Pool chemical shelf life varies dramatically: liquid chlorine lasts 2-5 years, granular chlorine 2-3 years, while pH adjusters and alkalinity increasers can last indefinitely when stored properly.
Yes, pool chemicals can cause rashes through unbalanced water chemistry, excessive chlorine exposure, or pH imbalances. The key is maintaining proper chemical balance and testing regularly to prevent skin irritation.
Most pool chemicals take 2-8 hours to fully circulate and settle, depending on the type of chemical and your pump runtime. Always wait before retesting water levels.
Most pool chemicals can be used in spas, but require different concentrations due to higher temperatures and smaller water volume. Chlorine, pH adjusters, and alkalinity increasers work well, but avoid stabilized chlorine and copper-based algaecides.
Yes, pool chemicals are absolutely essential for safe swimming water. At minimum, you need chlorine sanitizer, pH adjuster, and alkalinity increaser to maintain proper water balance and kill harmful bacteria.
Most pool chemicals should not be stored outside in winter due to freezing temperatures, which can damage containers and reduce effectiveness. Liquid chemicals are especially vulnerable to freeze damage.
Yes, Walmart does carry pool chemicals both in-store and online, including chlorine tablets, liquid shock, pH adjusters, and algaecides. However, selection varies by location and season, with limited availability of professional-grade products.
When used properly, standard pool chemicals pose minimal cancer risk. The key is proper handling, storage, and maintaining balanced water chemistry to avoid harmful byproducts.
Wait times vary by chemical: 15 minutes for liquid chlorine, 8-24 hours for calcium hypochlorite shock, and 30 minutes for muriatic acid. Always test water before swimming.
Yes, you can store pool chemicals in an outdoor shed with proper ventilation, temperature control, and separation. Maintain temperatures below 95°F and ensure adequate airflow to prevent dangerous chemical reactions and degradation.
Generally no - most pool chemicals should be added separately with 30 minutes to 8 hours between applications. Only pH decreaser and chlorine can sometimes be added together safely.
Pool chemicals can make you sick through skin contact, inhalation, or swimming in improperly balanced water. Common symptoms include skin irritation, respiratory issues, and eye problems, all preventable with proper chemical handling and water balance.
Wait times vary by chemical: 15-30 minutes for liquid chlorine, 8-24 hours for calcium hypochlorite shock, and 30 minutes for pH adjusters. Always test water levels before swimming.
Wait at least 1-2 hours between most pool chemical additions, with pH adjustments requiring 2-4 hours before retesting. Some chemicals like chlorine and acid should never be mixed directly.
Most pool chemicals work within 2-8 hours, but timing varies significantly by chemical type. Chlorine works in minutes, pH adjusters take 2-4 hours, while stabilizer can take 24-48 hours to fully dissolve and circulate.
