Let’s face it, shocking the pool every week seems like a Herculean task, and I can totally relate. However, prioritizing pool cleanliness is highly crucial.
If you have a pool that is regularly used by kids and family members in the house, shocking is needed. Now ideally, you should do it once a week or every 2 weeks, preventing the algae from growing. In this way, the water will remain safe for use at all times.
Initially, I had little knowledge about this, but my friend Angie told me all about how to look for the best pool shock. Hi! I am Stacy Smith, and today I will tell you all about the best pool shocks on the market. I have also added a buyer’s guide and a FAQ section at the end to help you.
So, without further ado, let’s get started.
Top 5 Pool Shock
1. HTH 52026
One of my top recommendations is the HTH 52026, which is known for its efficient cleaning power. Your pool water will look crystal clear, and you can enjoy it throughout the year. Read on to learn more about the bells and whistles.
Product Highlights
This product is compatible with pool water of all kinds, and you can use it for any pool. Just apply it to the water directly and let it stay in there for the next 24 hours.
The chlorine level of the water will immediately be increased, and that would kill off the algae and bacteria. I will advise you to do this every week so that the water stays healthy and clean.
The 4 -in-1 formula will stabilize your pool and will never lead to extreme levels of chlorine. You will enjoy the crystal clear water every time you dive in, and rest assured that there will be no impurities. Moreover, you will be able to maintain the chlorine level at 1 to 4 ppm.
Also, this product consists of 12 1-lb bags of the treatment material that should last for a long while.
What’s There To Like About It?
I was very scared of hazardous contaminants being present in the water, especially when the neighborhood kids came to swim. Thankfully, this formula will keep the chlorine level stable in every pool where the water gets affected by rain and the sun.
Plus, you can remove black, green, and mustard algae together with this one formula. Meaning, it will work well for those who do not replace the water very frequently.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
While this is not a drawback, I should tell you that you will need to mix the formula with a bucket of water before pouring it into the pool. This will allow it to mix well, and you can then wait for a few minutes before using the pool. I always do this to prevent over-accumulation of the formula in any place.
Pros and Cons of HTH 52026
Pros
Cons
- THERE IS A NEWER MODEL OF THIS ITEM: HTH 52037 Swimming Pool Care Shock Advanced, Swimming Pool Chemical, Cal Hypo Formula (12 Pack)
- SEE BELOW FOR NEWER MODEL
2. Clorox Pool & Spa 33506CLX
If you are not a fan of the chlorine smell, then the Clorox Pool & Spa 33506CLX can be a brilliant addition. It will keep the water fresh and the smell away. My neighbors have been using it, and they love it.
Product Highlights
To begin with, this formula is multi-functional and will work very efficiently in filtering the water. It is equipped with algae fighting crystals, and they will help in keeping the algae and insects away from the water. You will be able to get rid of mustard, green, and black algae in one go, thanks to this product.
What’s more, you can get the pool ready within 15 minutes. The item works very quickly and will ensure that all the existing algae are dead before you jump into the water.
Moving on, a major drawback of chlorine is that the eyes experience irritation after a while. The brand has taken this into consideration and has made sure that your eyes do not keep burning. While you might still feel it, the irritation is much less.
What’s There To Like About It?
The pool was left unused for a while before I filled it again with water. Naturally, I was very afraid of the bacteria that could be in it. But this product helped in removing all the bacteria making the water safe for swimming or taking a dip.
Plus, it helps in improving the performance of the filter as the contaminants are killed or destroyed. That’s why the water does not become cloudy, making it highly beneficial.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
The only issue that I faced with this product was that the package could not be resealed. I would recommend transferring the contents to a resealable container in case you do not want to use all of it. So, purchase a container beforehand, and you should face no problem.
Pros and Cons of Clorox Pool & Spa 33506CLX
Pros
Cons
- Multi-functional pool shock with algae-fighting crystals
- Creates crystal clear water
- Kills and prevents green, black and mustard pool algae
3. DryTec 1-1901-24
Up next is another product that will work well for those with large pools. The DryTec 1-1901-24 weighs 24 pounds and comes in 1-pound packets, which can be used over a period of time.
Product Highlights
First of all, you will be getting a formula that dissolves in water without leaving any residue. Unlike some of its peers, you will not have to wait for a long time, as it acts fast and dissolves quickly. Moreover, the item has 68% calcium hypochlorite that may make it highly effective.
On the other hand, the shock treatment powder will treat large amounts of water at one go. Each pound can be used on 10,000 gallons of water; hence, you do not need to worry about covering large pools. Just determine the amount of water needed for your pool and use the product accordingly.
Moreover, it maintains the chlorine level between 7.2 and 7.6 ppm. Once you have applied it, leave it for around 30 minutes, and that should do the job.
What’s There To Like About It?
I had some green patches of algae in the water, and it had turned very cloudy. However, after adding the chlorine and letting it rest for a day, the water cleared up a lot, and the patches turned blue.
Also, I was very happy with the packaging as there were 24 individual packs in one box. You will not need to reseal any of them as they are single-use packs.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
The only problem is that it can take time to dissolve. You might have to use a brush to mix it well, and there might be white crystals visible on top, which will not leave any residue. But that should not be a problem if the pH level is stable. I will recommend checking the pool pH level after application to ensure that it is working properly.
Pros and Cons of DryTec 1-1901-24
Pros
Cons
- One bag of this product per 10,000 gallons of water
- Adjust and maintain pH at 7.2-7.6
- Maintain total alkalinity in the range of 60 to 120
4. In The Swim 25235 12X1
Another great option to remove organic contaminants from water is the In The Swim 25235 12X1. It offers powerful chlorine treatment that can be used to remove all the harmful bacteria, thereby keeping the water clean throughout.
Product Highlights
This product is made out of 68% calcium hypochlorite, which has quick sanitizing abilities. It can clean the water very quickly and will ensure that the effects stay for a week.
I will recommend using this every week to keep your pool protected. Remember that you need to shock the pool once in a while, and that would also take care of the germs that are not visible to the naked eye.
That’s not all; for those who need to clean the pool immediately, the brand offers shipping within 1 to 2 days. Hence, you can get your hands on the item within a short time.
Moreover, it is available in granular form, which needs to be dissolved in water. Once it dissolves, you will get complete protection from bacteria, algae blooms, microbes, and viruses.
What’s There To Like About It?
You can use this product inside vinyl, fiberglass, and painted pools, and that is a great advantage. All you will need to do is dissolve the product in a big bucket of water and then mix it in the pool. I will recommend using a 5-gallon bucket for the best results.
Additionally, I was very happy to find that all the green algae had been killed within 12 hours of application. Just use a pool vacuum, and your pool water should be crystal clear.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
While I had ordered a 12-pack product, I initially received only 6 packs. But the customer care representatives were very helpful, and they heard me out. I sent pictures of the product that was delivered, and a replacement was sent soon. Hence, I will not be holding it against the brand.
Pros and Cons of In The Swim 25235 12X1
Pros
Cons
- Fast-Acting Algae Control: Calcium Hypochlorite (Cal-Hypo) is an effective non-stabilized chlorine shock treatment, ideal for routine maintenance in your swimming pool
- Versatile Use: Suitable for above ground or in-ground swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs; Pre-dissolve or dilute to avoid bleaching the liner
- High Chlorine Content: 65% available chlorine, provides powerful sanitization for crystal-clear water
5. BioGuard 52728BIO
One of my final recommendations is the BioGuard 52728BIO. It helps in cleaning the water of all types of pools and is one of the easiest to use. You can purchase this 25-lb bag and then use it over time.
Product Highlights
To begin with, this is a quick-action formula that will show results within minutes. You can swim in the water after 15 minutes of application, and hence, this works well for common pools. Also, if you are in charge of maintaining a public or a family pool, then this will help you in clarifying it during the break hour.
Next, the product can shock a lot of water and is very cost-effective. Every pound can shock 12,000 gallons of water, and you can use it accordingly.
What’s more, you will get blue algae-fighting crystals that do not need to be premixed with the water. Just pour the required amount into the pool and wait for it to dissolve.
Moreover, I have noticed that the filtration system has been working well since I started the shock treatment. The water is cleaner, and that enables the filters to work better.
What’s There To Like About It?
I really liked how this product has multiple benefits, and you can buffer, shock, oxidize and clarify the water in the pool. It will work well in killing bacteria and germs, and I have not experienced any illness after swimming in the pool.
Furthermore, this item is very easy to use, and the lid can be easily opened. Open it and pour the required amount into the pool, which should do the job.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
When the product arrived initially, it had spilled because of bad packaging. However, when I called up customer care representatives to complain, they were very helpful and sent me a replacement immediately. You might have to send a picture of the pack for verification, and the job will be done.
Pros and Cons of BioGuard 52728BIO
Pros
Cons
- Multi-Purpose Pool Shock Treatment: BioGuard Smart Shock is a multi-functional product that shocks, oxidizes, buffers, and clarifies pool water. It enhances water clarity by removing particles and impurities for a sparkling and ready-to-swim pool.
- Blue Algae-Killing Crystals: Smart Shock contains unique blue algae-fighting crystals that kill unsightly algae and effectively prevent and control algae growth ensuring a clear and pristine pool.
- Prevents All Types of Algae: Experience comprehensive algae protection with our advanced formula and keep your pool clean and inviting with confidence, knowing that our solution provides reliable defense against any type of algae.
Buyers Guide
Now that you know about the best pool shocks in detail, it is time to look at the numerous features offered. Remember that every product is slightly different and will offer you a specific set of advantages.
You might need a larger pack, while your friend might require a more concentrated pack. It also depends on the weather condition that the place has.
Angie told me about all of the points in detail, and here I have listed them down. Read on to know more!
1. Quantity
What is the size of the pool like? If you have a big pool, then opting for a larger pack with around 24 individual mini packs would be a good option. It will be cost-effective while you can use each pack as per your requirements.
On the other hand, a small pool would not need too much of the chemical, and hence, you can opt for smaller packs. While making this decision, check if the packs are resealable. This is very important as a lot of the formula can be in a thin powder form that can blow away or become soggy if you do not take care.
In case the packs are large and not resealable, purchase separate resealable containers beforehand. You can then store the excess in there till the next time it is needed.
Angie suggested that it is best not to leave the powder for too long after you have opened the pack. Use it within the next 10 days, and you should not face any problems.
2. Mixing Ratio
Generally, 1-pound of the chemical will be perfect for 10,000 gallons of water. However, this might differ for some brands, and hence, it is best to check it out.
You would want to shock the water in such a way that everything in it is oxidized. That would help in killing harmful bacteria and germs.
Also, make sure that you do not mix more than the required amount, as that could be harmful to the skin later on. Use the right amount as mentioned on the pack, and you should not face any further problems.
3. Bacteria And Algae
While you may not be aware, there are a large number of bacteria that are invisible. These can be harmful if not destroyed and can make people ill if they spend too long in the water. Hence, the product that you choose should be able to kill bacteria along with algae.
Also, Angie said that there are different types of algae including green, and mustard to name a few. Check the form of algae that grows in your pool and ensure that the shock treatment can take care of it.
If you do not have a clear understanding, consult a pool expert and get expert advice about the type of algae, microbes, and viruses in your pool water. Then purchase a pool cleaner accordingly, and it should work out well.
4. Time Needed
While some treatment chemicals will work in 15 to 30 minutes, others might take up to 2-4 days to work well. In case you have a shortage of time and you need quick results, then opt for a quick-action formula, and they will do the job. But if it is a large pool and there is a lot of algae growth, you might require more time in dealing with it.
Also, you might need a pool cleaner or a robot vacuum to collect the dead algae. It is best to be prepared for it beforehand so that you can start using the treatment powder immediately.
Moreover, Angie suggested that I treat the water once every week to keep the pool in a healthy condition. If there is heavy rainfall, then it is best to add the chemical just after the rain stops. This would prevent the growth of new algae in the first place.
5. Unstabilized Vs. Stabilized Shock
Unstabilized shocking should technically be done only at night, as Angie mentioned. This is because the heat will easily dissipate it, and hence, it will not work in the daytime.
On the other hand, stabilized shock means that the formula contains sodium dichloride. The chlorine, in this case, is very well protected and will not be affected by UV rays or the sun.
This can be used in the morning or throughout the day without any hassle. Hence, be careful about what you are purchasing and check the package beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, I will be discussing some of the frequently asked questions, and this should help you find answers to all queries. So, read on!
Most of the powder or crystals will dissolve by themselves, and you do not have to work extra. However, some very concentrated formulas may need to be mixed with appropriate amounts of water before adding them to the pool.
Yes, shocking the pool can increase the chlorine levels to some extent. Too much chlorine is not good for humans, and hence, it is best to test the water before jumping in if you suspect concentrated levels of chlorine.
No, most treatment crystals will not leave any residue, and you can safely use them for your pools. However, you will need a vacuum to clean other forms of dirt and debris.
My Final Recommendations
The best pool shock should be effective for the long term and should have consistency in performance. Also, make sure that you have a good pool maintenance schedule in place. Angie warned me that if I do not keep shocking the pool, algae and bacterial growth is inevitable.Â
On this note, I will finally wrap up but before I leave, let me take you through my favorites. The HTH 52026 is my personal favorite for its brilliant performance. On the other hand, if you do not like the chlorine smell, then the Clorox Pool & Spa 33506CLX will work very well.Â
Also, the DryTec 1-1901-24 will be perfect for large pools. On that note, let me know about your favorites in the comment section below.Â
Until next time, bye!Â