Types Of Swimming Pool Chemicals

By Author: Lucy Carter
Total Articles: 100
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Swimming pool chemicals are disinfectants and sanitizers which serve to limit the growth of specific kinds of algae and bacteria in pool water. They're also used in hot tubs, whirlpools, wading pools and spas.

Although there are many different kinds of disinfectants and sanitizers, the chlorine type is most often used. "Chlorinating agents" are dissolved in the water and release chlorine. In large pools chlorine gas may be used.

Chlorine-based disinfectants go by names such as "chlorinating liquid", "liquid chlorine" and "dry chlorine". "Dry chlorine" comes in the form of granules or tablets while "chlorinating liquid" and "liquid chlorine" are chemical solutions dissolved in water.

The two principal kinds of chlorinating agents are inorganic chlorinating agents and organic chlorinating agents. The inorganic kinds include calcium hypochlorite, lithium hypochlorite and sodium hypochlorite. Among the organic types are trichloroisocyanuric acid, potassium dichloroisocyanurate and sodium dichlorocyanurate (as anhydrous or dihydrate forms).

Inorganic and organic chlorinating agents are not compatible ...
... and must not be mixed. The same scoop or pail should never be used for both chemicals without cleaning them first, and the chemicals should never be added one after the other or in the pool chlorinator. Mixing or cross-contaminating these chemicals can cause an explosion.

A great deal of care must be used when handling and storing swimming pool chemicals because they can act as oxidizers and corrosives. Oxidizing substances (like calcium hypochlorite) can chemically react to oxidize combustible materials (materials that can be burned). The oxidizing substance provides oxygen that combines chemically with another material in a manner that raises the chances of a fire or explosion. The reaction could spontaneously occur at room temperature or with a small amount of heat. For this reason oxidizing substances, both liquids and solids, can pose severe fire and explosion risks.

Some pool chemicals can act as corrosives, as well. Corrosive substances destroy body tissues upon contact and can also be damaging to metals. The effect they have on tissues and metals depends on the corrosive agent itself and its concentration. As soon as they touch the skin, eyes, digestive tract, respiratory tract or metal, the chemicals can cause damage. Consult the material safety data sheets or product labels to find out the effects of a specific chemical and for guidance on what to do in case contact occurs.
Francesca Bailey is the manager of 1st Direct, leading providers of swimming pool chemicals, parts, pumps, and covers.