You cannot put shock in a skimmer basket. Adding pool shock directly to your skimmer can damage your pool liner, equipment, and plumbing, and it’s also a less effective way to sanitize your pool. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dissolving and adding pool shock.
Why You Shouldn’t Put Pool Shock in the Skimmer
Many pool owners wonder if they can simplify the shock treatment process by simply tossing a tablet or granules into the skimmer basket. While it might seem convenient, this practice is strongly discouraged by pool experts and manufacturers alike. There are several critical reasons why this is a bad idea for your pool’s health and longevity.
Understanding Pool Shock and Its Application
Pool shock, also known as superchlorination, is a process that significantly raises the chlorine level in your pool water. This helps to kill bacteria, algae, and other contaminants that regular chlorination can’t handle. It’s an essential part of pool maintenance, especially after heavy use, storms, or when dealing with algae blooms.
Proper shock application involves dissolving the shock product in water before adding it to the pool. This ensures it disperses evenly and doesn’t concentrate in one area. The goal is to raise the overall chlorine level of the entire pool water volume.
The Dangers of Skimmer Shocking
Putting pool shock directly into the skimmer basket can lead to a cascade of problems. The concentrated chemicals can directly contact and corrode your pool’s surfaces and equipment. This is a common cause of premature wear and tear.
Equipment Damage Risks
Your skimmer basket is usually made of plastic, and the surrounding plumbing is often PVC. Many pool shock products, especially granular ones like calcium hypochlorite, are highly alkaline or acidic. When these chemicals sit undissolved in the skimmer, they can eat away at plastic components, leading to cracks and leaks.
Furthermore, the water that passes through the skimmer goes directly to your pump and filter. If undissolved shock is present, it can damage the pump’s seals and impellers, as well as the filter media. This can result in costly repairs or replacements.
Liner and Surface Degradation
For pools with vinyl liners or plaster surfaces, direct contact with undissolved pool shock is particularly damaging. The strong chemicals can bleach and degrade vinyl liners, causing discoloration and weakening the material over time. Plaster surfaces can also become etched or discolored.
This damage isn’t usually immediate but occurs with repeated exposure. Over time, you’ll notice a decline in the appearance and integrity of your pool’s interior. Repairing these issues can be expensive and time-consuming.
Ineffective Sanitization
Shocking your pool is about raising the chlorine level throughout the entire water volume. When you put shock in the skimmer, it dissolves slowly and unevenly. Much of it might get filtered out before it has a chance to properly sanitize the pool water.
This means you might be using more shock than necessary without achieving the desired sanitizing effect. You’ll end up with concentrated chemical damage in one area and still have a pool that isn’t properly treated. This is a lose-lose situation for your pool.
Correct Methods for Shocking Your Pool
Fortunately, there are safe and effective ways to shock your pool. These methods ensure proper dispersion and minimize the risk of damage to your pool and equipment. Always read and follow the specific instructions on your pool shock product’s packaging.
Dissolving Granular Shock
This is the most common method for granular shock products. You’ll need a clean bucket and some pool water.
- Fill a bucket with about 5 gallons of pool water.
- Add the granular shock to the water, not the other way around. Stir gently until dissolved.
- Circulate your pool pump to ensure good water movement.
- Slowly pour the dissolved shock mixture around the perimeter of the pool, especially in the deep end. Avoid pouring directly onto metal ladders or fixtures.
- Allow the pump to run for at least 8-12 hours, or overnight, to fully circulate the treated water.
Using Liquid Shock
Liquid shock (sodium hypochlorite) is already in a dissolved form, making it easier to use. However, it’s still important to add it correctly.
- Ensure your pool pump is running.
- Slowly pour the liquid shock directly into the pool water, distributing it evenly around the edges.
- Avoid pouring it near skimmers or returns to prevent concentrated contact with equipment.
- Let the pump run for several hours to circulate the treated water.
Using Tablet Shock (Less Common)
Some products come in tablet form designed for slow release. These are typically placed in a floating dispenser or a dedicated slow-release feeder. They are not meant to be placed in the skimmer basket.
People Also Ask
### Can I put chlorine tablets in the skimmer?
While it’s more common to put chlorine tablets in a skimmer than granular shock, it’s still not the recommended practice. Tablets can still degrade plastic components over time and cause uneven chlorination. A floating dispenser or an automatic chlorinator is a much safer and more effective way to dispense chlorine tablets.
### How long should I run my pool pump after shocking?
After shocking your pool, you should run your pool pump for at least 8-12 hours, and ideally overnight. This ensures the shock is thoroughly mixed and distributed throughout the entire pool water volume, allowing it to effectively sanitize the water and break down contaminants.
### What happens if I put shock in the skimmer?
If you put pool shock directly in the skimmer, the concentrated chemicals can damage your skimmer basket, pump, filter, and pool surfaces like liners or plaster. It also leads to uneven sanitization, meaning your pool may not get properly shocked despite the chemical being added.
### How do I dissolve pool shock?
To dissolve pool shock, fill a clean bucket with pool water first, then slowly add the granular shock product to the water while stirring gently. Never add water to shock. Once fully dissolved, you can pour the mixture around the pool’s edge.
When to Shock Your Pool
Knowing when to shock your pool is as important as knowing how to do it. Regular shocking helps maintain water clarity and hygiene.
- After heavy use: If you’ve had a lot of swimmers, especially children, shock your pool to kill any introduced contaminants.
- After algae bloom: Shocking is crucial for eradicating algae and restoring water clarity.
- After heavy rain or storms: Debris and contaminants can enter the pool, requiring a shock treatment.
- When water is cloudy: Persistent cloudiness can indicate a need for a shock treatment to kill organic matter.
- As part of regular maintenance: Many pool owners shock their pools weekly or bi-weekly during the swimming season.