---
title: "What Is Shock? Pool Glossary | Marina Pool Services"
description: "Shock is a large one-time dose of chlorine or another oxidizer used to clear chloramines, bacteria, or algae."
url: https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/shock
publisher: Marina Pool Services
phone: +1-817-896-1120
quote: https://marinapool.multisites.ai/contact
---

Water chemistry

# Shock

Shock is a large one-time dose of chlorine or another oxidizer used to clear chloramines, bacteria, or algae.

Shocking is a reset button for pool water. A big dose of chlorine or a non-chlorine oxidizer burns off waste, kills germs, and starts to clear algae.

Shock after heavy use, after a big storm, or when the water turns cloudy or smells. Add it at dusk, with the pump running, and follow the label for dose and wait time. Different products add different things. For example, [cal-hypo](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/calcium-hypochlorite) adds calcium and [dichlor](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/dichlor) adds stabilizer. If the pool is already green, you may need a full cleanup plan, not just one shock.

[Marina can helpAlgae Treatment](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/algae-treatment-grapevine-tx)

## Related terms

-   [Breakpoint chlorination](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/breakpoint-chlorination)
-   [Oxidizer](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/oxidizer)
-   [Calcium hypochlorite](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/calcium-hypochlorite)
-   [Green algae](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/green-algae)

## 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)