Comparing Swimming Pool Chlorine Types

When it comes to maintaining a clean and safe swimming pool, chlorine is the most popular sanitizer out there. But with so many types of chlorine available, choosing the right one for your pool can feel overwhelming. Whether you have a small pool, a large pool, or even a hot tub, understanding the differences between chlorine products can help you make the best decision for your needs. In this guide, we’ll dive — pun intended — into each type of chlorine you might consider for your pool so you can keep the water crystal clear and safe for swimmers all summer long!

Sodium Hypochlorite: “Liquid Chlorine”

Sodium hypochlorite, commonly known as liquid chlorine or liquid bleach, is a popular option for both commercial and residential pools. Sodium hypochlorite works quickly to sanitize pool water and kill contaminants. You can often add more chlorine directly to the pool water using the pool pump and circulate it through the automated feeder system, making it a simple and effective option for small and large pools alike.

However, there are a few factors to consider when using sodium hypochlorite. It is an unstabilized chlorine, meaning it breaks down faster when exposed to the sun’s UV rays. To combat this, you’ll need to add stabilizing agents like cyanuric acid to help the chlorine work more effectively in outdoor pools. Additionally, it can cause low pH in your water, so using a pH increaser may be necessary to maintain balance.

Calcium Hypochlorite: Granular Stabilized Chlorine

Calcium hypochlorite is another type of chlorine commonly used in large, medium, and small pools. It typically comes in a granular form and is widely recognized for its strong chlorine content. One of the major benefits of calcium hypochlorite is that it doesn’t degrade as quickly in the sun, making it a great option for outdoor pools.

While effective, calcium hypochlorite increases calcium hardness in pool water. Make sure to monitor calcium levels, especially in plaster pools, to avoid scaling or damage. Pool professionals also recommend pre-dissolving the granular chlorine before adding it to your pool to prevent direct contact with pool surfaces.

Chlorine Tablets: Convenient and Long-Lasting

Chlorine tablets, another type of stabilized chlorine, are widely favored for their convenience. These tablets slowly dissolve in your indoor or outdoor pool, providing a steady release of chlorine to maintain proper levels over time. Chlorine tablets also usually contain cyanuric acid (previously mentioned) or another stabilizing agent like isocyanuric acid. If you plan on using tablets, be mindful of dissolved solids in the water, as too much stabilizer can reduce the chlorine’s effectiveness. It’s also essential to monitor the chlorine residual to ensure enough chlorine is present to effectively sanitize the pool.

A Look at Specialized Types of Chlorine

Chlorine gas is one of the oldest types of chlorine added to swimming pools, though it’s less common today due to the safety concerns it presents. Although chlorine gas is highly effective as a pool sanitizer, it is hazardous to handle and requires specialized equipment. Because of the fire hazard and the complexity of using chlorine gas, most pool experts opt for safer alternatives.

There are a few viable alternatives to the types of chlorine we’ve already discussed. Lithium hypochlorite is a powder chlorine that dissolves quickly and doesn’t impact hardness, making it ideal for both indoor pools and outdoor pools. Sodium chloride, or pool salt, is used in salt systems, which create chlorine through a specialized salt water chlorine generator.

Maintaining a Healthy Pool

Whether you choose chlorine tablets, lithium hypochlorite, or another type of chlorine, maintaining the proper chlorine level is crucial for both commercial and residential pools. Regular water testing is essential to ensure free chlorine levels and other chemicals are within the recommended range. Too little chlorine can result in cloudy water and bacteria growth, while too much chlorine added to the pool can cause skin irritation, strip body oils, and damage plaster and tile.

Find the Right Chlorine Type for Your Pool

Understanding the different types of chlorine and how they interact with your pool water can make pool maintenance easier and more effective. Keeping a close eye on chlorine, stabilizing agents, and water chemistry will help you keep your pool or hot tub in top shape.

Need help choosing the right chlorine type for your pool? At Bennington Pool Services, we specialize in personalized pool management, ensuring your pool stays clean and safe all year long. Read through our other articles to learn more about our King of Prussia, Philadelphia County, and Souderton pool services, browse our online lifeguard shop, or contact us today to discover effective pool care solutions!