Swimming Pool Chemical Dosing Converter
Calculate the right amount of chlorine, pH adjuster, and algaecide to add based on your pool volume in gallons or liters.
Enter your pool volume and desired chemical adjustment.
Understanding Pool Chemical Dosing
Proper chemical dosing keeps swimming pool water safe, clear, and comfortable. The amount of chemical needed depends directly on the pool volume. Underdosing leads to algae growth and unsafe water, while overdosing wastes chemicals and can irritate skin and eyes. All dosing starts with knowing your pool volume accurately.
Pool Volume Calculation:
Rectangular pool: Volume (gallons) = Length × Width × Average Depth × 7.48
Round pool: Volume (gallons) = π × Radius² × Average Depth × 7.48
Oval pool: Volume (gallons) = Length × Width × Average Depth × 5.9
To convert: 1 US gallon = 3.785 liters and 1 liter = 0.2642 US gallons
Chlorine Dosing (Sodium Hypochlorite, liquid bleach 12.5%):
To raise free chlorine by 1 ppm (part per million):
10,000 gallons needs approximately 10 fl oz (300 ml) of 12.5% liquid chlorinePer 1,000 gallons: about 1 fl oz (30 ml)
For granular chlorine (calcium hypochlorite, 65%):
10,000 gallons needs approximately 2 oz (57 g) to raise 1 ppm
Target Ranges:
| Chemical | Ideal Range | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Free Chlorine | 1-3 ppm | Add chlorine if below 1 ppm |
| pH | 7.2-7.6 | Add acid if above, soda ash if below |
| Total Alkalinity | 80-120 ppm | Add baking soda if low |
| Cyanuric Acid (CYA) | 30-50 ppm | Add stabilizer if low |
| Calcium Hardness | 200-400 ppm | Add calcium chloride if low |
pH Adjustment:
To lower pH by 0.1 (using muriatic acid, 31.45%):
10,000 gallons needs approximately 4 fl oz (120 ml)Per 1,000 gallons: about 0.4 fl oz (12 ml)
To raise pH by 0.1 (using soda ash / sodium carbonate):
10,000 gallons needs approximately 1 oz (28 g)
Algaecide (Quaternary Ammonium, 10%):
Weekly maintenance dose:
10,000 gallons needs 2-4 fl oz (60-120 ml)
Shock Treatment (Super-Chlorination):
Shock treatment raises chlorine to 10-30 ppm to kill algae and bacteria. Using calcium hypochlorite 65%:
10,000 gallons needs approximately 1 lb (454 g) for a 10 ppm increase- Always shock at dusk or night, as sunlight destroys chlorine rapidly
Safety Notes:
- Never mix different chemicals together — always add chemicals to water, not water to chemicals
- Wait at least 15 minutes between adding different chemicals
- Run the pump for at least 1 hour after adding chemicals to ensure proper mixing
- Test water with a reliable kit at least twice per week during swimming season