When it comes to effective sanitizing, pool owners have two main options in chlorine products: liquid chlorine or chlorine granules. It is essential for pool owners to understand the differences between liquid chlorine and chlorine granules in order to choose the best option for their pool. This article provides a comprehensive overview on how each product works and the differences between them.
How Do Liquid Chlorine and Chlorine Granules Work?
Liquid chlorine is a concentrated form of chlorine and is therefore more potent than granules. It is the most cost-effective and efficient route to sanitize a pool. Its active ingredient is bleach, which kills bacteria and algae by oxidizing them. Liquid chlorine must be stored and handled carefully as it is highly acidic and reactive.
Chlorine granules act a little slower than liquid chlorine. It is slower-releasing, meaning that it is distributed slowly over an extended period, allowing it to act on the pool gradually. Its active ingredient is also bleach, but this is slightly different to that in liquid chlorine. The advantage of chlorine granules is that it loses less potency than liquid chlorine due to its slow-release mechanism.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Each?
Advantages of Liquid Chlorine
Liquid chlorine is more cost-effective than chlorine granules as it is more potent and concentrated. Therefore, it is easier to use and store, as you only need to add small quantities of liquid chlorine to achieve the desired effect. In addition, liquid chlorine does not leave a white residue as it dissipates quickly once mixed into the pool water.
Disadvantages of Liquid Chlorine
The main disadvantage of liquid chlorine is its high reactivity and acidity, which can be dangerous if handled and stored incorrectly. It is important to wear appropriate safety gear and avoid contact with skin or eyes if handling liquid chlorine directly. In addition, its potency can quickly break down other compounds present in the pool water, leading to poor water quality and pungent odors.
Advantages of Chlorine Granules
The slow-release mechanism allows chlorine granules to act on the pool gradually, and it results in the pool being sanitized more consistently. Chlorine granules are also much safer to handle than liquid chlorine, as the concoction of bleach is less concentrated and therefore less acidic. In addition, chlorine granules do not expire and are also more effective at higher temperatures.
Disadvantages of Chlorine Granules
Chlorine granules are not as cost-effective as liquid chlorine as it is much harder to measure the correct amount necessary to use. It can also be difficult to dissolve in cold water and the process may be longer. Furthermore, chlorine granules can leave a white residue, which might be difficult to remove and can lead to cloudy water.
People Also Ask
Do Liquid Chlorine and Chlorine Granules Smell the Same?
No, liquid chlorine has a stronger, more pungent smell than chlorine granules.
Can I Use Both Liquid Chlorine and Chlorine Granules?
Yes, liquid chlorine and chlorine granules can be used together in a pool.
Which ONE is Better, Liquid Chlorine or Chlorine Granules?
The answer depends on several factors including pool size and usage, budget and storage space. In general, liquid chlorine is best for small bodies of water with low chlorine demand and chlorine granules are best for larger pools with higher chlorine demand.
What Happens if I Use Too Much Liquid Chlorine in My Pool?
Using too much liquid chlorine can cause too much bleaching and erosion, resulting in an increased pH level and poor water quality.
Can I Use Liquid Chlorine in a Saltwater Pool?
No, liquid chlorine should not be used in a saltwater pool. Chlorine granules can be added to a chlorine generator to sanitize the water.
Conclusion
Liquid chlorine and chlorine granules are both effective solutions for maintaining a clean and safe pool. Liquid chlorine is more cost-effective and efficient, however, chlorine granules are safer to handle and offer a slow-release mechanism. It is important to understand the various pros and cons of each product as well as your pool’s specific needs in order to choose the best solution.