How Long Do I Have to Wait to Swim After Adding Pool Chemicals?
After adding chemicals to a pool or spa, it is always best to retest the water prior to entry after adding any chemicals to make sure the levels are safe. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s label instructions carefully for application and dosing information. Also, follow all pool equipment instruction guidelines from the manufacturer.
Liquid Chlorine: Depending on how much you have added and the size of your pool, it is generally safe to wait about 4 hours after adding liquid chlorine or until levels reach 5 ppm or lower.
After Shocking Your Pool: It is safe to swim once your chlorine levels reach 5 ppm or lower, preferably at 3 ppm. Typically, a minimum of 24 hours up to a couple of days depending on the type of shock and amount used.
After Adding an Algaecide: Some algaecides are perfectly safe to swim within minutes of application while others require longer wait times. Read the manufacturers label for specific time guidelines.
After Adding Muriatic Acid: Muriatic acid can create hot spots of acid in the water that could potentially burn or irritate your skin. It is best to wait a minimum of 30 minutes to an hour after adding it to your pool to allow the acid time to mix with the water.
After Increasing pH, Alkalinity and Clarifier: It is recommended to wait at least 20 minutes to an hour after adding water balancing chemicals.
After Adding Calcium Chloride to Raise Calcium Hardness: You should wait 2-4 hours (or one full cycle through the filter) to swim from the moment you use calcium chloride in your pool.