Everyone has that neighbor—the one who swears their great-uncle’s method of balancing pool water with baking soda and a wooden spoon works better than any store-bought product. And while we love a good backyard story, pool care is one area where facts matter more than folklore.
Whether you’re a new pool owner or a seasoned pro, you’ve probably heard a few “tips” that don’t quite hold water. Today, we’re clearing things up with a little myth-busting, so you can keep your pool clean, safe, and stress-free all season long.
Myth #1: “If your pool smells like chlorine, it must be clean.”
❌ False.
That strong chlorine smell is actually a sign your water needs attention—not that it’s sanitized.
What you’re smelling is chloramines, byproducts that form when chlorine combines with body oils, sweat, and other organic matter. Chloramines aren’t just stinky—they’re less effective at killing bacteria and can cause eye and skin irritation.
✅ The Fix:
- Maintain proper free chlorine levels
- Shock weekly with E-Z POOL®, especially when swimmer load is high.
- Use ENZymePRO® to break down organic waste and reduce chlorine stress.
- Keep your filter clean and running efficiently.
Myth #2: “If the water looks clear, it’s safe to swim in.”
❌ Not always.
We covered this one briefly in a recent Instagram post, so we wanted to expand!
Clear water can be deceiving. Even if your pool looks clean, the chemistry may be off. Without the right sanitizer levels and balanced pH, bacteria and algae can still thrive—often undetected until a problem emerges.
✅ The Fix:
- Test your water at least once a week
- Maintain chlorine between 1–3 ppm and pH between 7.2–7.6
- Use an all-in-one weekly program like E-Z POOL® to keep your water consistently balanced and safe
Myth #3: “Saltwater pools don’t use chlorine.”
❌ Very false.
Saltwater pools use salt chlorine generators, which convert salt into—you guessed it—chlorine. The difference is in the delivery method, not the chemical itself.
While salt systems offer convenience, they still require:
- Regular testing
- pH balance (salt systems tend to raise pH)
- Scale prevention and salt cell care
✅ The Fix:
- Use PEPPER® weekly to support salt cell performance, limit pH swings, and reduce scale buildup
- Don’t skip regular maintenance just because your pool is “saltwater”
Myth #4: “I don’t need to brush my pool if I vacuum.”
❌ Think again.
Vacuuming only removes debris that’s already settled. Brushing, on the other hand, prevents algae and scale buildup on walls, steps, and tight corners where vacuums can't reach.
Even pools that look clean benefit from weekly brushing. It keeps surfaces smooth, improves circulation, and helps your sanitizer reach all areas of the pool.
✅ The Fix:
- Brush walls, steps, and behind ladders weekly
- Follow up with vacuuming or filtration to remove loosened particles
Myth #5: “If I shocked my pool once, I’m good for the summer.”
❌ Not even close.
Shocking isn’t just a once-a-season event. It should be done:
- After heavy use (parties, pets, etc.)
- After rainstorms
- When chlorine levels drop or water appears cloudy
- Ideally on a regular weekly schedule
✅ The Fix:
- Use shock based on your pool’s needs and your sanitizer type
- For an easier routine, a weekly oxidizing program like E-Z POOL® ensures your water gets consistent care without overcomplicating things
Final Thoughts: The Truth Makes Pool Care Easier
The internet, backyard barbecues, and well-meaning neighbors are full of pool care advice—but not all of it holds water. By sticking to trusted practices and using products designed to simplify maintenance, you’ll spend less time guessing and more time enjoying your pool.
- Test regularly
- Don’t skip brushing
- Understand what’s really in your water
- Use smart, consistent care routines
Whether you're team chlorine, team saltwater, or somewhere in between—knowledge is your best tool for a stress-free swim season.
