Sodium Hypochlorite

Sodium hypochlorite is a liquid form of chlorine that is 12-15 percent available chlorine and is often referred to as liquid chlorine or just bleach. Sodium hypochlorite is similar to household bleach, but over-the-counter bleach should not be used as a primary sanitizer in your swimming pool. Household bleach is only 5-6 percent active chlorine, and, because of all the inert material in bleach, can clog the filter media. You can use household bleach only to tide you over until you can get to Proline Distributors for the real stuff. Perhaps the greatest advantage of sodium hypochlorite is that it is easy and safe to handle and store. The major disadvantage is that it has a short shelf life and is very unstable, so its disinfectant properties diminish quickly in sunlight and at high temperatures.

Sodium hypochlorite also significantly increases the pH of the water. When sodium hypochlorite is used, it must be counterbalanced by a strong acid like sodium bisulfate or muriatric acid to keep the pH within the ideal range. When handling sodium hypochlorite and acids, be certain to wear gloves and a face shield for protection. Sodium hypochlorite is introduced to the pool by a chemical feeder (pump.) Chemical feeders tend to clog often, so it's important to clean the feeder regularly.

Water Chemistry • Popular Disinfectants • Chorine • Calcium Hypochorite • Sodium Hypochlorite • Stabilized Chlorines •
Bromine • Other Disinfectants • Water Balance • pH • Total Alkalinity • Calcium Hardness • Total Dissolved Solids •
Balancing Pool Water • Water Testing • Pool Vacs & Sweepers •

Pool Maintenance • Daily Chores • Weekly Chores • Solving Common Problems • Cloudy, Milky Water • Malodorous, Irritating Water
Green Water • Red or Brown Water • Blue - Green Water • Blue or Black Water • Pump Problems • Sand in Pool •
Excessive Water Loss • Excessive Foaming