How to Use Pool Chlorine Tablets

Pool chlorine tablets are a simple way to keep your pool clean and maintain a safe pool pH balance. Add tablets to a floating dispenser, and let it keep the water conditioned as it floats around the pool. As long as you don't use broken or crushed tablets, and don't allow the tablets to sink freely to the bottom, you probably won't have any problems with chlorinated pool tablets.

Step 1 - Calculate the Pool Volume

Figuring out the gallon capacity of your pool is necessary when trying to determine the size and frequency of adding chlorine tablets. The calculations are simple, but they vary according to the shape of the pool.

A rectangular pool is calculated with this formula: L x W x D x 7.5. The total length is multiplied by the width, and that number is multiplied by the average depth. Convert the volume into gallons by multiplying the final answer by 7.5. For a circular or oval pool, the formula is C x D x 5.9. C is the circumference of the measurement around the outside of the pool. Multiply that number by the average depth, and then convert it into a liquid volume by multiplying the result by 5.9.

Step 2 - Choose Chlorine Tablets

There are two sizes of chlorine tablets: one-inch and three-inch. Unless you have an extremely small pool, the size of the tablet will depend on the type and size of the dispenser. For small pools, the one-inch tablet is generally sufficient. Dispensers may hold one or more tablets. Some tablets dissolve faster than others and need to be replaced more frequently, and you can also get tablets with neutralizing agents to maintain pool pH at the same time.

Step 3 - Understand Why You Need a Dispenser

A typical chlorine dispenser is a floating object with a small cup or bowl that has small holes, allowing water to flow through it. Without the dispenser, a chlorine tablet will cause fading of plastic pool liners and may get sucked into the drain where it is quickly dissolved, wasting much of the chemical and causing a severe imbalance in your pool. Buying or making a pool chlorine dispenser will save you a great deal of time, trouble, and expense.

Step 4 - Test the Water Frequently

Each size and brand of chlorine tablet has slightly different specifications than the others, so be sure to read the package for the proper treatment of your pool. In most cases, allowing the tablet to dissolve naturally and then simply replacing it with a new one is all you have to do, but it is a good idea to test your water often, just to make sure that it is staying in a safe range.

Pool chlorine content should be around two parts per million, but anywhere between one and three parts per million is acceptable. If the pool goes beyond that, remove the dispenser for a few days. Chlorine will slowly evaporate out of the water.