Shock chlorine, mainly composed of sodium dichloroisocyanurate (symclosene), is used for rapid treatment. When added to water, it releases hypochlorous acid, also known as free active chlorine. The latter acts immediately to eliminate sources of contamination, such as bacteria and algae. Shock treatment is therefore ideal for remedying cloudy water, after heavy pool use or when the water is out of balance.

Slow chlorine, also composed of sodium dichloroisocyanurate, is designed for gradual dissolution. It releases hypochlorous acid continuously, helping to maintain a stable level of disinfection in the water. Perfect for regular, preventive maintenance, it ensures constant disinfection without the need for frequent intervention.

Stabilizers, generally composed of cyanuric acid, are essential for prolonging the effectiveness of outdoor chlorine. UV rays rapidly degrade free active chlorine. The stabilizer acts by chemically binding to the chlorine, protecting it from UV rays while gradually releasing it into the water. As a result, water remains disinfected for longer, even in direct sunlight.

Stabilized chlorine is a ready-to-use mixture combining chlorine and stabilizer. When added to water, stabilizer preserves part of the free active chlorine from UV rays, guaranteeing long-lasting disinfection. Unstabilized chlorine, on the other hand, such as calcium hypochlorite, does not offer this protection and is mainly used for one-off or indoor treatments.

Shock chlorine is ideal for rapidly treating a problem, while slow chlorine is designed for ongoing maintenance. It all depends on your pool's current needs. Stabilizers are recommended to optimize chlorine efficiency, but care must be taken not to overuse them, as they may reduce the effectiveness of active chlorine.

In short, each product has a clearly defined role. A good balance between shock chlorine, slow-release chlorine and stabilizer ensures clear, healthy pool water all season long.