Masks can be removed and shots can be fired into the arms, but we are still feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on manufacturing and shipping. Along with things like domestic appliances and Wood, there is also a shortage of chlorine tablets for swimming pools. Here’s why that happened, and what to use in place of the hard-to-get tablets.
Why is there a chlorine shortage in 2021?
So how did that happen? As you may recall, 2020 was a big year for swimming pools at home. In fact, there has been a 23% increase in the number built in the United States compared to 2019, according to Goldman Sachs data. In other words, many pools will be operational in 2021.
In addition, one of the victims of Hurricane Laura, which hit the Louisiana coast in August 2020, was the bio-lab facility. The manufacturing facility produces most of the chlorine tablets used in the United States and suffered significant damage in a fire as a result of the hurricane. According to Savannah Sher in an article on BobVila.com: “The Bio-Lab facility is not supposed to resume production until 2022, so the industry should expect to get out of whack by then.”
What can you use in your pool instead of chlorine tablets?
With the 2021 pool season in full swing and the 2022 chlorine forecast not looking particularly promising, you may be looking for an alternative to the traditional tablets to keep your pool as clean and hygienic as possible. Your best bet is to use liquid chlorine instead, says Sher.
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The cons first – starting with the fact that you’re going to need a lot of these. More specifically, one gallon of liquid chlorine is the same as two chlorine tablets. There is also a possibility that liquid chlorine could affect the pH of your pool, so Sher emphasizes the importance of monitoring levels throughout the swimming season.
And as tempting as it may be to stock up on all that liquid chlorine you need for the season (or into the next season), it’s not a good idea as it has a short shelf life and loses its effectiveness after a few minutes explains Sher. To keep it fresh longer, she recommends storing liquid chlorine in a cool place.
But liquid chlorine has its advantages – starting with its relatively easy handling. “You don’t have to mix the formula with anything and you can just pour it into the pool if needed,” says Sher. Plus, it’s actually available.
