The dos and don’ts of using pool chemicals

Why chemical safety matters

Maintaining the clarity and hygiene of your swimming pool relies heavily on understanding its chemistry. Pool chemicals are essential for ensuring safe and inviting water, but handling them requires care and knowledge.

Incorrect use can pose safety risks and negatively impact water quality or even damage your pool equipment. In this guide, we provide practical, expert-led advice for responsible chemical management, helping pool owners maintain balance, safety, and confidence all year round.

Proper handling protects swimmers, equipment, and the pool environment. Incorrect application or dosage can cause eye or skin irritation, while poor storage may reduce a product’s effectiveness or create hazards.

Misusing chemicals, particularly chlorine-based products, can also damage surfaces, liners, or filtration systems over time. These risks are entirely preventable through careful measurement, adherence to instructions, and consistent maintenance.

Responsible chemical use protects people and preserves your investment, ensuring your pool remains a safe and enjoyable feature for years to come.

Understanding pool chemistry

Effective pool maintenance begins with the fundamentals of water chemistry. Sanitising agents like chlorine (or bromine) disinfect water by killing bacteria. Maintaining the correct pH balance, typically between 7.2 and 7.6, ensures sanitisers work effectively and prevents irritation.

Chlorine levels should usually remain between 1 and 3 parts per million (ppm). Supporting products such as algaecides prevent growth, while clarifiers remove fine particles that cause cloudiness. Achieving this balance reduces overuse and keeps water safe, clean, and comfortable for swimmers.

The dos of using pool chemicals

Best practice for handling pool chemicals safely begins before you even open a container. Always read product labels thoroughly and follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions for dosage and application.

Measure chemicals accurately using dedicated scoops or cups – never mix tools between different products. When adding chemicals, particularly granular types or liquids, introduce them gradually to the pool water, often by pre-dissolving in a bucket of pool water (always add chemical to water, never water to chemical) to avoid strong, potentially hazardous reactions. Work in well-ventilated areas and wear protective gear such as gloves and goggles.

Consistent water testing, particularly for pH and chlorine levels, ensures the right balance is maintained. Secure, upright storage away from children, pets, and sunlight helps preserve both safety and product quality.

The don’ts of using pool chemicals

Equally important is knowing what to avoid. Never mix different chemicals, especially chlorine-based products with acids, as this can release dangerous gases. Do not store incompatible substances together, as even small leaks can lead to hazardous reactions.

Avoid over-chlorinating, it doesn’t make the water cleaner but can cause discomfort for swimmers. Never substitute household cleaners for pool products, and always keep food, drink, and smoking materials away from chemical areas.

Disposal requires care too. Follow local hazardous waste guidelines; never pour leftover chemicals into drains or household bins.

Storage and handling safety

Proper storage ensures both safety and chemical longevity. Keep all products in their original, clearly labelled containers with lids tightly sealed. Store upright in a cool, dry, ventilated area, away from sunlight, heat, or flammable materials.

Separate acids from chlorine-based sanitisers, and never store liquids above powders. Regularly check for damage or leaks, and replace compromised containers promptly. These small measures maintain effectiveness and minimise risk.

Dealing with spills and reactions

Accidents can happen, but knowing how to respond is vital. If a spill occurs, ventilate the area immediately by opening doors and windows, and keep people and pets away.

Avoid rinsing chemical spills with water unless advised by the manufacturer, as this can intensify reactions. Sweep small dry spills carefully with dedicated tools and dispose of them as hazardous waste.

If fumes, heat, or smoke appear, evacuate the area and contact emergency services. Should chemicals come into contact with skin or eyes, rinse continuously with water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.

Maintaining safe pools with Lagoon Pools

A beautiful, inviting swimming pool requires more than just expert design and construction – it demands consistent, knowledgeable care. Understanding and correctly applying pool chemicals is central to ensuring safe, crystal-clear water for everyone to enjoy.

Lagoon Pools combines technical expertise with a dedicated focus on responsible maintenance practices. We support homeowners with ongoing guidance, professional servicing and the right advice to manage their swimming pool chemistry effectively. We believe in being a long-term partner, helping you maintain a safe, clear and perfectly balanced pool throughout the year, ensuring peace of mind alongside pristine water.

Frequently asked questions

How can I safely handle pool chemicals?

Always read and follow label instructions meticulously. Wear appropriate protective gear (gloves, eye protection). Measure accurately using dedicated tools. Add chemicals to water, never water to chemicals, usually by pre-dissolving in a bucket of pool water before adding to the pool. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid inhaling dust or fumes. Store chemicals securely and separately.

How should pool chemicals be stored?

Store chemicals in their original, tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep liquids below powders. Crucially, store incompatible chemicals like chlorine and acids separately to prevent dangerous reactions. Ensure the storage area is secure and inaccessible to children and pets.

What happens if pool chemicals mix accidentally?

Accidental mixing, especially of chlorine and acids, can release hazardous toxic gases (like chlorine gas). It can also cause heat, fire or even explosions depending on the chemicals involved. If mixing occurs, immediately ensure maximum ventilation, evacuate the area and call emergency services (fire brigade) for professional handling. Do not attempt to clean it up yourself or add water unless specifically instructed by experts.

How often should pool chemistry be tested?

Pool water chemistry, particularly pH and sanitiser (chlorine/bromine) levels, should ideally be tested two or three times per week during the swimming season. Alkalinity and calcium hardness can typically be tested weekly or monthly. Regular testing allows for small, timely adjustments, preventing larger imbalances that require more significant chemical additions and ensuring swimmer comfort and safety.