What is the Proper Way to Add Shock to a Pool?

A triangular roof frame is much easier to rake leaves with than its vertical counterpart. If you have a robot pool cleaner, folks often ask how shocking the pool impacts its performance. Knowing how to add shock to a pool properly helps maintain crystal-clear water and ensures effective cleaning.

Reasons for Shocking Your Pool

Shocking a pool removes bacteria, algae, and other contaminants. Over time, chlorine efficiency diminishes when it comes into contact with organic matter, sunscreen, and sweat. Once pool shock is added, balance is restored, and the pool becomes safe for swimming again. However, specific steps must be taken to ensure that equipment such as a robotic pool cleaner or a skimmer is not damaged.

How to Properly Shock a Pool?

Choose the Right Pool Shock

Types of Pool Shock — There are several different types of pool shock:

Calcium Hypochlorite: They are potent, fast-acting, and ideal for deep cleaning.

Sodium Dichlor: Form of stabilized chlorine that dissolves quickly.

Non-Chlorine Shock: Ideal for regular upkeep.

Before Shocking, Test the Water

Check chlorine and pH levels with a water testing kit before adding shock. This controls the proper dosage and avoids over-shocking.

Turn On the Pool Pump

The pump helps you to circulate the shock around the pool evenly. If you can’t get the pump to operate, check out a tutorial on draining an inground pool without a pump for other methods.

Pre-Dissolve the Shock

With some pool shock products, pre-dissolving in a bucket of water avoids cloudiness and promotes even mixing. Always follow manufacturers’ instructions.

Add Shock to the Pool

Pour the shock slowly around the pool's edge, avoiding contact with pool surfaces. Placing the shock next to your skimmer will allow for better circulation.

Let it circulate for 6-8 hours.

Aftershock is added, leaving the pump running for 6-8 hours. During this period, refrain from working with the pool vacuum or pool vacuum robot to avoid damaging it due to the high chlorine.

Re-Test the Water

Test chlorine levels again after waiting. Wait longer before swimming if the chlorine level is too high.

Will A Robotic Pool Cleaner Pick Up Algae After Shocking?

If you have algae, you might ask yourself, will a pool robot pick up algae? A swimming pool robot cleaner like the Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra can help eliminate some debris, but before you leave it for automatic pool cleaning, you should give your water a shock and brush. Another good way is to use a pool vacuum specifically for algae.

Important — The following recommendations are based on personal experience.

Remove the wall climbing pool cleaner from the pool during shocking.

Do not shock during daylight hours to reduce chlorine loss from sunlight.

— Use a pool booster pump for filtration and circulation.

Conclusion

Shocking your pool correctly leaves the water clean and safe and protects your robot pool cleaner and other equipment. These steps will result in a sparkling pool and ensure the longevity of your cleaning robot. Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra, Beatbot AquaSense 2 Pro, and other quality products are worthwhile investments to keep your pool clean!