The 6 Best Pool Shock Treatments of 2023
To swim in clean, clear, pleasant-appearing water in your backyard pool, you need to make pool shock treatments part of your pool maintenance routine. This step ensures that your pool has the right balance of chemicals to keep contaminants from overtaking your water while eliminating chloramines: chemicals created when ammonia is added to chlorine.
Summary of items we will discuss in this buying guide :
HTH Pool Care Shock Advanced Pool Care Shock Advanced
Clorox Pool & Spa XtraBlue Shock
Champion Pool Shock
DryTec Calcium Hypochlorite Chlorine Shock Treatment
In The Swim Sodium Di-Chlor Chlorine Granular Pool Shock
EcoOne OneShock Spa & Swimming Pool Tablets
Our top picks :
HTH Pool Care Shock Advanced Pool Care Shock Advanced
Keep your water safe and swim-ready with the help of HTH Pool Care Shock Advanced. This popular pool shock treatment uses calcium hypochlorite (cal-hypo), a bleaching agent and disinfectant. Depending on your water chemistry, we recommend this pool shock because it can be used in chlorine, saltwater, and bromine pools, and it contributes to clear water while eliminating chloramines, bacteria, and algae.
Clorox Pool & Spa XtraBlue Shock
An algae bloom is one reason why you may need to use pool shock, since pool algae can grow quickly, leaving a furry trail of green, black, or yellow slime on the surface of your pool steps or in the corners—basically anywhere water circulation may be more limited. Clorox Pool & Spa XtraBlue Shock is an effective and popular treatment option that targets common algae species while eliminating bacteria and chloramines. Since this pool shock uses a stabilized form of chlorine, it may increase CYA levels.
Champion Pool Shock
Liquid chlorine is a simple and economical way to shock your pool. If you go this route, we recommend Champion Pool Shock. It is ready-to-use, meaning you don’t have to do any poolside mixing before treating your water. You have your choice of pouring it directly into the pool or distributing it through a dosing pool pump.
DryTec Calcium Hypochlorite Chlorine Shock Treatment
Calcium hypochlorite is often used as an active ingredient in pool shock formulas. Most commonly referred to as cal-hypo shock, it’s a popular pick because of its ease of use and affordability. DryTec Shock Treatment is a great option to consider if you want a granular pool shock. Plus, it contains no stabilizer, so it shouldn't contribute to a buildup of cyanuric acid, which can render the chlorine in your swimming pool ineffective.
In The Swim Sodium Di-Chlor Chlorine Granular Pool Shock
We like sodium di-chlor products because, generally, they are easy to use, dissolve fast, and don't alter the pH balance of your pool. We recommend In the Swim Sodium Di-Chlor product because it contains 99 percent sodium di-chlor, with 56 percent available chlorine. Also, this product contains no calcium, avoiding cloudy water, as well as unsightly buildup on pool surfaces. We have noted that this product is as effective on above-ground pools as in-ground pools, and also can be used with spas and even fountains. The manufacturer says 1 pound of product effectively treats 10,000 gallons of pool water. Or use 2 pounds if applying as an algicide until the algae are all dead and vacuumed out.
EcoOne OneShock Spa & Swimming Pool Tablets
The convenience of using a pre-measured tablet is hard to beat, so you may want to consider a similar option to shock your pool. We recommend EcoOne OneShock Spa & Swimming Pool Tablets, which are convenient to use and dissolve quickly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, maintaining a crystal-clear pool is effortless with the 6 best pool shock treatments featured in this guide. As you embark on the journey to select the optimal shock treatment for your pool's needs, it's crucial to consider the following critical points before making a buying choice:
- Shock Treatment Type and Purpose:
- Determine the type and purpose of the shock treatment. Whether you need to address algae, bacteria, or simply boost chlorine levels, choosing a shock treatment specifically formulated for your pool's requirements ensures effective and targeted results.
- Chlorine Content and Strength:
- Assess the chlorine content and strength of the shock treatment. Opt for treatments with a suitable chlorine concentration to address your pool's current conditions, whether it's a routine shock or a more intensive treatment for stubborn issues.
- Compatibility with Pool Type:
- Check compatibility with your pool type. Different shock treatments are formulated for various pool surfaces, including vinyl, plaster, and fiberglass. Choosing the right treatment for your pool's material ensures optimal performance without causing damage.
- Fast-Dissolving Formula:
- Prioritize shock treatments with a fast-dissolving formula. Quick dissolvability allows for efficient distribution and rapid results, ensuring a hassle-free and time-saving pool maintenance experience.
- Multi-Functional Features:
- Explore shock treatments with multi-functional features. Some treatments not only sanitize the pool but also clarify the water, eliminate contaminants, and stabilize chlorine levels. Choosing a multi-functional shock treatment can streamline your pool maintenance routine.
- Residue-Free and Non-Staining:
- Ensure that the shock treatment leaves no residue or stains. Opt for treatments that dissolve completely, leaving your pool water clear and free of any unwanted byproducts that may affect water quality or pool surfaces.
- Packaging and Storage:
- Consider the packaging and storage of the shock treatment. Choose treatments that come in convenient and secure packaging to prevent spillage or deterioration. A well-packaged product ensures the longevity and effectiveness of the shock treatment.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews:
- Research the brand reputation and read customer reviews. Feedback from other pool owners provides valuable insights into the performance, reliability, and overall satisfaction with the chosen shock treatment.
- Application Method:
- Assess the application method of the shock treatment. Whether it's a granular, liquid, or powder form, selecting a treatment that aligns with your preferred application method ensures ease of use and precise dosing.
- Budget and Value for Money:
- Determine your budget and seek value for money. The best pool shock treatments offer a balance between affordability and effectiveness, ensuring that you can maintain a pristine pool without compromising on quality.
By keeping these critical points in mind, you can confidently choose the best pool shock treatment that aligns with your pool maintenance goals. The 6 featured shock treatments not only excel in these aspects but also provide a variety of options to suit different pool sizes, types, and maintenance requirements. Dive into a pool maintenance routine with confidence, knowing that the chosen shock treatment will keep your pool water clear, sanitized, and inviting throughout the swimming season.