Can I add chemicals to pool with solar cover on?

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Yes, you can add chemicals to pool with a solar cover on. However, First things first, it’s crucial to understand that pool chemistry is a delicate balance. We’re talking about pH levels, alkalinity, chlorine concentrations, and more. The chemicals you add work to keep your pool clean, safe, and comfortable for swimming.

Adding Chemicals With a Solar Cover On

The Do’s:

  • Proper Dispersion: When your solar cover is on, and you need to add chemicals, make sure you don’t pour them directly onto the cover. Instead, you should gently pour them into the pool, preferably near a return line where water flow can help disperse the chemicals evenly.
  • Avoiding Direct Contact: Ensure there’s a gap between the pool’s edge and the cover. This way, you can pour the chemicals without splashing them onto the cover, which could lead to damage or reduced effectiveness.

The Don’ts:

  • No Cover Contact: Never let the chemicals come in direct contact with the solar cover. Chlorine and other pool chemicals can degrade the plastic, shorten the cover’s lifespan, or create a hazardous situation.

Post-Addition Care:

  • Circulation Time: After you’ve added the chemicals, keep the cover off for at least 2 hours. This allows the chemicals to circulate and prevents the buildup of gases that could form between the cover and water surface.
  • Post-Shocking Protocol: If you’ve shocked the pool—this is when you add a large amount of chlorine to deal with algae or bacteria—you’ll want to keep that cover off for a solid 8-10 hours. Shocking requires a significant chemical reaction that needs to breathe, so to speak.

Types of Chemicals and Considerations:

  • Routine Maintenance: For your everyday chlorine or algaecide, follow the instructions above. These are necessary to maintain the day-to-day clarity and sanitation of your pool.
  • Balancing Acts: When adjusting pH or alkalinity, it’s a gentler process, but you still want to follow the same guidelines. Even though these aren’t as harsh as chlorine, they still need proper dispersion.
  • Special Treatments: For more potent treatments, like algaecide or flocculants, give your pool even more time without the cover. You want these chemicals to have full contact with the water and any contaminants.

Good and Bad Effects:

  • The Good: Proper chemical maintenance means a clean pool that’s safe from harmful bacteria and algae. It also ensures your solar cover lasts as long as possible by preventing unnecessary chemical exposure.
  • The Bad: Get it wrong, and you could damage your solar cover, end up with a pool that’s unsafe for swimming, or encourage algae growth due to improperly dispersed chemicals.

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