How Much Bleach to Add to a Pool (6% Calculator and Table)
The amount of 6% household bleach needed depends on pool volume and how much free chlorine you want to add. Enter your gallons and current and target readings below. This calculator uses the 6% option in the pool chemical calculator and treats the label strength as a percentage; household bleach strength is expressed by weight, so the volume estimate may differ by a few percent.
Approximate 6% bleach amounts
| Pool size | Add +1 ppm | Add +2 ppm | Add +3 ppm |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5,000 gallons | 10.7 fl oz | 21.3 fl oz | 32.0 fl oz |
| 10,000 gallons | 21.3 fl oz | 42.7 fl oz | 64.0 fl oz |
| 15,000 gallons | 32.0 fl oz | 64.0 fl oz | 96.0 fl oz |
| 20,000 gallons | 42.7 fl oz | 85.3 fl oz | 128.0 fl oz |
These amounts scale with both pool volume and ppm increase. A 10,000-gallon pool needs about 42.7 fl oz for a +2 ppm increase using the 6% calculation. Verify the product strength on its label before dosing.
CDC recommends at least 1 ppm free chlorine in pools, or at least 2 ppm when using cyanuric acid (CYA). Follow the pool and product directions for your water; see the pool chemistry levels chart.
Add pool chemicals safely
- Read the product label and use the protective equipment it specifies.
- Do not mix bleach with other pool chemicals. Add chemicals only as the product label directs, and never add them while the pool is in use.
- Keep the product in its original labeled container and store it as directed.
- For a large adjustment, add only a portion first, circulate and retest before adding more.
- The product label is the final word. Review pool chemical safety before handling the product.
Sources
- Amounts: calculated from the 6% chlorine option in the pool chemical calculator and rounded to one decimal place.
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Home Pool and Hot Tub Water Treatment and Testing.
- Virginia Department of Health, Pool Chemical Safety.