Shelf Life of calcium hypochlorite vs bleach (sodium hypochlorite)

[pratzert]

Thanks for the info Ben.

I'll stick with the "fresh" Sodium Chlorite purchased each season to avoid any products going "stake".

Regards.

[PoolDoc]

Actually, you don't want to purchase sodium hypochlorite in bulk ("sodium chlorite" is a thing, but not what you are getting). Bleach, or sodium hypochlorite, breaks down rapidly at temperatures over 80 degrees, so it's best to store it where it is cool.

Recent changes in bleach manufacturing have improved the shelf life, but you still don't want to 'stock up' in May, for the August heat wave!

[pratzert]

Thanks Ben.

I'll make a conscious effort to not "stock up" on chemicals for the entire season and buy every couple of weeks for what I need.

That way I won't have any products use their potency much over time until I use them.

[robbym70]

I'm buying a case (four gallons) of 12% sodium hypochlorite (labeled as shock) I go through this in about 3-4 weeks or so. Generally dosing with about 40 -50 ounces every couple of days. I'm guessing that's a tolerable rate to avoid breaking down? CYA is about 30 or so.

[PoolDoc]

Yeah. Just try to keep the bleach out of sunlight, and in the coolest available spot.

[robbym70]

thanks !