Do You Put Chlorine In Above Ground Pools?

Ever wondered if you really need chlorine in your above ground swimming pool?
The short answer: yes — unless green, gunky water is your thing.

Chlorine keeps your pool from turning into a murky science experiment.
It kills off the nasty stuff you can’t see — like bacteria and algae — and helps your water stay clean, clear, and swim-worthy all summer long.
Stick with us and we’ll show you the how, why, and what to use, so your pool stays sparkling without the stress.

The Essential Role of Chlorine in Pool Sanitisation

Why Chlorine is Necessary (Killing Bacteria, Algae, Viruses)

Imagine this: the sun’s out, the kids are splashing, and someone drops their ice lolly in the pool.
Along with the leaves, sweat, sunscreen, and bugs, it’s a cocktail of germs in the making.

That’s where chlorine steps in.
It’s like a bouncer for your pool — kicking out harmful bacteria, algae, and viruses before they get the chance to cause problems.
Without it, you’re one heatwave away from a green, slimy disaster.

Preventing Waterborne Illnesses

Chlorine doesn’t just keep the pool looking good — it keeps your family healthy too.
Waterborne illnesses can spread fast, especially after a pool party or heavy rain.

Things like eye irritation, skin rashes, or even stomach bugs can happen if chlorine levels dip.
Think of it as your invisible safety net, quietly working in the background while the kids perfect their cannonballs.

Maintaining Clear and Healthy Water

Let’s be honest — no one wants to swim in cloudy water.
It’s like diving into uncertainty.

Chlorine stops algae before it takes over and keeps your water clear enough to see your toes.
When it’s balanced right, your pool looks inviting, smells fresh, and feels great.
It’s the secret to that holiday-at-home vibe.

Forms of Chlorine Used in Above Ground Pools

Chlorine Tablets (Trichlor/Dichlor)

Slow-Release for Consistent Dosing

Chlorine tablets are the go-to for busy families.
They dissolve slowly, keeping the chlorine levels steady without constant top-ups.

Placed in Floaters or Skimmers

Drop them into a floater or pop one in the skimmer — job done.
They’re easy, tidy, and ideal if you don’t want to play chemist every weekend.

Granular Chlorine (Dichlor, Calcium Hypochlorite)

For Regular Dosing and Shock Treatment

Granular chlorine gives you more control.
You can use it for regular maintenance or give your pool a powerful “shock” after a garden party or storm.

Dissolves Quickly

It acts fast, especially when dissolved in a bucket first before pouring it in.
Perfect for clearing up cloudy water or bringing levels back in check after heavy use.

Liquid Chlorine (Sodium Hypochlorite)

Fast-Acting for Shocking

Liquid chlorine is a favourite for quick fixes.
It gets to work fast and is great when your pool needs an urgent clean-up.

Just pour it in, let it circulate, and watch the water clear up — simple as that.

Understanding Chlorine Levels

Recommended Free Chlorine Levels

The sweet spot for chlorine? Between 1 and 3 parts per million (ppm).
That’s enough to kill germs without irritating your skin or eyes.

Too little and it won’t sanitise. Too much and you might feel like you’ve swum in bleach.
A decent pool test kit will help you hit the mark every time.

Importance of Regular Testing

Sunlight, splashing, sweat, and even the occasional dog dive-in can throw off your chlorine levels.
That’s why regular testing matters — ideally once a week, or more during hot spells.

It’s a small habit that saves big headaches.
Clear water, happy swimmers, and no surprise algae attacks.

How to Add Chlorine Safely and Effectively

Methods of Chlorine Application

Using Chemical Floaters

Floaters are the set-it-and-forget-it option.
Drop in a tablet, let it drift around, and it’ll slowly release chlorine throughout the pool.

It’s ideal if you’re not up for daily pool chemistry.

Automatic Chlorinators (Inline or Offline)

Want something a bit smarter?
Automatic chlorinators connect to your filtration system and do the dosing for you.

Inline or offline, they’re a great fit if you use your pool often and want consistent levels without the hassle.

Manually Dissolving Granular Chlorine

Prefer to stay hands-on?
Granular chlorine works best when you dissolve it in a bucket of water before adding it to the pool.

It helps prevent bleach marks on the liner and ensures even spread.
Great for a quick boost or weekly routine.

Safety Precautions When Handling Chlorine

Proper Storage and Ventilation

Chlorine might be a lifesaver, but it’s still a chemical.
Store it in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place — somewhere kids and pets can’t reach.

Keep it sealed and out of the sun to stop it breaking down.

Wearing Protective Gear

When handling chlorine, gloves and goggles aren’t overkill — they’re common sense.
Especially if you’re dealing with liquids or powders that can irritate your skin and eyes.

Better safe than sorry.

Never Mixing Different Chlorine Types

This one’s important — never, ever mix different types of chlorine.
It can cause dangerous chemical reactions (we’re talking smoke, fire, or worse).

Stick to one type at a time and always follow the label.

Chlorine Alternatives and Supplements

Saltwater Chlorinators (Generate Chlorine On-Site)

Saltwater pools might sound chlorine-free, but they’re not.
They use a clever system to convert salt into chlorine, gently and automatically.

It feels softer on the skin and doesn’t have that strong pool smell.
Great for families who swim often and want lower maintenance.

Non-Chlorine Shock Treatments

These products break down contaminants using oxygen rather than chlorine.
They’re useful for giving your pool a refresh without upping the chlorine levels.

But don’t ditch chlorine entirely — these are best used as a backup.

UV Sterilisers and Ozonators (Supplementary)

UV systems and ozonators zap germs using light or ozone gas.
They reduce the amount of chlorine you need, but they don’t replace it.

Think of them like a sidekick to chlorine’s superhero — handy, but not the main act.

Have you checked out our other posts?

Do I Have To Shock My Pool Every Year?