Adding chemicals to your swimming pool or spa is an important part of keeping the water clean and balanced. But how long do you need to wait before it’s safe to take a dip? Depending on the type of chemicals you add, the waiting time can range from a few hours to a full day. Keep reading to learn more about how long you need to wait before swimming in treated water.
Why Do You Need to Add Chemicals to Your Swim Spa or Pool?
Chemicals are added to pools and spas to kill bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause illness. In addition, chemicals keep the water clear by removing dirt, debris, and organic matter. There are a variety of different chemicals used in pools and spas, including sanitizers, pH adjusters, clarifiers, and more. To figure out what chemicals to add and the approximate amount you’d need, you should first determine the pH levels of your pool or spa using testing kits or strips. The recommended range is between 7.2 to 7.8. If your pool doesn’t meet these levels, the water might be too alkaline or too acidic, which can cause harm to your swimming unit. When you check the water levels regularly and proactively at least once a week, you can steer clear of potential problems in the future. You’ll be able to adjust the chemical balance as soon as possible to enjoy your pool or spa worry-free.
How Long Do You Have to Wait Before Swimming?
Now that you know why it’s important to add chemicals to your pool or spa, you might be wondering how long you need to wait before swimming. The answer depends on the type of chemical you’re using. For example, if you’re adding a significant amount of chlorine to shock the water in your pool or spa, it may take up to 24 hours before it’s safe to use. An important side note: shocking the water with chlorine should be done as soon as you notice murkiness and other signs of algae. By letting the chlorine settle for at least a day, you can be sure that the water is cleared up and that there are no remaining signs of algae left. Sanitizers that are not as strong as chlorine will only need a couple of hours to settle. Even if most of them are chlorine-based, the waiting time is significantly less versus pure chlorine.
Calcium Chloride is another chemical that’s widely used for maintaining water balance in swim spas and pools. When calcium hardness becomes too low, it can have a negative impact on the condition of the running parts of your swimming unit. By adding calcium chloride, you’ll be able to make sure that the water’s calcium hardness levels are within the ideal range. Even though the waiting times for different chemicals may vary according to their types and brands, a good rule of thumb for most of them would be to wait at least 20 minutes to an hour before jumping in the water.
Other Tips to Keep In Mind
In addition to waiting the appropriate amount of time after adding chemicals to your pool or spa, there are a few other things you should keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming experience. First, always ensure that you’re using the right type and amount of chemicals for your pool or spa. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult with a professional. It’s also good to always store chemicals in a cool, dry place where children and pets can’t reach them. Also, ensure you’re following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when adding chemicals to your pool or spa.
Another thing to remember is that you shouldn’t mix different types of chemicals together without doing proper research. If you need to use more than one type of chemical and are not sure which ones can be used together, add them to the water separately and at different times. Treating the water with chemicals is an important part of maintenance for your pool or spa, but ensure you’re doing so safely. By following simple guidelines and waiting the appropriate amount of time, you can be sure that your pool or spa is safe for everyone to enjoy.
For more information about water balance and the chemicals you need at home, it’s best to contact a spa or pool dealer near you. If you’d like to learn more about finding the perfect swim spa or pool for you and your loved ones, download our free buyer’s guide today.