Shock treatment is an intensive disinfection process applied when regular maintenance is no longer sufficient to keep the water in a PP (polypropylene) pool clear and hygienically sound. The aim of shock treatment is the rapid destruction of bacteria, algae, and organic contaminants.
When is shock treatment needed?
appearance of algae or slippery deposits,
cloudy or milky water,
unpleasant odour,
after heavy pool usage (many bathers),
at the start of the season or after a prolonged shutdown.
Preparation before shock treatment
Before carrying out shock treatment, it is important to clean the pool mechanically (brushing the walls and floor) and check the pH value. The pH should be brought into the optimal range (7.2–7.6), otherwise the disinfection will not be effective.
How is shock treatment performed?
Shock treatment is most commonly carried out using fast-acting chlorine (granules or liquid). How the product is applied depends on its composition and the manufacturer's instructions: check the label and safety data sheet before use, wear the recommended protective equipment and never mix different pool chemicals. Pre-dissolve the product in water only if the manufacturer explicitly requires it, and exactly as instructed. The pump and filtration should run throughout the treatment.
Duration and filtration
After adding the shock agent, filtration must run continuously for at least 12–24 hours, depending on the condition of the water and the volume of the pool.
What to do after treatment?
Once the shock treatment is complete, the chlorine level and pH must be checked. If the water remains cloudy, the filter should be backwashed, and flocculation carried out if necessary.
Safety
During and immediately after shock treatment, swimming is not recommended until the disinfectant level has returned to normal limits.
PP material and shock treatment
PP pools handle shock treatments well when the products are used correctly and are not poured directly onto a dry surface. Always follow the chemical manufacturer's instructions.
Conclusion
Shock treatment is an effective solution for rapidly restoring water quality. When applied correctly, it is a safe and reliable tool in the maintenance of PP pools.