To keep your pool in perfect condition, it’s essential to add certain chemicals to the water, such as chlorine, flocculant, or algaecide, periodically. Unless, of course, you’ve opted for a more natural solution like salt chlorination . If not, one of the important factors to consider is the time of day to add these products. Is it better to do it during the day or at night? Before or after swimming? Keep reading if you’re interested in learning the best time of day to add chemicals to your pool.
MORNING OR NIGHT?
First of all, it’s important to note that adding chemicals at any time of day is safe, but with some nuances that we’ll discuss now. Generally, it’s recommended to add chemicals first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon . This is because the sun and heat can affect the effectiveness of the chemicals, and the pool water needs time to distribute them properly.
Adding them first thing in the morning is an excellent option because the sunlight isn’t yet very strong. This means the chemicals have more time to work before intense UV rays can affect them, as in the case of chlorine, which would accelerate the chemical reaction or cause it to evaporate. Additionally, the water is cooler in the morning, which can make the chemicals more effective.
Adding the chemicals at night is also a good idea, because we benefit from zero UV radiation and many hours of inactivity for them to stabilize properly in the water.
In addition, it is recommended that the water temperature not be too cold or too hot for better product performance: ideally it should be in a range between 15 and 25ºC .
BEFORE OR AFTER BATHING?
This is another important factor. For example, if you use your pool frequently during the day, it’s probably best to add the chemicals at night so they have enough time to disperse before you enter the water again. If you add them during the day and enter the pool too soon, it can cause skin and eye irritation, or respiratory problems if the chemicals are inhaled.
EACH PRODUCT IN ITS DUE TIME
If you’re adding multiple chemicals at once, it’s important to do so at different times . This allows each chemical time to properly mix with the water before adding the next. Adding several chemicals simultaneously can cause them to mix incorrectly and reduce their effectiveness. Also, make sure the pump and filter are running when you add the chemicals, as otherwise they may accumulate in certain areas and not disperse properly.
Now you know the best time of day to add chemicals to your pool!
