Question 1: How many tablets do I need for my pool?
If you’ve got standard chlorine tablets (200g each), you’ll need one tablet per 20,000 litres. So for a pool that contains 60,000 litres of water, you’ll need 3 tablets every week to keep it sanitised. To be on the safe side, we recommend testing your water balance regularly and adding tablets as necessary.
Question 2: Can I put chlorine tablets directly in the pool?
We don’t advise putting chlorine tablets directly in your pool. They’ll sink to the bottom and the concentrated levels of chlorine will damage pool surfaces or equipment. What’s more, loose tablets are unsafe for swimmers. They may accidentally step on them and experience burning or discomfort. For best results, use one of the methods we’ve outlined above.
Question 3: How long after adding chlorine tablets can I swim in the pool?
Because tablets dissolve very slowly, just make sure the filtration system has been running for a while (i.e. you’ve had at least one full cycle) and that chlorine levels are within range before you dive in. If you’ve got a floating dispenser, remove it before swimming. The chlorine levels around it could be higher and irritate swimmers. Also, it could be used as a toy by children or dogs.
Question 4: How long does it take for a chlorine tablet to dissolve?
It all depends on the size of your chlorine tablets. Standard tablets (200g) can take about 5 to 7 days to fully dissolve. Some factors that affect the rate of dissolution are the method of application (floating dispensers are slower), how often you run your pool pump (more circulation helps dissolve it) and chlorinator settings.
Question 5: Why are my chlorine tablets not dissolving?
Depending on your application method, there are a few reasons why your chlorine tablet might not be dissolving. First, if your filtration system is off, you may not be getting enough water flow to break down your tablets. Make sure it runs for at least 8 hours a day for best results. If you have an automatic chlorinator, you may have the wrong setting on your output dial, or your control valve may be clogged, preventing water from flowing into the chlorinator. If that’s the case, contact a pool technician for advice and service.
Question 6: Can I break down the tablets to make them dissolve faster?
It’s best to keep the tablets intact as they’re designed to release the chlorine slowly. If you break them up, the high concentrations of chlorine may be dangerous for swimmers.
Question 7: Can you use chlorine tablets to shock a pool?
Chlorine tablets aren’t designed to shock a pool. The chlorine levels are too low and they’re released too slowly. Pool shock needs to be concentrated and fast, or algae and bacteria will multiply quickly and make your pool cloudy. Instead of chlorine tablets, use Liquid Chlorine or Ultra Shock.
Takeaways
For pool owners who find liquid chlorine difficult or unpleasant to handle, chlorine tablets are a safe, affordable and mess-free way to keep your pool sanitised. By using one of our application methods – and checking your water balance regularly – you’ll be able to save time, effort and money over the long run. Here’s what you need to remember:
- If you’re using a floating dispenser, keep it away from ladders or pool toys and refill it every week (unless you’ve got a Multi-Action Chlorine Floater, in which case replace it every 2-3 weeks).
- If you have an automatic chlorinator, your job is easy! Just put multiple tablets inside the compartment and let the unit do all the work!
Ready to sanitise your pool with minimal effort and maximum results? Then head to your nearest retailer to select from our range of chlorine tablets and dispensers. If you want to know more about pool care, check out our Pool Tips.