Liquid Shock vs. Powder Shock: Which One is Better?
Swimming pool shocking is a common technique to remove bacteria or algae and oxidize pool contaminants. Shocking also removes combined chlorine from the water.
Understanding the basics
Both liquid and powder shocks contain the same active chemical used for pool sanitation, but their usage and strength are different. Other than coming in a different form, liquid chlorine is also more budget-friendly and unstabilized. On the other hand, powder shock is easy to stabilize, and its solid form dissolves.
Stabilized vs. unstabilized chlorine
Stabilized chlorine is best for daily pool sanitation, and it lasts longer thanks to cyanuric acid. It’s usually available in tablet or powder form, and there are many ways to distribute it. Floating chlorine dispensers use tabs to distribute chemicals over time and hold chlorine for up to eight weeks. Automatic feeders work similarly, as they slowly mix the content with the water.
Unstabilized chlorine doesn’t contain cyanuric acid, and so it dissipates more quickly. It adds a larger chlorine dose and does a faster job of sanitizing the area after heavier use. It’s the quicker, highly concentrated way to kill bacteria and other water contaminants. After dispensing unstabilized chlorine into the pool, it’s best to refrain from using the area for 24 hours.
Liquid vs. powder shock similarities
Both liquid and powder shocks contain a higher chlorine concentration, and they both kill most microorganisms present in the water, including bacteria and other parasites. Finally, they’re capable of cleaning cloudy water and manage and prevent algae.
Liquid vs. powder shock differences
There are a few differences between the two types. Liquid chlorine leaves no residue and can be up to 80% less expensive. Also, it’s the most commonly used pool sanitation method. It’s available in refillable containers, and it doesn’t need dissolving as it’s a liquid.
On the other hand, powder shock is easier to carry and lasts longer. Some powder shocks can go directly into the pool, while others must be mixed with water first. After an application, you should immediately sweep out any leftover shock grains at the bottom of the pool.
Regardless of the type, shocking helps disinfect your pool. The choice mainly depends on how you will use the shock. Unstabilized chlorine may be better for indoor pools to avoid sun burn-offs. Either way, ensure that you read the instructions carefully, as these products are applied differently.
Get professional help to clean your swimming pool
If you need help selecting a shocking treatment for your pool, it’s best to contact a local pool cleaning company. They will know what to do to sanitize your pool and keep it safe for the whole family to enjoy.
Pool Tile Cleaning Vegas offers pool tile cleaning, calcium removal, acid washing, pool draining, and media blasting services, in Las Vegas and Henderson. Call us at (702)605-6936.
