an oxidizer tat "burns off" the organic wastes which case cloudiness and algae. It is a generic term for a chemical used to oxidize organic wastes.

refers to the application of large quantities of chlorine (superchlorination), non-chlorine shock or hydrogen peroxide. Typically 5-10 times the normal dose is used, based upon actual conditions and needs. The purpose of this large dose is to break down (breakpoint chlorination, in the case of chlorine) the combined chlorine, organic waste and contamination and re-establish a positive level of Free Chlorine. Shocking must be repeated, until such time as a stable Free Chlorine reading can be achieved, for at least a few hours. Make sure that a Free Chlorine capable test kit is being used, in order to know when breakpoint chlorination has been achieved.

The addition of large quantities of oxidizer(s) to destroy suntan lotion, cosmetics, perspiration, combined chlorine, and other undesirable compounds.

TREAT The practice of adding significant amounts of an oxidizing chemical - (usually non- chlorine oxidizers, such as sodium persulfate or potassium Peroxymonosulfate) - to the water to destroy ammonia and nitrogen com- pounds or swimmer waste.

Shocks are products used in shocking or shock treatment. Shocking refers to raising the level of sanitizer so high that breakpoint chlorination can be attained.

A strong oxidizing agent that does not contain chlorine. Shock is used to break down biological wastes, and aids in the sanitization of the spa water. See activator.

As a noun it loosely describes the products used in shocking, such as hypochlorites, potassium permonysulfate or hydrogen peroxide. As a verb it describes the act of bringing the sanitizer level up so high that breakpoint chlorination is reached. When breakpoint is reached, a "shock" or perhaps a "lightning bolt" is a better analogy, is sent through the water, tearing apart molecules and slashing through cell walls. Ultimate purification, man.

The action of adding a chemical known as an oxidizer to hot tub water to gas-off organic wastes which cause cloudiness and algae.