---
title: "What Is Oxidizer? Pool Glossary | Marina Pool Services"
description: "An oxidizer is a chemical that breaks down organic waste in the water, and chlorine is one. Plain-English pool glossary from Marina Pool Services in Grapevine..."
url: https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/oxidizer
publisher: Marina Pool Services
phone: +1-817-896-1120
quote: https://marinapool.multisites.ai/contact
---

Water chemistry

# Oxidizer

An oxidizer is a chemical that breaks down organic waste in the water, and chlorine is one.

Oxidizers burn up the oils, lotions, and waste that make water dull and smelly. Chlorine does this job and also sanitizes. A non-chlorine oxidizer, such as potassium monopersulfate, only oxidizes and does not kill germs the same way.

Many owners use a non-chlorine product to [shock](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/shock) without raising chlorine. That can work after swimming, but it does not replace a steady [free chlorine](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/free-chlorine) level. Follow the label for dose and wait time before anyone swims.

[Marina can helpPool Maintenance Services](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/our-services/pool-maintenance-services)

## Related terms

-   [Shock](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/shock)
-   [Sanitizer](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/sanitizer)
-   [Free chlorine](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/free-chlorine)
-   [Enzyme treatment](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/enzyme-treatment)

## Need a hand with your pool?

Call or text and tell us what your pool needs. Estimates are free for qualifying services, and same-day estimates are possible when the schedule allows.

[Call (817) 896-1120](tel:+1-817-896-1120)[Get a quote](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/contact)

![A pool technician working on an equipment pad](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/_astro/technician-equipment-pad.BW5xZMNY_Zum1K5.webp)