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Alternate Sanitation Sources

Island Wave Pools

How You Can Adapt to the 2021 Chlorine Shortage

Backyard pools have provided homeowners relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. It's safe to say that pools across the country have worked overtime to make up for closed gyms and cancelled vacations. But the extraordinary measures needed to slow the virus have impacted all industries and pool suppliers are no exception.

You may already be aware of the chlorine shortage that stretches back to last year, but do you know what is behind that shortage? We'll explain and also help you prepare for the 2021 pool season.

Higher Demand and Lower Supply

Increased demand is not just coming from families trying to save their summers. Other industrial businesses have been buying up chlorine for use in surface disinfectants. The shortage was made even worse by Hurricane Laura. In August 2020, the storm destroyed one of the largest chlorine manufacturing plants on the continent, putting more strain on the already coveted supply.

Alternate Sanitation Sources

Chlorine products ensure that your pool is safe for you and your family. So, it's important to keep a supply on hand. You might find that a certain form of chlorine is more readily available in your area. For example, you might use chlorine tablets, but find that your supplier carries liquid chlorine. Switching to a different chlorine product could help you adapt to the shortage. However, if you do make a switch, then you must also change how you add the chlorine to your pool. Keep in mind that tablet feeders will not work with liquid chlorine and liquid feeders will not work with tablets.

You may also consider switching to a salt water chlorine generator, or adding a UV, Ozone or Ionizer system to your pool. These alternative sanitation products can either replace or offset your chlorine consumption by up to 70%.

Stretch your Supply

You can also weather the shortage by using less chlorine. Adding a UV or ozone system to your pool will kill germs and bacteria, while allowing you to add just enough chlorine so that it maintains a residual level in your pool, lowering your overall consumption. Another option to get through the shortage is to regularly shock your pool with an oxidizer, which reduces the need for chlorine.

A Note on Safety

We all might need a little creative thinking to keep our pools open, but always stay safe while dealing with pool chemicals. Its possible to create dangerous chemical reactions if you combine the wrong pool supplies.

Stay safe by never using the same scoop or bucket for different chemicals, or even for different kinds of chlorine.

Consult with Experts

A proactive attitude is the best way to deal with the chlorine shortage. Reach out to the pool experts at Pool Supplies Canada if you have any questions about your pool. We would be happy to advise you on the safest, simplest, and most economical way for you to take care of your pool in these difficult circumstances.

Stay safe and keep swimming!

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