Using chlorine tablets is a popular and effective way to sanitize your pool. However, overuse of chlorine tablets can lead to high acid levels, which can harm swimmers. The proper chlorine balance is critical for an enjoyable and secure swimming environment. So, you need to use the appropriate amount of chlorine tablets for your pool size. But the question remains, how many chlorine tablets for pool to use?
One 3-inch chlorine pill per 5,000 gallons of water is a good starting point. But always check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance because the amount depends on your pool size, the chlorine level you want to maintain, and the sunlight it receives.
If you are still trying to figure it out, here is a complete guide on chlorine tablets to help you.
What Are Chlorine Tablets?
Chlorine tablets are a popular method of pool sanitization that dissolve slowly over time to maintain proper chlorine levels. They are typically made of trichloro-s-triazinetrione, a compound that releases chlorine when it comes in contact with water.
Moreover, chlorine tablets are easy to use and require minimal effort for pool maintenance. They can be placed in a floating chlorinator or skimmer basket, typically lasting 5-7 days.
Is it Different Than Liquid Chlorine?
Liquid chlorine is a more immediate form of pool sanitization added directly to the pool water, primarily used for shock treatments. It’s typically made of sodium hypochlorite and requires frequent monitoring to maintain proper levels.
Unlike chlorine tablets, you can add liquid chlorine directly to the pool using a pump or pouring it into the water. However, you can’t add liquid chlorine alone; it needs a stabilizer (cyanuric acid) to make it stable.
While both chlorine tablets and liquid chlorine serve the same purpose of keeping pool water safe and sanitary, their application and longevity can differ.
Chlorine tablets are a convenient and effective option for those who want to maintain a consistent chlorine level with minimal effort. In contrast, liquid chlorine is a more hands-on approach, requiring more frequent monitoring.
How Many Chlorine Tablets Should You Add to Your Pool?
The number of chlorine tablets you put in your pool is determined by the pool size, the amount of sunlight it receives, the number of swimmers that use it, and a few other considerations.
Generally, it’s suggested to use 1 of 3-inch tablets per 5,000 gallons of water. However, following the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific brand of tablets is essential.
To help you determine the appropriate number of chlorine tablets for your pool size, refer to the table below:
| The Number of Chlorine Tablets Required for Pools | ||
| Pool Size | Gallons of Water | 3-Inch Chlorine Tablets (Per Week) |
| Small | Upto 5,000 | 1 |
| Small | 5,000 to 7,500 | 1 ½ |
| Medium | 7,500 to 10,000 | 2 |
| Medium | 10,000 to 13,500 | 2 ½ |
| Medium | 13,500 to 15,000 | 3 |
| Medium | 15,000 to 18,000 | 3 ½ |
| Large | 20,000 | 4 |
| Large | 25,000 | 5 |
| Large | 30,000 | 6 |
(A Tip: If you still don’t understand, just remember to add one 3-inch tablet for every 5,000 gallons of water. However, if it’s not a round number, round the water gallons to the closest one, and then divide by 5,000 to get the number of chlorine pucks needed.)
It’s important to note that chlorine levels in a pool should be maintained between 1-3 parts per million (ppm) for residential pools and 3-5 ppm for commercial pools.
Testing your pool water regularly with a test kit will help determine if you need to adjust the number of chlorine tablets you use.
Moreover, using too many tablets can lead to high chlorine levels harmful to swimmers, while using too few can result in insufficient sanitization. You can keep your pool clean, safe, and fun for everyone by following the necessary requirements and keeping adequate chlorine levels.
How Long Do Chlorine Tablets Last in the Pool?
Chlorine tablets work excellently if you wish to keep your pool water clean and safe to swim in. But how long do they last? Well, the answer depends on a few elements.
For instance, it’s dependent on the size of your pool and the number of chlorine tablets you use. The more tablets you use, the faster they will dissolve. It also depends on the temperature of your pool water. The warmer your pool water, the quicker the tablets will dissolve.
Moreover, sunlight also affects chlorine and can break it down. If your pool gets a lot of sun, you may need to add more tablets more frequently.
In short, chlorine tablets can last anywhere from a few days to a week or more, depending on the abovementioned factors. It’s a good idea to check your chlorine levels frequently and add extra as needed.
What Do Chlorine Tablets Do for Your Pool? How Do They Work?
Chlorine tablets are popular for maintaining a hygienic and safe swimming pool.
These tablets are designed to kill harmful bacteria and algae in your pool water and oxidize contaminants such as sweat, sunscreen, and leaves. Doing so helps to ensure your pool water stays clear, clean, and free of debris.
Chlorine tablets are slow-dissolving, releasing a steady stream of chlorine into your pool water over time. It assists with maintaining an adequate quantity of chlorine in your pool, which is critical for keeping the water safe to swim in.
However, if the chlorine level in your pool water drops too low, harmful bacteria and algae can begin to grow, leading to various health problems.
If you are wondering how to use chlorine pucks, it’s very easy! Simply place them in your pool skimmer, floater, or feeder, and let them dissolve slowly over time.
Additionally, this property makes them a convenient choice for pool owners who want to maintain a sanitary and germ-free pool without spending much time on maintenance.
Moreover, chlorine tablets have a long shelf life, making them a cost-effective choice for pool owners. You can store them for several years without losing their effectiveness, meaning you can buy them in bulk and save money in the long run.
How Many Chlorine Tablets Should You Add to Intex Pools?
The number of chlorine tablets you should add to your Intex pool will depend on several factors, including the size of your pool and the level of chlorine needed to maintain a safe swimming environment.
As a general rule, Intex recommends using one 1-inch chlorine tablet for every 1000 gallons of water in your pool. So, for example, if you have a 10-foot Intex pool with a capacity of 1000 gallons, you would use one 1-inch chlorine tablet.
It should be noted, however, that this is only a basic guideline. You may need to adjust the number of chlorine tablets you use based on factors such as the temperature of your pool water, the amount of sunlight your pool gets, and the number of swimmers using your pool.
| Intex Pool Size | Water Capacity | Recommended 1-Inch Chlorine Tablets |
| 8ft x 30in | 639 gallons | 1-2 tablets per week |
| 10ft x 30in | 1,018 gallons | 1-2 tablets per week |
| 12ft x 30in | 1,710 gallons | 2-3 tablets per week |
| 15ft x 42in | 3,861 gallons | 3-4 tablets per week |
| 18ft x 48in | 6,423 gallons | 4-5 tablets per week |
| 20ft x 48in | 7,947 gallons | 5-6 tablets per week |
For better understanding, we also have some guidelines based on the type of Intex pool:
- Small Inflatable Pools: If you have a small Intex inflatable pool with a water capacity of 1000 to 1500 liters, you can add 1 to 2 chlorine tablets to your pool per week.
It’s essential to check the chlorine levels regularly to ensure they are within the recommended range of 1 to 3 ppm (parts per million). - Medium Inflatable Pools: For medium-sized Intex inflatable pools with a water capacity of 2000 to 2500 liters, you can add 2 to 3 chlorine tablets per week.
- Large Inflatable Pools: If you have a large Intex inflatable pool with a water capacity of 3000 to 4000 liters, you can add 3 to 4 chlorine tablets weekly. This will help to maintain the recommended chlorine levels in your pool and keep the water clean and safe to swim in.
- Frame Pools: For Intex frame pools, the number of chlorine tablets you should add will depend on the size of your pool.
As a general rule of thumb, you can add 1 to 2 chlorine tablets per 1000 liters of water. For example, if you have an Intex frame pool with a water capacity of 10,000 liters, you can add 10 to 20 chlorine tablets per week.
Moreover, consider other pool maintenance products such as shock treatments, algaecides, and pH balancers. These products can help keep your pool water clean, clear, and safe to swim in.
Choosing the Right Chlorine Tablet for your Pool
It may surprise you, but choosing the right chlorine tablet is also crucial. Your decision will directly impact the cleanliness and safety of your pool water.
So, consider the following factors when selecting the right chlorine tablet for your pool:
Stabilized chlorine tablets contain cyanuric acid, which helps protect the chlorine from sunlight and other factors that can break it down. Unstabilized chlorine tablets do not contain cyanuric acid and are typically used for short-term pool maintenance.
- Type of Chlorine: Two main types of chlorine tablets are available for pool use: stabilized and unstabilized.
Stabilized chlorine tablets contain cyanuric acid, which helps protect the chlorine from sunlight and other factors that can break it down. Unstabilized chlorine tablets do not contain cyanuric acid and are typically used for short-term pool maintenance. - Size of Tablet: Chlorine tablets come in various sizes, including 1-inch, 3-inch, and jumbo tablets. The size of the tablet you choose will depend on the size of your pool and the level of chlorine you need to maintain.
- Dissolving Rate: Chlorine tablets can dissolve at different rates, depending on water temperature and circulation factors. Slow-dissolving tablets are ideal for long-term maintenance while fast-dissolving tablets can be used for short-term needs such as shock treatments.
- Price: Chlorine tablets vary in price depending on the brand, type, and size. It’s vital to consider your budget when selecting the right chlorine tablet for your pool.
- Environmental Factors: It’s essential to consider the environmental impact of the chlorine tablets you choose. Some tablets contain additional chemicals that can be harmful to the environment, while others are eco-friendly and safer for the environment.
(Caution: Never use chlorine pucks or tablets in indoor pools because the chlorine will just build up and keep increasing the CYA in the water. This may later harm you and your pool equipment.)
Are Floating Chlorine Dispensers Worth It? Spoiler Alert: They Aren’t
Floating chlorine dispensers may seem like a convenient way to maintain chlorine levels in your pool, but they are often not worth the investment. Here’s why:
- Floating dispensers can be easily knocked around by pool users or wind, causing uneven distribution of chlorine in the water. This can lead to pool areas with either too much or too little.
- Floating dispensers can also damage the pool surface if left in one spot too long. The concentrated chlorine can bleach or corrode certain materials, such as vinyl or plaster.
- Floating dispensers require constant monitoring and maintenance to ensure they dispense the correct amount of chlorine, making the device inconvenient and difficult.
So, it’s often better to invest in a quality automatic pool chlorinator or manually add chlorine as needed to ensure the safe and even distribution of chemicals in your pool water.
FAQs
How Long Should You Wait After Adding Chlorine Tablets to Your Pool?
Before swimming, you must wait at least 4 hours after adding chlorine tablets to your pool. However, 24 hours is the safest waiting period.
Is Adding Chlorine Tablets to Pools Safe?
Yes, adding chlorine tablets to pools is generally safe if you use them according to the manufacturer’s instructions and take appropriate safety precautions.
How Many Chlorine Tablets in Floater?
The number of chlorine tablets in a floater depends on the size of the floater and the size of the tablets, but it is typically recommended to use 1-3 tablets at a time
Can You Put the Chlorine Tablets Anywhere in the Pool?
You shouldn’t place chlorine tablets directly into the pool as they can bleach or damage the pool liner. Instead, add them to a designated chlorinator or floater.
Can You Swim with Chlorine Tablets in the Pool?
We don’t recommend swimming with chlorine tablets in the pool before 4 hours, as they can cause skin and eye irritation or even injury if accidentally ingested.
Wrapping Up
Chlorine tablets are an effective and convenient way to maintain proper chlorine levels in your pool if you use them correctly and take appropriate safety precautions.
Additionally, always store chlorine tablets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children and pets. Remember, they can be very harmful if ingested.
However, using chlorine tablets can be a game-changing sanitizer for your pool to keep it hygienic and clean
