Owning a swimming pool is a luxury. However, owning this commodity also requires responsibility. You need to perform routine maintenance to keep it safe and clean for swimming, including regular shock treatments. Here's what you should know about pool shock treatments and why they're necessary.

What Is Pool Shocking?

A pool shock is a routine process that must be performed to balance its chemistry. This process adds chlorine to your pool, which sanitizes the water and destroys the chlorine byproduct—chloramine. This makes a pool more clear and removes algae growth.

When Should You Shock the Pool?

Ideally, it's best to shock the pool weekly, bi-weekly, or after hosting events where many people were swimming. You should also perform this process after inclement weather that leaves debris in and around your pool. The pool should be shocked at night or in the late evening. The sun will burn off most of the chlorine if you shock during the daytime, making it ineffective when done in the morning or at midday. 

How Do You Shock the Pool?

Adding chlorine to the pool is an easy process if you're comfortable handling the chemicals involved. You can perform this process on any chlorinated in-ground, above-ground, or inflatable pool. Make sure you wear protective eyewear and gloves, and use a shock set from a local swimming pool company. The water should be tested before you begin to make sure the chlorine needs to be increased before adding it. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, which will vary depending on which pool-shock set you purchased. You can also hire a professional for assistance if necessary.

If you need assistance with your swimming pool, Don Marcum's Pool Care offers maintenance services to residents throughout Cincinnati, OH. They provide fast and reliable service and use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your pool is in great condition and were voted twice as one of the Top 100 Swimming Pool Companies in the Nation by Aqua Magazine. Call (513) 561-7050 to schedule maintenance, or visit their website to learn how to get a discount.