Pool Clarifier vs Pool Flocculant – What’s the Difference and When to Use Them?

As a pool owner, keeping your pool clean and clear is important. The right pool chemicals can make a big difference, and two common chemicals that can help are pool clarifier and pool flocculant. But what’s the difference between these two chemicals, Pool Clarifier vs Pool Flocculant, and when should you use each one?

What is a Pool Clarifier?

A pool clarifier is a coagulant that binds smaller particles (organic and inorganic) together into larger clumps and helps in the removal of these clumps through a pool filter. These fine particles often cause cloudiness in the water, so using a clarifier can help restore sparkle to your pool and also aid in filtration.

When to Use a Pool Clarifier

As the name suggests, a pool clarifier is used to clarify or clear the water. If your pool is looking cloudy or murky, this would be a good time to use a clarifier. Rain often brings dirt and debris into your pool, causing the water to look cloudy, and using a clarifier can help restore clarity.

Pool clarifiers are also a brilliant product to add to your regular pool maintenance regime.

How to Use a Pool Clarifier

A clarifier usually comes in two forms – tablet and liquid. Tablets such as Miraclear Cube clarifying tablet are placed directly in the skimmer basket. Liquid clarifiers such as Algon Clarifier work similarly to create a crystal clear pool.

Before using a clarifier, always clean the filter as per the manufacturer’s procedures and check the dosage rate. Then check and maintain the pH of the pool between 7.2 to 7.6. Next, add the clarifier while the pump and filter are running, and the work is done. Repeat it weekly for consistent water clarity and shine.

What is a Pool Flocculant?

Pool flocculant is similar to clarifier in that it binds smaller particles together. However, floc is stronger than clarifier and forms larger clumps that sink to the bottom of your pool. Applying pool floc requires more effort, but it will give you faster results.

When to Use Pool Flocculant

We recommend using pool floc in the following situations:

• To clear up all levels of water cloudiness
• Particularly murky looking water
• To remove dead algae
• If you want fast results

We do not recommend using pool floc if you do not have the equipment to manually vacuum the water to waste. Also, do not use floc if you have a cartridge filter without a waste line.

How to Use Pool Flocculant

Check and maintain the pH of the pool between 7.5 to 8.0 for best results. Add the floc directly into the pool water and run the filter for 1 hour, then switch the pump off until debris has settled down at the bottom. Once the debris has settled down to the bottom, slowly vacuum the pool to waste – never through the filter.

When it comes to pool maintenance, understanding the difference between pool clarifier and pool flocculant can make a big difference. Using the right chemical at the right time can help you maintain a clean and clear pool. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make sure you’re using each chemical effectively and safely, and keeping your pool sparkling clean.

Make sure to check the dosage rate and maintain the pH of your pool for the best results. Using the right chemical at the right time can help you save money on pool maintenance while enjoying a crystal-clear pool. Keep your pool in top condition with the right pool chemicals and regular maintenance.