Trichlor Tablets: The Benefits and Drawbacks

Having a clean and healthy pool is essential for enjoyable summer swims. Chlorine is the workhorse that sanitizes your pool water and keeps it free of harmful bacteria and algae. It comes in various forms, from liquid to tablets, but this article will focus specifically on Trichlor tablets, a popular choice for pool owners.

The Convenience of Trichlor Tablets

Trichlor tablets are slow-dissolving chlorine dispensers that offer a hands-off pool maintenance approach. They are placed in a floating or inline chlorinator, providing a steady stream of chlorine into the pool water. This is ideal for busy homeowners who don't want to mess with daily chlorine adjustments.

The Downside of Trichlor Tablets: Cyanuric Acid Buildup

While convenient, Trichlor tablets have a hidden drawback: cyanuric acid (CYA). CYA acts like sunscreen for chlorine, helping it last longer in sunlight. However, CYA can build up in your pool water over time. When CYA levels get too high, a condition called "chlorine lock-up" can occur. This means even though you have enough chlorine, it becomes ineffective at killing bacteria, making your pool unsafe for swimming.

Maintaining a Safe Chlorine Level

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends keeping CYA levels low to ensure chlorine can disinfect your pool water continuously. Higher CYA levels require more contact time for chlorine to kill bacteria, which can be tricky to manage since it requires a higher chlorine level to keep bacteria in check.

Safety First: Avoid Placing Trichlor Tablets in the Skimmer

Trichlor tablets are highly acidic, much more so than tap water. Placing them directly in your skimmer basket can damage the basket and other pool equipment, like the pump and heater. Additionally, skimmers are easily accessible, posing a potential safety hazard for children.

Better Chlorine Management Solutions

Trichlor tablets were originally intended as a supplement, not a primary sanitizer. However, their ease of use made them popular. If you're looking for a chlorine management solution that avoids CYA buildup and equipment damage, Grey Shark Pool Services can help! We offer various chlorine sanitizer options, including liquid chlorine and chlorine sticks, which are just as effective as tablets without the drawbacks.

Professional Pool Maintenance: The Key to a Sparkling Pool

Grey Shark Pool Services recommends consulting a pool professional for optimal pool care. We can test your pool water's CYA level and suggest the best chlorine management strategy for your needs. We service both residential and commercial pools in Oak Island, ensuring your pool stays safe and sparkling clean all season. Contact Grey Shark Pool Services today for a free consultation and learn more about keeping your pool healthy!