As summer approaches, you may have noticed it’s getting harder to purchase the chlorine you need in your pool. You’re not alone. There’s a chlorine shortage across the country, and pool owners are beginning to take note. While this shortage is another side effect of the pandemic, it’s important to note that you still have options. Even though there is a shortage, you do have a few options to help you use less chlorine. 

Chlorine Shortage Situation

Many materials have been back-ordered or in short supply recently. Much of this is due to the long-term impact of COVID-19. Shutdowns and lower staffing levels have meant that many suppliers have struggled to keep up with demand. At the same time, there was a massive fire at a BioLab facility last fall. This put them out of production for a significant amount of time. Fortunately, there are ways to use less chlorine in your pool so this shortage doesn’t so heavily impact you.

Saltwater Chlorine Generator

No chlorine? No problem! Just generate your own using salt and water. The machine creates chlorine through a process called electrolysis. When you use a saltwater generator, you also get softer and smoother pool water. Because chlorine is continually being produced, you can also avoid using extra to shock the pool and return it to balance. However, you will have to add algaecides and pH balancers. While a saltwater chlorine generator has a higher initial cost, it can help you save on buying chlorine and avoid struggling with the shortage.

Supplement With a Secondary System

You can continue to use chlorine, but less of it, by adding a secondary system. Consider using an ultraviolet or ozone system. These leave no byproducts in the pool and can clean water quickly. Ozone and UV light won’t affect pH levels or corrode anything in the pool the way saltwater may. Using a supplementary system can help reduce the amount of chlorine needed, however you’ll still need some form of sanitizing chemicals to keep the pool healthy. 

Your Coventry Pool Care Experts

There’s a higher demand for chlorine right now thanks to the pool building boom we’re currently experiencing. However, due to the shortage, you’ll also notice there’s probably an increase in price, as well. It’s important to remember there are alternatives out there that while you’ll want to incorporate temporarily, you may benefit from greatly in the long run. We want to help you enjoy your pool this year and for years to come. Give the pool care experts at The Pool Doctor a call if you have any questions about water quality, maintenance, or other issues, or stop by our store today!

ABOUT THE COMPANY 

The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island is the leading full-service pool and spa company in Rhode Island. Their business had its beginnings in 1987 when co-owner Ron Leclerc began selling pool supplies out of the back of his Camaro. In 2001, Ron and his wife Debbie opened their 7,000 square foot facility in Coventry. This extensive and beautiful showroom is the result of years of hard work and represents a long-standing tradition of excellence and commitment to giving Rhode Islanders the best pool and spa service, advice, and products.  

From installing vinyl liner inground swimming pools to selling gorgeous Dimension One hot tubs to offering free water-testing and professional service in their store, The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island is your place for everything pool and spa. They are a proud BioGuard Platinum Dealer and also offer a huge selection of other brands of swimming pool and hot tub supplies, including Loop-Loc Pool Safety Covers, above ground pools, and Hayward equipment. But, more than anything, The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island strives to give their customers a wonderful experience from beginning to end. 

Visit The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island at 2200 Nooseneck Hill Road in Coventry or at splashtime.com or give them a call at (401) 392-1300. They serve all of Rhode Island, including Coventry, West Greenwich, East Greenwich, North Kingstown, South Kingstown, Exeter, Richmond, and Hopkinton.