Shocking is an essential part of pool maintenance. The process involves adding chemicals to your swimming pool that eliminate bacteria and organic matter, keeping your water clean and clear. You should shock your pool on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, but there are other circumstances in which it’s best to apply chemicals immediately.

3 Occasions to Use Shock for Pool Maintenance

1. Opening or Closing Your Pool

If you close your pool during the winter because you don’t use it as often, apply a treatment. Do this a few days before closing the pool since the chlorine level will need to return back to normal before you can add algaecide. When you open the pool again in the spring or summer, the chlorine level usually needs to be increased with another shock to make your water clean and fresh.

2. Algae Growth

If your water starts turning green or you see floating algae, shocking should be your first step of pool maintenance. Algae is usually green but can also be yellow, black, or brown. It forms when your pool doesn’t have enough chlorine, in which case shocking will provide a high dose. If you catch the algae quickly enough, it should disappear in one to three days.

3. Extreme Weather

If your area experiences any extreme weather events like heavy rain, a windstorm, or a heatwave, it’s a good idea to shock the pool. If it rains, pool shock can help fight off any contaminants the storm brought to your pool. Windstorms can also blow organic particles into your pool. Lots of sunlight and heat can diminish the chlorine level in the pool, and a shock is the best way to fix that.

If you need help shocking and maintaining your swimming pool, Aquatech Pool and Spa in Waialua, HI, is here to help. Since 2005, they’ve offered comprehensive pool maintenance, including monitoring water chemistry, cleaning the walls and floor, and repairing old or broken equipment. Call (808) 271-8272 for a quote, or visit their website for a list of services.