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Pool Shock Handling and Safety

Jun 26, 2025

Overview

The discussion reviews the use, safety, and handling instructions for Super Shock Quick, a trichlor-based pool shock, comparing it to calcium hypochlorite-based shock and highlighting best practices for application and storage.

Product Comparison: Trichlor vs. Cal Hypo Shocks

  • Super Shock Quick (trichlor) is 67% trichlor and treats 20,000 gallons per bag.
  • Cal hypo (calcium hypochlorite) treats only 10,000 gallons per equivalent bag.
  • Cal hypo raises calcium levels, making it unsuitable for saltwater pools and problematic for standard pools' hardness levels.

Safety Precautions and Toxicity

  • Always wear a mask and protective goggles when handling trichlor powder due to its high toxicity and skin irritation risk.
  • Trichlor powder is very powerful and must not be allowed to touch skin or be inhaled.

Application Methods and Recommendations

  • For colored plaster pools, only add trichlor at the return jet to prevent bleaching from powder settling.
  • It can be safely added to the skimmer, as it dissolves quickly without affecting equipment or pH.
  • Ensure the pool pump is running when adding shock.
  • Do not dilute trichlor shock in a bucket—risk of severe toxic reaction; minimum safe dilution is in 1,000 gallons of water.

Usage and Storage Tips

  • Never allow the trichlor bag to get wet, as it can activate and damage the packaging or release fumes.
  • Store in a dry, secure place; use a sealed container if exposed to rain or wet conditions.

Pool Maintenance Context

  • The pool required shocking due to low chlorine and leaf debris consuming available chlorine.
  • Two bags of Super Shock Quick were added to address heavy debris load.
  • Manual cleaning was performed, and the pool showed improvement within half an hour of treatment.

Recommendations / Advice

  • Use trichlor shock only with extreme caution and proper protective gear.
  • Prefer applying via skimmer or return jet to minimize equipment and surface risk.
  • Over-dosing is safer than under-dosing in severe contamination cases, but caution is advised.