cheap but effective pool chemicals - what do you use and where do you buy?

[whil2005]

I am just starting manage my own pool. It is a 26000 gal pool

I’m trying to cut down on pool maintenance costs without sacrificing water quality.

I’d love to hear from experienced pool owners:
1. What affordable but effective chemicals do you use? (chlorine, shock, pH adjusters, algaecides, etc.)
2. Where do you usually buy them for the best deals? (Walmart, Home Depot, Costco, Amazon, local pool store?)
3. Has anyone used household alternatives successfully? (e.g. bleach instead of liquid chlorine, baking soda for alkalinity, etc.)

My goal is to get the job done well without overspending. Appreciate any tips or products you’ve had good results with. Thanks in advance!

 

[Newdude]

Hey Whil and Welcome !!

We are *exactly* the place you'e looking for.

Bleach isn't strong enough for the cost. It's 6% or less and similar price as 10% or 12.5%. Pool Essentials Chlorinating liquid is most people's go-to at Walmart. Pool stores may have good deals on 12.5% but its hit or miss.

13lbs of Baking soda is a lifetime supply from Costco/Sam's and about $10.

Ace hardware has full strength Muriatic acid for $10 or $13, area depending.

That's it 99% of the time. Come check before buying anything else.

 

[YippeeSkippy]

1. What affordable but effective chemicals do you use? (chlorine, shock, pH adjusters, algaecides, etc.)
I use a Salt Water Chlorine Generator...the BEST way to get chlorine. On occasion when I need more chlorine immediately, I use Liquid Chlorine. Bleach now has too many *additives* which you don't want in pool so nix that idea unless TRULY desperate. Algeacides are a waste of money assuming your chlorine level is appropriate, and based on your stabilizer level.
2. Where do you usually buy them for the best deals? (Walmart, Home Depot, Costco, Amazon, local pool store?)
Shop around. Wallyworld, other major hardware stores, etc. There are actually very few chemicals you need. Clorine, Stabilizer and Muriatic Acid are about it, unless you have problems.
3. Has anyone used household alternatives successfully? (e.g. bleach instead of liquid chlorine, baking soda for alkalinity, etc.)
We LOVE us some alternatives to overpriced pool store chems.
What you need MOST of all is a GOOD test kit. The TF-Pro (salt version) is the one I swear by. Lasts about two years and the company that sells it sells refills at discount once or twice a year. Yeah, these kits ain't bargain basement priced but they WILL save you a fortune in the long run. TF-Pro

Most years I spend no more than $150. on pool stuff. My chlorine was all paid in advance by buying the Salt device.

Maddie