The amount of chlorine to put in a pool depends on the type of pool (residential or commercial) and the chlorine product you use
. Regular testing is necessary to maintain proper chlorine levels of 1.0 to 3.0 ppm (parts per million)
. The CDC recommends a chlorine concentration of at least 1 ppm in pools
. To chlorinate your pool:
- Test the water Use a test strip or liquid test kit to test the chlorine levels in your pool
- Residential pools Maintain chlorine levels at 1.0 ppm
- Commercial pools Keep chlorine between 1.5–2.0 ppm
- Chlorine granules Add 2 to 3 ounces for every 5,000 gallons of water
. For regular maintenance, 3.5 to 5 grams of chlorine per 1,000 liters of water is sufficient
. For shock chlorination, add 5 to 8 grams of chlorine per 1,000 liters of water
- Chlorine tablets (3-inch) Use 1 tablet for every 5,000 gallons of water in the pool
. For a smaller pool, use 1-inch tablets, granules, or liquid chlorine instead
- Liquid chlorine Add a half-gallon of liquid chlorine for every 5,000 gallons of water
- After adding chlorine Wait around 4 hours before swimming, and test the chlorine level before getting in. The chlorine level should be below 5.0 ppm to be safe
- Factors The pool's size, pH, water temperature, and usage should be considered when determining how much chlorine to add
