How to Handle the Chlorine Shortage
Just when you thought you didn’t have to hear the word “unprecedented” again, pool owners face it once more. This time, it’s an unprecedented shortage of chlorine.
But this shortage doesn’t necessarily mean you have to close your pool early and sweat out the final weeks of summer. In this article, we will explore why there’s a chlorine shortage, and some alternatives to consider to keep your pool clean and safe.
Why Is There a Chlorine Shortage?
Pool owners have never experienced such a widespread shortage before, and we can blame it on a few different things:
- The Covid-19 Pandemic
During the pandemic, many facilities closed or drastically limited staff due to quarantining. This meant less chlorine was produced and available to buy.
- Plant Fire
To make matters worse, a major fire at one of the top production plants in the United States halted production and destroyed product.
- Increased Pool Usage
Because of the pandemic, people have spent more time at home, canceling vacations, and avoiding public pools. Because of this, we’ve seen record numbers for pool installations. This increased usage means more chlorine is needed to accommodate the additional pools.
All these factors have played a part in driving up the price of chlorine while driving down the amount that’s available for pool owners.
But don’t drain your pool just yet. There are some alternatives you can consider to keep your pool clean and usable for these last weeks of summer!
Chlorine Alternatives Your Pool May Need
To keep your pool clean and clear, here are some alternatives:
1. Bromine
Like chlorine, bromine is a sanitizing chemical that will kill algae and all the other stuff that shouldn’t be in your pool. Bromide usually arrives to customers powdered with specific directions about how much to use for your pool size. Before you use it, however, you’ll need to test the pH balance, getting it to 80-120 total alkalinity. Your bromine concentration should be at least 80 parts per million, and you can periodically use a small amount of household bleach to freshen it up.
2. Copper and Silver Ionization Systems
These chlorine-free systems use copper and silver electrodes to sanitize your pool. Copper, with its natural antibacterial properties, comprises 90% - 97% of the electrodes, and silver makes up the rest. When the system is turned on, the device generates metallic ions that are released into the water. These ions then disrupt the enzyme balance of algae and also curb the growth of bacteria in the water. One of the best parts is that it is perfectly healthy for humans and the environment and produces no residues or harmful byproducts.
3. UV Light
UV light is capable of killing many different pathogens including algae, bacteria, and viruses. It works by sending water from the pool’s filter through the UV system where it’s sanitized and then circulates out into the pool. If you are able to get your hands on some chlorine, it is recommended that you use a small amount with this system. This is because UV systems can’t oxidize water, so organic debris like dead cells aren’t removed from the pool water.
4. Salt Water
The term “saltwater pool” is a little misleading, as these pools do use a little bit of chlorine. These pools work by salting the water and using a generator to turn that salt into chlorine through a chemical reaction. This is done at a slow rate, and the result is a slightly salty, gently chlorinated and a 100% safe pool.
What Pool Owners Should Know
While bromine is the only alternative to buying a new system, you may want to consider whether this shortage is just a thing that will affect 2021 or not. To discuss chlorine alternatives with a pool expert, contact Spartan Pool and Patio today. Together we can make sure your pool is clean and enjoyable for the hot weeks ahead.
