How to Super-Chlorinate

Even the cleanest-looking pool or hot tub can harbor hidden contaminants over time — from bacteria and algae to mold and biofilm buildup within the plumbing. When standard maintenance isn’t enough, it’s time for a full system reset through super-chlorination, also known as super shocking.

At Hamptons Happiness, we recommend this process any time your water appears discolored, cloudy, or develops an odor that won’t go away, even after routine cleaning.

What Is Super-Chlorination?

Super-chlorination is an intensive sanitizing treatment that raises your chlorine levels to 20 parts per million (ppm) or higher and maintains that level for 72 continuous hours. This extended exposure kills bacteria, mold, algae, and other organic contaminants in both the water and plumbing system.

You can use granular chlorine, bromine, or lithium as your active agent — chlorine being the most common.

Step-by-Step: How to Super-Chlorinate Your Spa

1. Measure and Add Chlorine: Use at least 2.5 ounces (5 tablespoons) of chlorine per 100 gallons of water. Adding a bit more is safe and ensures full sanitization.
2. Circulate Through the Entire System: Make sure chlorinated water moves through every part of your spa:
   • Open all jets, valves, waterfalls, and water features.
   • Set diverter valves halfway open for even flow.
   • If your spa has a built-in drain hose, let some chlorinated water flow through it at the start of treatment. This helps sanitize dead-end plumbing lines where bacteria often hide.
3. Maintain High Chlorine Levels for 72 Hours: Test your chlorine levels after 24, 48, and 72 hours. If the reading drops below the test strip’s maximum range, add more chlorine and restart the 72-hour cycle.
   ⚠️ Do not use your spa during this period.
4. Complete the Decontamination
   Once the 72-hour cycle is finished:
   • Remove and clean your filter thoroughly.
   • Run Spa Marvel Cleanser through the system to remove residual buildup.
   • Drain the spa completely and rinse the shell.
   • Reinstall your clean filter and refill with fresh water