To dissolve chlorine in a pool, you typically mix it in a bucket of pool water before adding it to the pool to ensure even distribution and prevent damage to the pool surface. Never mix different types of chlorine together.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to safely dissolve chlorine in a pool using granular or powdered chlorine:
Steps to Dissolve Chlorine Properly
-
Gather Your Supplies:
- The correct type and amount of chlorine (refer to your pool's needs and the product instructions). Ensure you are using the type of chlorine intended for your pool (e.g., calcium hypochlorite, sodium hypochlorite). Do not use Trichlor tablets in this method.
- A clean, plastic bucket (dedicated for pool chemicals).
- A stirring stick or tool (also dedicated for pool chemicals).
- Safety goggles and gloves.
-
Test Your Pool Water:
- Before adding any chemicals, test your pool water's current chlorine levels and pH using a reliable pool test kit or strips. This will help determine the appropriate amount of chlorine to add. Also test your fill water to understand your starting point.
-
Fill the Bucket with Pool Water:
- Using the dedicated plastic bucket, scoop water from the pool. Fill the bucket approximately ¾ full. This prevents highly concentrated chlorine from directly contacting the pool surface.
-
Add Chlorine to the Bucket (Slowly):
- Wearing safety goggles and gloves, carefully and slowly add the measured amount of chlorine granules or powder to the bucket of water. Avoid splashing. Always add chlorine to water, not water to chlorine.
-
Stir Until Dissolved:
- Using the stirring stick, thoroughly mix the chlorine and water until the chlorine is completely dissolved. There should be no visible granules or powder remaining at the bottom of the bucket.
-
Add the Solution to the Pool:
- Slowly pour the dissolved chlorine solution around the perimeter of the pool. This helps distribute the chlorine evenly. Avoid pouring it all in one spot.
-
Run Your Pool Pump:
- Run your pool pump for at least an hour (or as recommended on the chlorine product label) to ensure proper circulation and distribution of the chlorine throughout the pool.
-
Re-test and Adjust:
- After the pump has circulated the water, re-test the pool water's chlorine levels and pH. Adjust accordingly to reach the desired levels.
Important Safety Precautions
- Ventilation: Always mix chlorine in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
- Protective Gear: Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect your eyes and skin.
- Storage: Store chlorine products in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and other chemicals.
- Mixing: Never mix different types of chlorine or other pool chemicals together, as this can create dangerous and potentially explosive gases.
- Children and Pets: Keep chlorine products out of reach of children and pets.
- Follow Product Instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions on the chlorine product label.
