One of the most common questions among swimming pool owners, especially those new to pool maintenance, is where to put chlorine tablets. A popular concern is whether it is advisable to place them in the skimmer basket. In fact, placing chlorine tablets in the skimmer basket is perfectly safe and a practical option. As the pool pump circulates water, it flows over the chlorine tablets, aiding in their dissolution and ensuring that the sanitizer is evenly distributed throughout the pool.
For the past 11 years, I have regularly placed chlorine tablets—often referred to as chlorine pucks due to their shape—directly in my skimmer baskets without encountering any issues. I typically do this right after cleaning my pool. It’s surprising that despite the long history of swimming pools, many do not come equipped with a dedicated chlorine or chemical feeder system by default. While such equipment is available, it is not commonly included as standard.
Table of Contents
- Chlorine Tablets in the Skimmer Basket
- Other Opinions
- Alternative Methods for Adding Chlorine Tablets
- Floating Chlorine Tablet Dispenser
- Inline Chemical Feeder
- Can You Put Chlorine Tablets in Your Pump Basket?
- Can You Put Chlorine Tablets Directly in the Pool?
- Alternatives to Chlorine Tablets
- FAQs
Chlorine Tablets in the Skimmer Basket
One significant advantage of placing chlorine tablets in the skimmer basket is that when the pool pump is operational, water flows over the tablets, allowing them to dissolve gradually. This chlorinated water is then pumped back into the pool through the filtration system, ensuring an even distribution of chlorine throughout the swimming area.
I personally use 5-in-1 three-inch tablets, which combine a sanitizer, clarifier, stain inhibitor, descaler, and algaecide into one convenient form. These all-in-one tablets make pool maintenance much simpler.
Other Opinions
Opinions vary widely regarding the practice of placing chlorine tablets in the skimmer basket. While some reputable pool cleaning websites advocate for this method, others caution against it, claiming it may lead to corrosion of the skimmer and other pool equipment. Discussions on swimming pool forums reveal that some participants vehemently oppose this practice, often without having tried it themselves.
My pool, which is over 20 years old, has had chlorine tablets placed in the skimmer basket by both the previous owner and myself, and we’ve experienced no adverse effects. It is true that when the pool pump is off, the tablets will continue to dissolve in the skimmer basket, resulting in higher chlorination levels in the stagnant water. However, as long as the pump runs daily, this should not pose a problem. Once the pump is activated, the highly chlorinated water is quickly circulated back into the pool, minimizing any potential damage.
What Other Methods Can I Use to Add Chlorine Tablets?
Floating Chlorine Tablet Dispenser
Floating chlorine dispensers are a popular alternative to placing tablets directly in the skimmer basket. These devices allow you to load chlorine tablets into them, and as they float on the surface of the pool, they slowly dispense chlorine as they dissolve. Most dispensers feature adjustable openings to regulate the flow of water into the chamber, which can control the dissolution rate of the tablets.
These dispensers come in various designs, often in shades of blue, though novelty shapes resembling ducks, dolphins, or alligators are also available. Personally, I own a large capacity floating dispenser, which is particularly useful when my pool cover is off. I also have a smaller version for my hot tub, where I cannot use a skimmer basket.
Check out a wide range of fun and functional floating chlorine dispensers available on Amazon, including options from Poolmaster and WWD Pool.
Inline Chemical Feeder
Inline chemical feeders are another efficient option, installed in the plumbing system that connects the filter to the pool. Chlorine tablets are placed in these feeders, allowing water to flow over them and dissolve them into the pool. Most automatic chlorinators come with adjustable settings to control the rate at which chlorine is introduced into the water.
These feeders are generally affordable and can often be retrofitted into existing pool systems. You can find options for less than $100 on Amazon, making them a worthwhile investment, especially if you’re planning to be away for an extended period.
Can You Put Chlorine Tablets in Your Pump Basket?
It is advisable to avoid placing chlorine tablets in the pool pump strainer basket. The reason for this is simple: pump baskets are relatively small, and chlorine pucks may obstruct the water flow into the pump, leading to potential operational issues.
Can You Put Chlorine Tablets Directly in the Pool?
Under no circumstances should you toss chlorine tablets directly into your pool. This practice can lead to the tablets resting at the bottom, where the concentrated chlorine can bleach the pool liner beneath them, resulting in unsightly pale or white patches. Furthermore, placing tablets directly in the pool limits water movement over them, hindering their effective dissolution and dispersion.
For further insights into pool care, consider the Pool Care Handbook and Video Course offered by Swim University. This resource covers everything from cleaning to pool chemistry and is backed by a satisfaction guarantee. For visitors to this site, use the discount code EASY10 at checkout to enjoy a 10% discount on this valuable course.
What Alternatives Are There to Chlorine Tablets?
While chlorine tablets are a straightforward method for chlorinating your pool, there are alternatives available. You can opt for powdered or granulated chlorine, which can be purchased in bulk. However, it is crucial never to pour this directly into the pool or skimmer. Instead, fill a large bucket with pool water, add the granulated chlorine while stirring, and keep stirring until it dissolves completely. Then, distribute the mixture evenly around the pool’s perimeter.
Important Note: Always add water to the bucket first, followed by the chemicals—never the other way around.
You may also consider using liquid chlorine, which can be poured directly into the pool.
FAQs
How long does it take for a chlorine tablet to dissolve?
When I add chlorine tablets to my skimmer basket and run the pump for 5-8 hours daily, they typically take about three days to dissolve completely. Floating dispensers may take a little longer due to their design.
How many chlorine tablets should you use?
The number of tablets you should use depends on the existing chlorine level, determined through testing, and the size of your pool. For my pool, which holds approximately 15,000 gallons, I usually add three or four three-inch tablets to the skimmer weekly when the chemistry is balanced.
How to use chlorine tablets in an above-ground pool?
The options for using chlorine tablets in an above-ground pool are similar to those for an in-ground pool. If your above-ground pool lacks a skimmer, you can utilize a floating dispenser or place the tablets in the skimmer if it has one.
Can you swim with chlorine tablets in the pool?
Yes, if your pool maintenance and chemistry are properly managed, swimming while chlorine tablets are in the skimmer or a floating dispenser is safe. If using an inline dispenser, the presence of tablets will be continuous.
Do I need to shock my pool if I use chlorine tablets?
Chlorine tablets help maintain a baseline chlorine level in the pool, but regular shock treatments are still necessary to keep the pool clean and clear.
Can I put shock in my skimmer?
It is not advisable to add shock directly into the skimmer. Instead, dissolve granulated shock in a bucket of pool water first, then distribute it around the pool edges. When using liquid shock, walk around the pool’s perimeter, pouring it in as you go.