Pool Podcast Show - Episode Summary

Sponsors

• HASA: Promotes liquid chlorine for pools; no added cyanuric acid or calcium.
• Bottom Feeder: Battery-powered pool vacuum system.
• Skimmer: Pool service software for scheduling and managing pool maintenance.

Main Topic: 3-inch Trichlor Tablets

• Overview: Also known as chlorine pucks or tabs.
• Composition: Trichlor is trichloroisocyanuric acid (C2Cl3N3O3).
  • Contains about 90% available chlorine.
  • Some contain copper (e.g., Clorox Blue tablets).

Comparison with Other Chlorine Products

• Cal Hypo:
  • 65-75% available chlorine.
  • 10 oz of Cal Hypo = 6.3 oz of chlorine from Trichlor tablet.
• Liquid Chlorine:
  • Typically 12.5% available chlorine.
  • 1 gallon is approximately equal to one Trichlor tablet.

Characteristics of Trichlor Tablets

• Dissolving Rate:
  • Slow dissolving, not suitable for rapid chlorine increase.
  • Compared to using a "crock pot"; long slow release.
• Application Methods:
  • Can be used in floaters or chlorinators (inline/offline).
  • Avoid placing directly in skimmer baskets.

Pros

• Ease of Use: Easy to maintain a stable chlorine level.
• Acid Content: Lowers pH, maintaining a steady pool pH.

Cons

• Cyanuric Acid (CYA) Build-up:
  • Each tablet contains about 50% CYA.
  • High levels of CYA reduce chlorine effectiveness.
  • Requires periodic draining to manage CYA levels.
• Toxicity:
  • Wet tablets produce strong, toxic fumes.
  • Safety precautions needed when handling.

Recommendations

• Drain pool water incrementally to manage CYA levels.
• Use floaters to prevent surface stains and corrosion.
• Monitor pH levels and avoid use in vinyl/fiberglass pools.

Conclusion

• Trichlor Tablets: Effective but require careful management of CYA.
• Alternatives: Consider other chlorine types to avoid high CYA levels.

Additional Resources

• For more podcasts and information, visit swimmingpoollearning.com.
• Learn more about coaching programs at poolguycoaching.com.