How should I store my pool chemicals?

Properly storing pool chemicals is extremely important for safety and maintaining their effectiveness. Pool chemicals can be hazardous if handled improperly, so following storage guidelines is essential.

Table of Contents

Quick Answers

Here are quick answers to common questions about storing pool chemicals:

Store chemicals in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Keep chemicals in their original labeled containers.
Store chemicals securely out of reach of children and pets.
Never store chemicals near fuel, fertilizers, or other incompatible substances.

Avoid storing large quantities of chemicals – only keep what you need for the season.
Check storage containers periodically for leaks or deterioration.
Always keep storage areas clean and organized.

Use secondary containment such as trays or tubs when storing large volumes.

Proper Chemical Storage Area

Choosing the right location to store pool chemicals is crucial. You’ll want to select an area that is:

Cool and dry – Heat and moisture can degrade chemicals and compromise product integrity. Aim for a storage temperature around 75°F.

Well-ventilated – Good airflow prevents buildup of chemical vapors and reduces fire risks.
Away from direct sunlight – Sunlight accelerates chemical degradation. Store chemicals in an area without windows or direct light exposure.
Away from ignition sources – Don’t store pool chemicals near open flames, heaters, gas appliances, or anything else with an ignition source.

Secure from access – Chemicals must be kept out of reach of children and pets. Use locked storage containers or cabinets.

Attached garages, garden sheds, and pool houses often make ideal storage spots provided they meet the above criteria. Basements also work well. Kitchens, living areas, and bedrooms are unsafe places to keep pool chemicals.

Original Containers

Always leave pool chemicals in their original manufacturer’s containers. The labels provide important safety, handling, and application instructions. Never transfer chemicals into unlabeled containers – this creates significant hazards. Original containers are also specifically designed to safely contain their contents.

Inspect containers periodically for signs of damage or leaks. If you notice deterioration, transfer the contents to a compatible new container that is properly labeled. Replace torn, rusted, or illegible labels as needed.

Separation and Organization

It’s crucial to store pool chemicals safely separated from each other and any incompatible substances. Follow these guidelines for organizing your storage space:

Group like chemicals together (acids, oxidizers, organic).

Separate acids from bases and flammables.
Separate oxidizers from flammables and organic chemicals.
Store in compatible containers (e.g. non-metal containers for corrosives).

Ensure containers and cabinets are clearly labeled.
Use secondary containment to isolate spills or leaks.
Avoid storing other types of hazardous household chemicals in the same space.

Maintaining an organized, clutter-free storage area also helps eliminate hazards. Store only what you need for the pool season to minimize risks.

Avoiding Chemical Cross-Contamination

It’s important to understand which pool chemicals can and cannot be safely stored together. Some combinations may create hazardous reactions or reduce the effectiveness of treatment products. Here are some key tips for avoiding cross-contamination:

Keep Chlorine Separate

Store chlorine chemicals like calcium hypochlorite away from other pool chemicals. Chlorine can react with many substances, reducing its sanitizing strength. Keep it in a dedicated space. Never store chlorine near acids or organic chemicals.

Isolate Acids

Pool acids like muriatic acid and sodium bisulfate should be stored separately from other chemicals. Acids can corrode metal containers and react dangerously with chlorine, oxidizers, organic chemicals, and household products.

Separate Calcium Products

Calcium-based chemicals such as calcium chloride and calcium hypochlorite should have their own storage area. Calcium reacts negatively with acids, alkalis, and salts like cyanuric acid.

Keep Organics Away from Inorganics

Don’t store organic compounds near inorganic chemicals. This includes keeping algaecides and clarifiers separate from sanitizers, acids, and oxidizers that contain inorganic salts. Cross-contamination can impede effectiveness.

Avoid Contact with Other Household Chemicals

Prevent pool chemicals from mixing with non-pool substances like cleaners, automotive products, paints, etc. Store pool chemicals separately from other hazardous household items.

Secondary Containment

Secondary containment provides an important safety net in case of spills or leaks. This involves using a tray, tub, or other vessel to create a second barrier around storage containers. Choose a secondary container that:

Is made of compatible, non-reactive material (plastic works for most chemicals).

Is large enough to hold the contents of the largest stored container, with some extra room.
Has adequate height to enclose stored containers.
Will not tip over or shift easily.

For large chemical storage areas, consider installing retaining walls or berms to provide large-scale containment. Even if you’ve never had a leak, secondary containment provides inexpensive insurance against chemical accidents.

Amounts to Store

Avoid accumulating large stockpiles of unused pool chemicals. Store only the amounts needed for each swimming season. Any excess chemicals present an unnecessary hazard. Here are some general guidelines on storage quantities:

Chlorine – Only enough calcium hypochlorite, sodium hypochlorite, or liquid chlorine for 1-2 months of treatment.

Pool shock – No more than a few extra bags beyond planned shocking needs.
Acids – 10-15 gallons of muriatic acid or equivalent for the season.
Algaecides – One or two extra bottles beyond planned usage.

Clarifiers, enzymes, etc. – Unopened spare containers based on usage rate.

Buying pool chemicals in bulk or overestimating your needs can lead to overstocking. Take inventory before each season and purchase only enough to replenish what you require.

Signage

Clearly labeling your pool chemical storage area helps prevent accidental misuse or exposure. Some key signs to post include:

“Pool Chemicals – Authorized Personnel Only”
Chemical hazard warnings and handling instructions
“No Smoking” warnings

List of stored materials and emergency contacts
NFPA 704 hazard rating diamonds

Use large, bright, weather-resistant signs placed visibly on access doors and storage cabinets. Post warning placards inside the space as well. This alerts anyone entering the risks present and proper precautions.

Inventory Management

Like any storage area, pool chemical supplies should be actively managed and monitored. Follow these best practices:

Take a detailed inventory at least twice per year – beginning and end of season.
Inspect all containers for damage, leaks, or expiration during inventory.

Ensure SDS safety sheets are on hand for all stored chemicals.
Make sure signage and labels are intact and legible.
Look for signs of corrosion, residue buildup, or cross-contamination.

Clean up any spills immediately and properly dispose of contaminated product.
Discard any outdated products per local regulations.
Restock fresh chemicals at the start of each season.

Limit access to properly trained individuals.

Actively managing stored chemicals helps sustain safety and prevents unsafe accumulation of products.

Spill Containment and Cleanup

In the event of a chemical spill or leak:

Evacuate the area and ventilate any spaces with vapors.
Put on appropriate PPE gear for safe chemical handling.
Consult product SDS sheets for spill cleanup procedures.

Use appropriate spill containment tools like absorbent pads.
Carefully neutralize and absorb inorganic acid and base spills.
Collect all spilled solid material into labeled waste containers.

Properly dispose of contaminated products and cleanup materials.
Clean the area thoroughly with water and detergent.
Inspect storage containers for damage and replace if needed.

Report any significant incidents to proper local authorities.

Quick response helps minimize chemical exposures and damage. Have a detailed emergency action plan prepared before any accident occurs.

Disposal Guidelines

It’s inevitable that you’ll need to dispose of some pool chemicals during each season. Follow these responsible disposal practices:

Never dump chemicals down drains, sewers, or directly onto soil.
Allow liquid chlorine and hypochlorite solutions to evaporate in open containers when possible.
Neutralize and dilute acids and oxidizers before disposal as approved.

Absorb and contain any residual liquid with sand or absorbent mats.
Seek guidance from local environmental authorities on proper disposal methods.
Contact hazardous waste collectors to handle disposal if needed.

Save and submit hazardous waste manifests or receipts.
Safely recycle plastic and metal chemical containers when possible.

Proper chemical disposal protects the environment and community from harm. Always check regional laws and regulations when disposing of pool chemicals.

Alternative Sanitizer Options

Instead of traditional pool chemicals, some pool owners are switching to alternative sanitizers that require less routine storage. Two popular options include:

Saltwater Chlorine Generators

Salt chlorine generators convert dissolved salt in pool water into pure chlorine for disinfection. The only chemical needed is ordinary table salt. The chlorine reverts back to salt after treatment, creating a closed loop. This eliminates the need for storing large amounts of chlorine products.

Mineral Purifiers

Mineral purifier systems use minerals like silver, copper, and zinc to sanitize pool water. Small amounts of minerals are added at the start of each season and continually release into the water. Since they usually come in small cartridges, mineral systems require very little chemical storage space.

Switching to alternative sanitizers like salt generators or mineral purifiers lets you significantly reduce the amount of chemicals stored onsite. However, you may still require supplemental chemical treatments from time to time.

Safety Gear

It’s essential to wear proper safety gear when handling pool chemicals. Never access your storage area without the appropriate protective equipment:

Splash goggles to protect eyes and face

Rubber gloves resistant to chemicals
Protective apron to keep chemicals off clothes and skin
Closed toe shoes in case of spills

Face mask if working with powders or strong fumes

Always check product SDS sheets for the recommended personal protective equipment needed. Having proper safety gear on hand helps enable proper chemical handling and reduces accidents.

First Aid Procedures

In case of exposure or injury when handling pool chemicals:

Eyes – Flush immediately with water for 15 minutes. Seek medical attention.
Skin – Rinse area with plenty of fresh water. Remove contaminated clothes. Seek medical care for burns.
Inhalation – Move to fresh air. Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

Ingestion – Drink large volumes of water. Do not induce vomiting. Call poison control or doctor.

Having the right first aid response can significantly reduce the harm from any chemical accidents. Prepare emergency procedures before an incident occurs.

Fire Prevention

Pool chemicals also present elevated fire risks in storage. Here are key measures to help prevent fires:

Provide multiple fire extinguishers tested for chemical fires.
Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent vapor buildup.
Eliminate any nearby ignition sources.

Post clearly visible “No Smoking” signage.
Inspect for leaks or spills that can react with organic matter.
Store oxidizers safely away from organics and fuels.

Develop a fire response plan with emergency contacts.

Planning ahead for a fire emergency can prevent catastrophic consequences when working with pool chemicals.

Conclusion

Storing pool chemicals requires great care and responsibility. While chemicals like chlorine are essential for water treatment, they also introduce risks if handled improperly. Always be mindful of chemical compatibility, safety protocols, and local regulations when maintaining your pool chemical storage space. With adequate ventilation, containment, organization, signage, and preparedness, you can keep your pool sanitizers under safe control.