HTH Shock Advanced vs. Liquid Chlorine: Which is Best for Your Pool?

HTH Shock Advanced vs. Liquid Chlorine: Which is Best for Your Pool?

When it’s time for your weekly pool shock treatment, you might wonder which product to use. Two of the most popular options are liquid chlorine and HTH Cal Hypo Shock Advanced (powered by Cal Hypo). Let’s compare these choices to determine which is best for your pool and budget.

The Purpose of Shocking Your Pool

Shocking your pool is essential for maintaining clean and clear water. It eliminates harmful bacteria, algae, and contaminants left behind by swimmers, such as body oils, lotions, and sweat. Shocking also removes combined chlorine, which can cause eye irritation, skin discomfort, and unpleasant odors. For optimal water quality, we recommend shocking your pool with Cal Hypo weekly to solve 90% of common pool water problems, like cloudy water and algae growth.

Understanding Unstabilized Chlorine

Both liquid chlorine and HTH Cal Hypo Shock Advanced are unstabilized, meaning they do not contain cyanuric acid (CYA). While a small amount of CYA helps protect chlorine from being broken down by the sun, excessive CYA can lead to "chlorine lock," preventing chlorine from effectively sanitizing your pool. Using an unstabilized shock product helps maintain proper chlorine balance without the risk of chlorine lock (also known as over-stabilization).

Liquid Chlorine: Pros and Cons

At first glance, liquid chlorine seems like an appealing option. It acts quickly, contains no cyanuric acid, and doesn’t require dissolving. It also appears to be a low-cost shock treatment. However, there are several drawbacks to consider:

• Lower Strength: Majority of liquid chlorine contains only 10% available chlorine, making it the weakest shock option.
• Short Shelf Life: It degrades over time, losing potency during storage and transport.
• Higher Usage: Because it’s weaker, you may need more product to achieve the desired chlorine levels, increasing costs.
• Storage and Handling Issues: Liquid chlorine is bulky, messy to handle, and requires careful transport.
• pH Imbalance: It has a very high pH, requiring frequent pH adjustments to maintain water balance.
• Environmental Impact: Sold in 1-gallon plastic containers, liquid chlorine contributes to plastic waste.

HTH Shock Advanced: A Stronger, More Convenient Alternative

HTH Cal Hypo Shock Advanced is a granular shock treatment with 56% available chlorine—more than five times the strength of liquid chlorine. It dissolves quickly, providing a fast-acting and effective Cal Hypo shock treatment without the drawbacks of liquid chlorine.

• Higher Strength: It is more potent than liquid chlorine, offering better value over time.
• No CYA: No cyanuric acid means it prevents chlorine lock and extends chlorine effectiveness.
• Easy to Use: Pre-measured, single-use bags make storage and handling simple.
• Fast-Dissolving: Begins working immediately upon application.
• Lower Environmental Impact: Generates less plastic waste compared to liquid chlorine containers.

The Clear Choice: HTH Cal Hypo Shock Advanced

When comparing liquid chlorine and HTH Cal Hypo Shock Advanced, like your pool water, the choice becomes clear. HTH Cal Hypo Shock Advanced is significantly stronger, more stable during storage and transport, easier to handle, and more environmentally friendly. For a more effective and hassle-free pool shock treatment, HTH Cal Hypo Shock Advanced is the superior option.  You’re all clear with HTH!

Want more?

If you have additional pool water care or product questions, we’re always here to help. Follow HTH™ Pool Care on social, reach out via our Chat feature or find a store near you.

Our Pool Opening page also has great into to make sure the start of the season goes swimmingly. You’re all clear with HTH®!