Summer is over and winter is coming! We want you to be prepared; winterizing your pool and properly storing your accessories are important but what about all the chemicals and supplies you’ve bought this summer? Properly storing your chemicals will make it easier when you are opening your pool next spring, but more importantly, it will keep you and your family safe during the winter!
First, keep all the chemicals and measuring tools in their original containers they first came to your home in. Mixing together chemicals can cause chemical reactions if accidentally combined with one another. Take note of what came in each container or create labels to help you remember their proper place to maximize the safety and the shelf life of your chemicals.
When looking at the containers for most of your chemicals or other pool products they will state to store them in a “cool and dry” location. Choosing a well-ventilated area to store chemicals such as chlorine is important since any of these chemicals in the air can cause objects around them to become brittle or cause corrosion. It’s in good practice to keep chemical containers off of the floor to avoid any possible moisture from entering the container.
Welcome to chemistry 101! First question, what should you never mix with chlorine? Acids is the correct answer! Not only should you not purposely mix chemicals but also deciding where to store your chemicals in relation to one another is equally as important. While many combinations of pool chemicals can be dangerous you can always do a quick internet search to learn some of the chemicals that aren’t friendly towards one another. Do not keep incompatible chemicals next to each other or mix together two different versions of chemicals such as liquids stacked on top of solids.
After using any chemical, you should make sure to close the lids as tightly as possible. If the containers are not properly closed and water enters it can cause many issues. So just double-check to make sure that lid isn’t going anywhere!
Treat your chemicals as carefully as Frosty the Snowman, keep your chemicals away from any electricity and heat sources. If a small spark connects with any of your chemicals it can create a large fire in a small amount of time. You are responsible for the chemicals that you bring home so take time to familiarize yourself with the proper storage steps to keep them safe.
