When measuring the chlorine value in a private pool, it is the ”free chlorine” value that is most important. Free chlorine is the amount of active chlorine remaining in the pool water. In other words, it is the amount of chlorine that will be available to disinfect the water when subsequent impurities enter the water. The correct amount of free chlorine will ensure that the water stays fresh and disinfected.
When performing a chlorine shock treatment, the chlorine value of the water increases significantly, which provides a ”basic disinfection” of the pool water. The pool should not be used until the free chlorine value has fallen below a maximum 5 mg/litre. The chlorine value of the water will naturally decrease between additions. This means that it is a good idea to test the pool water towards the end of the day and to add chlorine as needed. This way, the water will often be ready for the first use the following morning.
How active oxygen works as a disinfectant
The product OxyChock is an active oxygen granulate which separates off active oxygen when dissolved in water. The high oxygen content is what kills bacteria in the water. However, it dissipates from the water quite quickly. After just 4 hours it will hardly be measurable in the water. This means that it needs to be added more often than chlorine. On the other hand, the pool can be used relatively soon after addition and shock treatment.
Together with OxyChock (Article 1784), we always recommend using Aktivator (Article 1735), which significant extends and increases the disinfection effect of active oxygen.
The chlorine-free disinfection method is effective in the short term. Within a couple of weeks, however, microorganisms and bacteria which chlorine-free water care products are unable to combat, can start developing in the water. Especially during warmer periods, this means that you should also carefully disinfect the water with a chlorine shock treatment every 2 weeks, which is guaranteed to stop any early onset algae and bacteria accumulation in the pool water. Active oxygen and Chlorine are compatible - this means that you can use both chlorine and active oxygen in the pool water. You can postpone using the pool until the chlorine smell has disappeared from the pool water if you do not like bathing in chlorinated water.
Can I use the water to water my garden later?
When you no longer wish to use the pool, we recommend that you direct the water to the house drains so that it can go to the treatment facility.
Concentrated chlorine products must not be disposed off via the drains, but should be handed in to the recycling station in its original packaging.
NOTE
Regardless of the disinfection method used, it is always a good idea to shower before entering the pool to rinse dirt, soap residue and make-up off yourself and your bathing costume. Read more about our solar showers here.
Enjoy the water!