Pool shock is the chemical used when ‘shocking’ a pool to quickly kill pool bacteria and fungus. Pool shock is nothing more than chlorine for most systems, but alternative shock chemicals exist for those using chlorine alternatives. The process of shocking the pool is simply pouring in large amounts of chemical to kill everything off, then returning the pool to proper chlorine (chemical) maintenance levels.

When it comes to shocking the pool, there are some general things pool owners want to know.

The first thing they ask is how to shock a pool.

Good question, because knowing how to shock a pool right is essential to safety and accomplishing pool cleaning goals.

Basic Steps To Shock A Pool

There are three basic steps to shocking a pool.

First, purchase shock products appropriate for your filter and chemical system. Pinch a penny pool shock is one reputable manufacturer of shock products. There are many other good names as well; ask your pool supplier for more.
Next, determine the amount of shock for your size pool and dissolve it as needed according to manufacturer directions. Broadcast evenly around an above ground pool, or in the deep end of an inground pool.
Distribute shock treatment using a manual pool skimmer.

Note that the filter should be turned off during shock broadcasting, and for ten hours after so the shock has a chance to work.

Tips, Tricks, And Frequently Asked Questions

Can I shock and vacuum the pool at the same time?

Short answer - no. It’s a wasted shock effort. Let the shock have a chance to work, then vacuum the debris and dead organisms the next morning.

How much shock and algaecide to winterize the pool?

It’s all dependent on the size of your pool and type of product you buy. Consult the manufacturer’s label on your shock and algaecide products. Read your pool care instructions. It will give you some idea as well.

What directions to shock an 8000 gallon pool (or 5,000...10,000...) can you give me?

The process is essentially the same. What differs is how much shock product is used, and again, that depends on the size of your pool and the chemical. If you don’t know how many gallons your pool holds, pool professionals can help you determine that with a simple formula using your pool’s dimensions (your pool instruction manual will list the information, too).

These are some of the more common pool shock quandaries. To learn more, read online further or talk to your pool dealer. One last note of importance - before a tragic accident occurs, read all product instructions and learn procedures for first aid for pool shock chemicals. It, too, will vary depending upon the chemical you are using, but it is information you want to be well versed in ahead of time, just in case.