What is the difference between stabilized and unstabilized chlorine?

You may have noticed that the chlorine or chlorine shock is either labeled as stabilized or unstabilized. This refers to the levels of cyanuric acid in the chlorine.

Cyanuric acid protects the chlorine in your pool from ultraviolet rays of the sun. In pools that receive large amounts of sunlight, not having enough cyanuric acid present in the water (between 30-80 ppm) can lead to rapid chlorine loss, and could cost hundreds of dollars more in chlorine costs throughout the pool season.

Many pool owners learn about cyanuric acid and make the mistake of adding too much cyanuric acid, in the hope that it will keep their chlorine as efficient as possible, but it’s important to keep in mind that when a pool has too much cyanuric acid (over 100 ppm), it will actually make your chlorine ineffective! In many cases, the problem becomes so severe that the only solution is draining the pool and filling with new water.

By having scheduled water tests at The Swimming Pool Store, we can help keep your stabilizer levels in check, making your chlorine as efficient as possible and saving you on chemical costs all season.

If you haven’t opened your pool yet, give us a call at (860) 673-6118 to schedule a professional opening.  As always, we are happy to answer any and all pool and spa questions you might have. Or if you are interested in our maintenance programs and let us take care of your pool please visit our maintenance page on our website to sign-up for our June Maintenance Special: