To keep your pool clean and safe, there are four main categories of chemicals: sanitizers, oxidizers, algaecides, and ancillary products. These chemicals work together to achieve the “Three Ps” of pool care: preventing disease, protecting equipment, and providing a pleasant swimming environment.

Sanitizers are crucial in killing bacteria and preventing diseases in the pool. There are different types of sanitizers, such as chlorine and salt, but they all do the same thing: kill bacteria. Oxidizers, also known as shock products, complement sanitizers by breaking down and removing contaminants in the water. Algaecides are specifically designed to prevent or kill algae in the pool. Ancillary products, while not required for pool maintenance, can make pool care more efficient and save time and money.

Choosing the right products for a pool is essential for successful water quality management. Sanitizer choice can impact water balance, so it’s important to select the right type of sanitizer to minimize issues with cloudy water, scaling, and surface damage. Ultimately, by establishing a good pool care routine with the right products, pool owners can enjoy a safe and hygienic pool with happy swimmers.

It’s important to note that the different types of pool chemicals have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, and it’s essential to choose the right products for the specific needs of each pool. Trichlor is a popular form of sanitizer because of its ease of use and slow-dissolving nature, while calcium hypochlorite and liquid chlorine provide immediate dispersion but require more maintenance.

Balancers are another type of pool chemical that help to balance the pH and total alkalinity of the water, as well as adjust calcium hardness to prevent aggressive water or scaling. Balancing the water can lead to a more comfortable swimming environment, clear water, and functional pool equipment over time.

Overall, a good pool care routine involves a combination of sanitizers, oxidizers, algaecides, and ancillary products, along with proper circulation and filtration, to keep the pool clean, safe, and enjoyable for swimmers. By understanding the different types of pool chemicals and how they work, pool owners can create a successful pool care routine and enjoy a clear, hygienic pool. Read our recent warning about off label chlorine tablets here.

If you are interested in an automatic pool cover in Canada, contact us using the handy form below. We have installers around the country. You can even send us photos of your pool to help us better evaluate your needs and suggest pool cover options!