A sparkling pool is the heart of summer fun, but over time, neglect can lead to murky, algae-filled water that’s anything but inviting. If your pool has been sitting unused, covered in green or yellow algae, or just looking worse for wear, it may be time for a chlorine wash. This deep-cleaning process helps remove algae, bacteria, and stains, restoring your pool to its pristine condition.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to chlorine wash a pool, step by step, so you can get back to enjoying crystal-clear water.
What Is a Chlorine Wash?
A chlorine wash (or chlorine rinse) is a powerful cleaning method that involves applying a liquid chlorine solution to the pool’s surfaces after it has been drained. This process eliminates stubborn algae, sanitizes the pool shell, and helps prevent future infestations. Unlike acid washing, which strips away a thin layer of the pool surface, chlorine washing is a gentler yet effective method for deep cleaning.
When Should You Chlorine Wash a Pool?
- Heavy algae growth: If your pool looks more like a swamp than a swimming spot, a chlorine wash can restore its condition.
- Persistent stains: If regular cleaning methods aren’t removing stains from the pool’s surface, chlorine washing may help.
- Seasonal cleaning: Some pool owners choose to do a chlorine wash at the beginning or end of the swimming season for a fresh start.
- After draining a neglected pool: If the water has been sitting stagnant for months, bacteria and algae may have taken over, requiring a deep clean.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Chlorine Wash a Pool
1. Drain the Pool Completely
Before you start, you’ll need to drain the pool. Using your pool’s waste line and motor system, pump out all the water.
⚠ Important:
- Check your local water disposal regulations before draining the pool. Many areas prohibit releasing pool water into storm drains. Instead, you may need to direct it into a sewer clean-out.
- Avoid draining your pool during extreme heat, as this can cause plaster or fiberglass surfaces to crack.
2. Prepare the Chlorine Solution
For the chlorine wash, you’ll need liquid chlorine (not granules or tablets) mixed with water.
🔹 Mixture Ratio:
- Fill a large watering can or bucket halfway with liquid chlorine.
- Fill the rest with water to dilute the solution.
- Stir the solution to ensure an even mix.
💡 Pro Tip: If the algae buildup is severe, reduce the amount of water for a stronger concentration.
3. Apply the Chlorine Solution to the Pool Walls
Starting at the top edge of the pool, slowly pour the chlorine mixture along the walls. Let the solution run down, covering as much surface area as possible.
- Move around the pool, ensuring every section is coated.
- If algae is heavily concentrated in certain areas, reapply the chlorine solution to those spots.
4. Coat the Pool Floor
Once the walls are treated, repeat the same process for the bottom of the pool. Pour the chlorine solution evenly across the surface to target embedded dirt, bacteria, and algae growth.
5. Scrub Away Remaining Algae and Stains
Even though chlorine is a powerful cleaner, some stubborn spots may need a little extra effort.
- Grab a stiff-bristled pool brush and scrub away any remaining algae or stains.
- Dip the brush in the chlorine mixture for tougher areas.
- Work in circular motions to lift debris from crevices and cracks.
6. Rinse the Pool Thoroughly
Once the scrubbing is complete, rinse the entire pool with clean water.
- Use a garden hose or a pressure washer to flush out loosened dirt, algae, and chlorine residue.
- Pay extra attention to corners, steps, and drain areas where buildup tends to hide.
7. Pump Out the Wastewater
All that scrubbing and rinsing will leave behind a pool of dirty, chlorinated water at the bottom.
- Use a sump pump or your pool’s drainage system to remove the remaining liquid.
- Make sure all the wastewater is properly disposed of according to local regulations.
8. Refill the Pool with Fresh Water
Now that your pool is clean, it’s time to refill it with fresh city water.
- Depending on your pool size, this could take anywhere from a few hours to a full day.
- Use a hose filter to remove impurities and ensure high water quality.
9. Balance the Pool Chemistry
After refilling, you need to test and adjust the chemical levels before using the pool.
- Use pool test strips or a digital testing kit to check chlorine, pH, and alkalinity levels.
- Aim for these ideal levels:
- Chlorine: 1-3 ppm
- pH: 7.2-7.6
- Total alkalinity: 80-120 ppm
- Add chlorine, bromine, or other necessary chemicals as needed to achieve a balanced pool.
Preventing Future Algae Growth
A chlorine wash is a great way to reset your pool, but prevention is key to keeping it clean and algae-free in the long run.
- Maintain Proper Chemical Levels: Test your pool water 2-3 times a week and adjust the chemicals as needed.
- Use an Automatic Pool Cleaner: Robotic or suction-side cleaners help remove debris before it turns into a problem.
- Keep the Filter and Pump Clean: Regularly clean and backwash your pool filter to ensure proper circulation.
- Fill Cracks and Crevices: Algae loves to hide in pool cracks. Use a pool patching compound to seal small openings.
- Run Your Pool Pump Daily: Keep the water moving to prevent stagnation and algae blooms.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to chlorine wash a pool, you have the tools to bring your pool back to life! Whether you’re tackling stubborn algae or preparing for a new season, this deep-cleaning method will help keep your pool looking fresh and inviting. If maintaining your pool feels overwhelming, consider professional cleaning services in Denver to help keep it in top condition year-round.
