Does Lowe's Have Pool Chemicals? Complete Shopping Guide

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Quick Answer

Yes, Lowe's Home Improvement stores carry pool chemicals year-round both in-store and online. They stock essential chemicals like liquid chlorine, granular chlorine, pH adjusters, alkalinity increasers, calcium hardness increasers, stabilizer (cyanuric acid), algaecides, and shock treatments from major brands like HTH, Clorox Pool&Spa, and BioGuard.

Step-by-Step Guide to Shopping for Pool Chemicals at Lowe's

1. Check availability before visiting: Use Lowe's website or call your local store to verify specific products are in stock. Pool chemical availability can vary seasonally, with peak selection from March through September.
2. Locate the pool section: Pool chemicals are typically found in the seasonal/outdoor section of the store, usually near patio furniture and grills. During peak season, there's often a dedicated pool chemical aisle.
3. Identify your pool's needs first: Before shopping, test your pool water using a reliable test kit like the Taylor K-2006C. Know your current pH, total alkalinity, free chlorine, and cyanuric acid levels to purchase the right chemicals.
4. Choose liquid chlorine for regular sanitizing: Lowe's stocks liquid chlorine (sodium hypochlorite) in 1-gallon jugs, typically 10-12.5% strength. This is the most cost-effective and pure form of chlorine for daily sanitizing and SLAM treatments.
5. Select pH adjusters based on your needs: Purchase muriatic acid (31.45% hydrochloric acid) to lower pH, or sodium carbonate (soda ash) to raise pH. Lowe's carries both in various sizes.
6. Get alkalinity increaser if needed: Look for sodium bicarbonate products to raise total alkalinity. Target range is 80-120 ppm for most pools, or 60-80 ppm for salt water generator pools.
7. Consider calcium hardness increaser: If you have a plaster pool, you'll need calcium chloride to maintain 250-350 ppm calcium hardness. Vinyl and fiberglass pools need lower levels.
8. Purchase stabilizer for outdoor pools: Buy cyanuric acid (stabilizer) to protect chlorine from UV degradation. Target 30-50 ppm for regular pools, or 70-80 ppm for salt water generator pools.
9. Compare prices and sizes: Calculate the cost per pound or gallon to find the best value. Larger containers are usually more economical if you have storage space.
10. Check expiration dates: Ensure chemicals haven't been sitting on shelves too long. Liquid chlorine loses potency over time, especially in heat.

What Pool Chemicals You'll Find at Lowe's

Sanitizers

Lowe's stocks various chlorine forms including liquid chlorine (best for regular use), calcium hypochlorite (cal-hypo), and trichlor tablets. For pool clarity and algae issues, stick with liquid chlorine as it doesn't add unwanted byproducts like stabilizer or calcium.

pH and Alkalinity Adjusters

You'll find muriatic acid for lowering pH and total alkalinity, sodium carbonate for raising pH, and sodium bicarbonate for raising alkalinity. These are essential for maintaining proper water balance.

Specialty Chemicals

Lowe's carries algaecides, clarifiers, enzyme products, and metal sequestrants. However, proper chlorination using the SLAM method (Shock Level And Maintain) is more effective than algaecides for treating green water.

Pricing and Value Considerations

Lowe's pool chemical prices are generally competitive with other big-box retailers but may be higher than pool specialty stores or online bulk purchases. Liquid chlorine typically costs $3-5 per gallon. Watch for seasonal sales, especially end-of-summer clearances.

Money-saving tip: Many pool stores and Walmart often have better prices on liquid chlorine. Compare costs per gallon of available chlorine, not just the sticker price.

Online vs. In-Store Shopping

Lowe's offers both in-store pickup and delivery for pool chemicals. Heavy items like liquid chlorine or large bags of shock are convenient to order online for pickup. However, hazardous materials restrictions may limit shipping options for some chemicals.

Safety Considerations When Shopping

Important safety reminders:

• Never mix different pool chemicals together
• Transport chemicals in your vehicle's trunk or truck bed, not the passenger area
• Store chemicals in a cool, dry place away from heat sources
• Always read and follow label directions exactly
• Wear gloves and eye protection when handling chemicals

Alternatives to Consider

While Lowe's is convenient, consider these alternatives for potentially better value:

• Local pool stores: Often have better prices and expert advice
• Walmart: Frequently has the lowest liquid chlorine prices
• Costco/Sam's Club: Bulk purchasing can save money
• Online suppliers: Good for specialty chemicals and bulk orders

For the most effective pool maintenance, focus on liquid chlorine, muriatic acid, and a quality test kit rather than expensive specialty products. The Trouble Free Pool method emphasizes simple, effective chemicals that actually work.