Proper chemicals and regular pool cleaning can keep the pool clean and healthy. So, a common question we get asked by pool owners is whether they should vacuum their pool before adding shock. The answer, briefly, is yes—and here’s why.
The Importance of Vacuuming Your Pool Before Shocking
Remove as much debris and dirt as possible before adding shock to your pool. A robot pool cleaner — or pool vacuum — helps straightforward organic matter, algae, and leaves that would otherwise reduce the effectiveness of the chlorine before it sanitizes the water. If the pool is dirty before shocking, the chlorine may work ineffectively, resulting in hazy water and more prolonged sanitation problems.
How to Properly Prep Your Pool Before Shock
Skim the Surface
Skim floating debris with a skimmer or skimmer pool tool.
Cleaning the skimmer basket to keep it filtering correctly.
Vacuum the Pool
Use a robotic vacuum or pool cleaner to remove debris and algae from the bottom and walls.
For example, a robot pool cleaner like the Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra can efficiently scrub surfaces for you before you add shock.
If your pool is very algae-ridden, using a pool vacuum for algae helps remove the algae before shocking it.
Scrub the Walls and Floor of the Pool
Algae and dirt stick to surfaces, so a wall climbing pool cleaner or a manual brush loosens debris.
Be especially attentive to corners and where your steps lead up and down, as buildup often occurs there.
Order the Chemistry of the Pool
First, test your pool water’s pH and alkalinity levels before shocking.
For effective shock treatment, your pH should be between 7.2 and 7.6.
Adding Shock to Your Pool
Once done vacuuming and brushing your pool, you can follow the steps below to apply shock correctly:
Selecting the Correct Shock Type
Cyanuric Acid – Used primarily for on-site water.
Sodium Dichlor – Stabilized chlorine shock.
Non-Chlorine Shock – This is for maintenance and quick turnaround of pool use.
Dissolve the Shock (If You Need To)
Some Mix in a bucket of water before adding shocks.
Distribute Evenly
Pour the shock as you walk around the pool, which will help facilitate even diffusion.
Allow the pump and filtration system to run to circulate the chemicals properly.
Wait Before Swimming
Check manufacturer instructions for when it is safe to swim again.
Usually, wait at least 8-12 hours before entering the pool again.
Should You Get a Pool Booster Pump?
If your pool does not have proper circulation, your booster pump will be your companion to make all that water flow! — your pool vacuum robot, pool cleaner, maytronics pool, etc.
Conclusion
Vacuuming Before Shocking Your Pool — The Most Important Step For Maintaining Crystal Clear Pool Water Product Information: Of course, if you want even easier and more effective pool maintenance than manual cleaning, there are robot pool cleaners like the Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra, Beatbot AquaSense 2 Pro or Beatbot AquaSense 2. By taking these steps, you’ll ensure your pool is safe and inviting all season long.
