The SLAM Method – Shock, Level, and Maintain Your Pool

Maintaining your pool can feel like an endless chore, especially when faced with the daunting task of battling algae blooms. Fortunately, the SLAM method offers a systematic approach to reclaiming your pool’s clarity and cleanliness.

Using the SLAM Method to Clean Your Pool

The SLAM method, which stands for Shock, Level, And Maintain, is a comprehensive approach to cleaning a pool that has been contaminated with algae or other impurities. Here’s a breakdown of the SLAM process:

1. Shock: This initial step involves raising the chlorine levels in the pool to a “shock” level that is significantly higher than the normal operating level. This high concentration of chlorine effectively kills off algae, bacteria, and other contaminants present in the water.
2. Level: Once the pool has been shocked, it’s crucial to maintain the chlorine levels at the shock level for a sustained period. This ensures that all the algae and other contaminants are thoroughly eliminated from the pool water.
3. Maintain: After reaching the shock level, maintaining it is essential. Regular testing and adjustments are required to keep the chlorine levels stable until the water is clear and free of any signs of algae or contamination.

Though the SLAM method is a time-consuming process that requires patience and diligence, when executed properly, it can restore a pool to a clean, safe, and enjoyable swimming environment.

When Should You SLAM Your Pool?

Experts advise SLAMing your pool if you notice any of the following indicators:

1. Visible algae growth in the pool water.
2. Combined Chlorine (CC) levels exceeding 0.5 parts per million (ppm).
3. A loss of Free Chlorine (FC) of 1.0 ppm or more overnight, as confirmed by the overnight chlorine loss test.

These signs suggest that your pool water is contaminated and may require the intensive treatment provided by the SLAM method to restore clarity and cleanliness.

Important Notes About FC, CC, and CYA

Before embarking on the SLAM process, it’s crucial to grasp the significance of key chemical parameters:

• FC (Free Chlorine): This primary sanitizer keeps your pool water safe by eliminating bacteria and other contaminants.
• CC (Combined Chlorine): The residual chlorine that has already reacted with impurities in the water.
• CYA (Cyanuric Acid): A stabilizer that shields FC from degradation caused by sunlight.

How To Perform The SLAM Method of Pool Cleaning

Preparing to shock your pool requires some essential steps and supplies:

1. Test Kit: Invest in a reliable test kit, which accurately measures the high shock level of chlorine needed for the SLAM process. Additionally, ensure you have ample liquid chlorine to maintain the required free chlorine levels throughout the SLAM.
2. Time and Attention: Plan to be present and have sufficient free time during the SLAM process, especially in the first two days. Initially, check your water every 2-3 hours as the free chlorine drops quickly. Over time, the drop rate slows down as the water clears.
3. Pump and Filter Maintenance: Ensure your pump and filter are in good condition, and clean or backwash the filter as needed. If your filter components (cartridge, sand, or DE grids) are due for replacement, do so before starting the SLAM. Good circulation and filtration are crucial during the SLAM process.
4. Remove Robots: Take any robotic cleaners out of the water before starting the SLAM. High chlorine levels during the process can damage them.
5. Understanding CYA: Familiarize yourself with Cyanuric Acid (CYA) and its relationship with chlorine. Adjust the CYA level accordingly to ensure the effectiveness of chlorine during the SLAM process.
6. Chlorine Supply: Have plenty of liquid chlorine on hand, as you may go through several gallons per day depending on your pool size and CYA level.

Now, let’s go through the steps:

1. pH Correction: Balance the pH close to 7.2. Avoid relying on pool store recommendations, as they may suggest a pH range that’s too high. Adjust the pH lower to ensure effectiveness.
2. CYA Adjustment: Correct the CYA level, aiming for a higher level since maintaining shock level chlorine over several days requires it. Adjust the free chlorine level accordingly.
3. Chlorine Addition: Add chlorine cautiously. One gallon of 10% liquid chlorine increases free chlorine by 10ppm. Always round up and remember that chlorine weakens over time.
4. Manual Pool Brushing: Hand-brush the pool; avoid using robotic cleaners during this process as high chlorine levels can damage them.
5. Regular Chlorine Checks: Check the free chlorine levels and add more if it has decreased, ensuring to maintain the shock level until the water is clear. Initially, repeat this process every few hours, gradually reducing frequency as the chlorine drop rate slows down.

How Do I Know It Worked?

Determining the effectiveness of the SLAM method involves a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. Firstly, observe the clarity of the water post-treatment; a successful SLAM results in crystal-clear water devoid of any visible signs of algae on the pool surfaces.

The effectiveness of the SLAM method in restoring your pool’s clarity and hygiene hinges on several key factors. This intensive process, akin to “shocking,” becomes necessary when the chlorine levels have dwindled for a prolonged period, allowing algae to proliferate. Implementing a concentrated dose of liquid or powder chlorine rapidly elevates the chlorine levels, combating the algae infestation. Concurrently, diligent filtration and pool cleaning are imperative to eliminate the remnants of dead algae. Throughout the process, vigilant chemical monitoring ensures that the water remains balanced, preventing any discrepancies that could hinder progress.

When to Bring in a Professional

Should your pool fail to respond to the initial shock treatment, seeking guidance from a pool care professional becomes crucial. In some cases, a complete drainage and chemical reset may be necessary to rectify the situation. While the restoration process may span over a week or more, gradual improvements should be evident daily. A clear indication of the SLAM method’s success manifests when the CC level reaches or falls below 0.5, the “overnight FC loss test” yields a loss of 1.0 ppm or less, and the water regains its normal clarity.

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