So, does Sodium Hypochlorite Damage Tarmac?
Let’s find out…
Sodium Hypochlorite: Well, in this post, I would be walking you through various aspects of sodium hypochlorite in order to help you make an informed decision.
This comprehensive guide would answer almost all the important questions related to sodium hypochlorite in your pool so stay tuned.
Well, in case, you are inquisitive to know about the importance of sodium hypochlorite in maintaining your pool then definitely, you’ve landed at the right place.
I know most of you would’ve some bit of information about sodium hypochlorite, right?
But, for all those, who are just starting out, you don’t have to worry at all because after reading this comprehensive guide, definitely, you would be able to make decisions regarding sodium hypochlorite on your own without any hassle.
Does it make sense?
So, without any further ado, let’s begin…
Does Sodium Hypochlorite Damage Tarmac?
Well, it DEPENDS…
However, I know you’re NOT here for this silly answer, right?
Let’s dive deeper…
The sodium hypochlorite will not damage the tarmac if the concentration is properly diluted.
Mix one part of sodium hypochlorite with one part of water and then apply it to the tarmac to keep moss from growing back.
When properly diluted the bleach will not damage or corrode the surface.
On the other hand, if the concentration is not properly diluted then you’ll find sodium hypochlorite adversely impacting the tarmac.
If you’re expediting the process for the first time then my suggestion would be to perform it under the guidance of experts.
Whether it’s your pool sanitizer or household bleach, sodium hypochlorite would definitely be present as an important ingredient.
Even the most talked-about liquid chlorine comprises sodium hypochlorite intangible amount.
But, at the same time, liquid chlorine manufactured by some brands uses calcium hypochlorite instead of sodium hypochlorite so by seeing the specification you would be able to know which of these two elements has been used.
Since our topic of discussion is sodium hypochlorite as of now so we’re leaving the discussion on calcium hypochlorite for some other day.
What is sodium hypochlorite?
Sodium hypochlorite is an ion that comprises both chlorine and oxygen.
Since it’s an ion so stability is a big issue with it.
It’s really difficult to use sodium hypochlorite alone in your swimming pool.
Moreover, it has a naturally high pH level of 13.
But, at the same time, you also need to understand that sodium hypochlorite can’t be considered the best sanitizer available on the market because it has a very minimal amount of available chlorine (5%).
How does sodium hypochlorite work?
As I already told you that sodium hypochlorite comprises oxygen and chlorine so when water is added to this unstable element it breaks down into many different chemicals in an epigrammatic span of time.
Two of the main chemicals that are produced as the result of breaking down sodium hypochlorite are hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions, and both of them are known to destroy bacteria and oxidize water.
How is sodium hypochlorite used in swimming pools?
The best way to add sodium hypochlorite as a pool sanitizer is in the form of a liquid chlorine state.
Well, the pool sanitizer is diluted and can be added straight to your pool without any further modification or whatever.
Even you can pour the required amount into the skimmer and let the pump run for a while to homogeneously distribute it.
Sodium Hypochlorite Vs. Calcium Hypochlorite
It goes without saying that both the sodium and the calcium hypochlorite are disinfectants, but at the same time, like their names, they are different in composition as well, which we would be discussing in a while.
As the name suggests, calcium hypochlorite aka Cal-hypo contains calcium which isn’t present in sodium hypochlorite at all.
Moreover, the percentage of chlorine in calcium hypochlorite is 65, and is sold as a solid or pre-diluted liquid.
Since the product contains a higher percentage of calcium so the pools in areas that supply water has a problem of calcium hardness or calcium scale tend to steer away from the calcium hypochlorite product.
On the other hand, sodium hypochlorite doesn’t contain chlorine as much as calcium chlorite still it’s a good option for the areas where supply water has a higher percentage of calcium.
At the same time, if your pool resides in an area wherein the supply water is soft then you need to add calcium to the water to raise the required level.
To conclude, both of them are equally good for your pool water, and one might perform better than the other depending upon the circumstances.
If we talk about the major difference between the two, then it is nothing else but the amount that you’ll have to add to keep the levels balanced.
Cyanuric Acid
As per our discussion, both of the aforementioned chemicals are highly stable so the UV rays present in the sunlight can easily eat them up.
You would be astonished to know that in the absence of stabilizers such as CYA, the UV rays can eat up half of these chemicals in less than half an hour which is definitely something not so good for pool owners like you and me.
So, to prevent such events, you need to use CYA which will prevent the chlorine from being eaten up at an alarming rate.
The good news is, most of the chlorine tablets that we buy come with an adequate amount of CYA added to them.
On the other hand, if you’re using liquid chlorine, then you’ll have to read the instructions carefully and make sure, you’re adding it correctly.
In case, you’ve added an excess of CYA to your pool water, then it might give birth to a phenomenon popularly known as chlorine locking, and as a result, free chlorine present in your pool would start losing its effectiveness.
So, keep in mind, adding too many good things isn’t always good.
For the healthy ambiance of your pool, it is highly recommended that you frequently test the pool chemicals using an effecting pool testing kit.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of sodium hypochlorite uses?
Well, it goes without saying that before using sodium hypochlorite in your pool water, you should be well aware of both the advantages as well as disadvantages to refrain from any misadventure.
Does it make sense?
Advantages
Frankly speaking, you can use sodium hypochlorite as a disinfectant as it comes with quite a few advantages.
First and foremost, you can easily store and transport this disinfectant without any hassle.
Secondly, it is readily available so you don’t have to put extra effort to find and buy sodium hypochlorite.
Nothing complex with the dosages.
Moreover, the transportation and storage of sodium hypochlorite are relatively safer.
Its effectiveness is at par with chlorine in terms of disinfectant and sanitizer.
Furthermore, it produces residual disinfectant.
Disadvantages
Just for your information, sodium hypochlorite is a corrosive substance.
You must wear goggles, gloves, and a face mask while pouring sodium chlorite into your pool.
Ensure that it doesn’t come in contact with air as it will lead to its disintegration.
It’s A Wrap
The gist is when buying a pool disinfectant go for the cal-hypo.
But, if you’re staying in a region where calcium hardness is a point of concern for the pool owners, then the best alternative to cal-hypo could be sodium hypochlorite.
As I’ve reiterated in almost all my posts, for a healthy and safe pool ambiance, regular maintenance must be given priority.
Always, use CYA with chlorine in case you own an outdoor pool wherein sunlight is very prominent.
By the way, which is your favorite pool disinfectant?
I along with my team have put loads and loads of effort to come up with this idiosyncratic superlative guide on sodium hypochlorite.
In case, you liked our effort, and want to appreciate us, then please do share this piece of information with the ones who are in need of it.
After all, sharing is caring!
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