Chlorine and Covid-19

 Chlorine is used in many pools across America. After all, it is one of the most effective ways to prevent algae growth and keep bacteria at bay. However, COVID-19 has brought about many unexpected   challenges. Surprisingly, one of these challenges is a shortage of many pool supplies, including 

chlorine.

For one thing, a large amount of people were left quarantining at home. This led to an uptick in pool sales, making chlorine and other pool supplies more in-demand. For another, many companies, including those that manufacture and distribute chlorine, were left with fewer employees or restricted hours, causing production to slow. It also doesn’t help that a major chlorine production facility in Louisiana recently burned down. All of these factors have led to a chlorine shortage. If it’s affecting you, however, don’t panic. You do have options!

Talk to Your Pool Company

First things first, if you’re having trouble getting chlorine, talk to your pool company. They may have chlorine available or have a connection that can help you to find the supplies you need. If you’re in the process of having your pool built, inquire about the availability of chlorine in your area. If there is a shortage, be sure to discuss alternate options for keeping your pool clean or possible ways of acquiring your needed supplies.

Search Online

Chlorine shortages have not affected all areas equally. Some towns actually have plenty of chlorine available. And, while you could travel all over looking for chlorine, that’s not wise during a pandemic. A much safer option is to shop for chlorine online. Many companies provide chlorine tablets and other types of chlorine and will ship them to your door. Just make sure you inquire about availability and shipping time before placing an order.

Consider Alternatives

While chlorine is a highly effective pool chemical, there are other options. If worst comes to worst, you can always use an alternative until chlorine becomes more widely available in your area. You could consider options such as bromine, salt generators, or hydrogen peroxide. However, do consult with your pool professional about how to safely and effectively use alternative options.

COVID-19 is starting to slow its spread, leading many to hope that life will return to relative normalcy soon. Until it does, however, you can follow this advice to keep your pool as clean as possible.

Where to Buy Swimming Pool Products

Once you’ve installed a pool, you’re not done making purchases for that pool.  

In fact, unless you’re hiring a swimming pool service to handle all the care and upkeep of your pool, you’re going to be buying chemicals and pool supplies for many years to come.

That’s not a bad thing. It’s just part of the responsibility of being a swimming pool owner. But, where should you buy your pool supplies? The best answer is through a specialty pool store or, even better yet, from the company that sold you the pool!

You Want People Who Know Pools

First things first, you don’t want to just guess about what chemicals or supplies you need. That could cause serious problems for your pool. And, while you could do research online, you’ll likely get much better results by following the advice of swimming pool experts.

Typically, these are the people who sell pools and/or who own specialty shops related to pools and pool supplies.

If the company who sold you your pool also sells supplies, definitely go with them as your first choice. After all, they don’t just know pools. They know your exact pool and its needs.

If you can’t do that, ask your pool seller for recommendations on who to go to for supplies and advice. It can make a world of difference!

Avoid the Big Box Stores

You may be wondering: “Why can’t I just go to Wal-Mart or some other ‘big box’ store for my pool supplies?”

You could do that. And, you might be tempted to since these stores are often quite cheap.

However, you’ll get nothing in the way of advice, at least not knowledgeable advice, from these types of retailers. Plus, the chemicals and products they sell are often of a lower-quality than what you’d find at a specialty store. Do you really want to “go cheap” or take chances with your pool?

Remember, your pool is a big investment, one that you want to last for many years to come. As such, take pride in your pool and settle for nothing but the best, even if that means spending a little bit more at the specialty stores. In the end, your pool will thank you for it.