Will the non chlorine pool shock replace the chlorinated pool shock? We will go over these questions and get into how non chlorine pool shock works and why you may want to integrate it into your pool care scheme. Also, we’ll review some systems to non-chemically provide the same effect as non chlorine pool shock.
Best Non Chlorine Pool Shock
Here are the very best non-chlorine pool shocks on the market. You’ll notice that they vary in price and quantity. We always recommend buying in bulk as it’s usually more economical. Personally, we use In The Swim’s chlorine free pool shock. However, all 4 of these products are high quality and will get the job done.
How Chlorine Pool Shock Works In Your Pool
When you shock the pool with chlorine shock, you are increasing chlorine levels. You increase chlorine to a point where you can eliminate the ammonia compounds called combined chlorine. This returns the free available chlorine (FAC) to its work of fighting off algae and bacterial contaminants.
Unfortunately, in the day to day operation of a pool, chlorine finds itself combining with ammonia compounds instead of fighting off those contaminants. Chlorine is promiscuous and has the tendency to combine instead of doing its primary task, disinfecting your pool water.
Why Use Non Chlorine Pool Shock?
To eliminate the ammonia compounds and keep your chlorine in a free and available state, you can also use non chlorine pool shock. This will oxidize the non-living contaminants in the water which include body oils, perspiration, ammonia, etc. By oxidizing these contaminants, the chlorine remains in its free and available state and can fight off the algae and bacteria.
When To Use Chlorine Shock Vs. Non Chlorine Pool Shock
So why might you want to use chlorine shock instead of non chlorine pool shock? In some cases it makes sense to continue using chlorine shock. For example, if you have a low chlorine level (always test before shocking!), below 2 ppm, just use chlorine shock. This way you eliminate the chloramines, and add chlorine to the water. Also, if you have an algae bloom, chlorine shock is the best and really the only way you can end that bloom once and for all. However, if you don’t have an algae bloom, and your chlorine levels are above 2 ppm, non chlorine pool shock is a great way to keep your pool swimmable.
While we’re on the topic of being able to swim in the pool, non chlorine pool shock is great to use before a party or big swim event because it does not pose a danger to humans. You should still be careful while handling the chemical. However, you can add the non chlorine pool shock and 15 or 20 minutes later use the pool. There’s no burning eyes, no itchy skin, only clear and clean water.
Alternatives To Non Chlorine And Chlorine Pool Shock
If you want the same effect of non chlorine pool shock but don’t want to be buying bags of non chlorine pool shock there is another solution. Ozone systems which are installed on virtually every new hot tub on the market for this reason can also be used on swimming pools. I have been using ozone systems on almost every swimming pool I build for the last twenty years. They are simple and require you to change a light bulb every couple of years to keep them in optimal shape.
Ozone systems add ozone gas to the pool water at the pump using an ultraviolet light bulb. Using the Venturi effect, the ozone is drawn into the pool plumbing, and into the pool. You may notice some slight champagne bubbles in the pool itself. Much like non chlorine pool shock, ozone gas is harmless to humans. It is a safe and effective way to reduce chloramines. Furthermore, it will ultimately reduce reliance on chlorine for your swimming pool maintenance needs.
