Phoenix Pools: Chlorine Shock Burning Senior Lasers?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 2, 2025

The desert sun beats down, and the shimmering blue of your backyard pool beckons. But for many Arizona seniors in the Phoenix area, that refreshing dip can come with a sting – literally. It’s a burning, itching, red-eyed sensation often dismissed, but frequently caused by pool shock and its chlorine aftermath. We’re here to arm you with the knowledge to keep your eyes happy and healthy while still enjoying your pool.

Chlorine, while essential for keeping our pools clean, can be a major irritant, especially as we age. Our eyes naturally produce fewer tears, making them more susceptible to dryness and irritation. When you add pool shock – a concentrated dose of chlorine used to kill algae and bacteria – to the mix, you’ve got a recipe for what some affectionately (and not so affectionately) call “senior lasers.”

So, what exactly is pool shock, and why does it cause so much trouble? Pool shock is typically a granular or liquid form of chlorine or a non-chlorine oxidizer. It’s designed to rapidly increase the chlorine level in your pool to kill off unwanted contaminants. The problem arises when the chlorine level is too high, or when the pool isn’t properly balanced after shocking.

Several brands of pool shock are readily available in Phoenix, AZ, at stores like Leslie’s Pool Supplies, Pinch A Penny, and even big-box retailers like Home Depot and Lowe’s. Common brands include:

HTH: A widely used brand offering various chlorine-based shocks.
Clorox Pool&Spa: Another popular brand known for its ease of use.
BioGuard: Often favored for its more specialized and gentler formulas.
Kem-Tek: A budget-friendly option, but may require more careful monitoring.

For seniors with sensitive eyes, consider using calcium hypochlorite shock sparingly, as it can significantly raise pH levels. Dichlor shock is pH neutral, but it adds stabilizer (cyanuric acid) which can build up over time. Non-chlorine shock (potassium monopersulfate) is a good alternative, but it doesn’t kill algae, only oxidizes contaminants. BioGuard’s products often contain gentler formulations, but always read the labels carefully.

Now, let’s talk about identifying chlorine-related eye irritation. The symptoms are usually pretty clear:

Redness of the eyes
Burning or stinging sensation
Itchiness
Watery eyes
Blurred vision (temporary)
Sensitivity to light

If you experience these symptoms after swimming, it’s likely due to chlorine irritation. Don’t panic! There are several things you can do to alleviate the discomfort.

First, rinse your eyes thoroughly with cool, clean water. Use an eyewash station if your community pool has one, or simply splash water into your eyes for several minutes. This helps to remove any residual chlorine.

Next, use lubricating eye drops. Look for preservative-free artificial tears, as these are less likely to cause further irritation. Some recommended brands available at Phoenix pharmacies include:

Systane Ultra: A popular choice for dry eye relief.
Refresh Tears: Another widely used and effective option.
TheraTears: Formulated to mimic natural tears.
Blink Tears: Designed for contact lens wearers, but also suitable for general dry eye.

Apply the eye drops as directed, usually every few hours or as needed. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen the irritation.

For more severe cases, you might consider using a cold compress. Apply a clean, damp cloth to your closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes to reduce inflammation.

In rare cases, chlorine exposure can lead to a corneal abrasion (a scratch on the surface of the eye). If your symptoms are severe or persist for more than a day, consult an eye doctor. There are many excellent ophthalmologists and optometrists in the Phoenix metro area.

Prevention, of course, is always better than cure. Here are some tips for preventing chlorine-related eye irritation:

Wear swimming goggles. This is the most effective way to protect your eyes from chlorine. Make sure the goggles fit snugly to create a watertight seal.
Shower before and after swimming. This helps to remove chlorine from your skin and hair, reducing the amount that can get into your eyes.
Avoid swimming when the pool has just been shocked. Wait at least 24 hours after shocking the pool before swimming, or until the chlorine level has returned to the recommended range (1-3 ppm).
Check the pool’s chlorine and pH levels before swimming. Most community pools in Phoenix regularly test their water. If you have your own pool, invest in a reliable test kit and monitor the levels regularly.
Maintain proper pool chemistry. This is crucial for preventing chlorine-related problems. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your pool chemicals, and consult with a pool professional if you’re unsure.

Speaking of pool maintenance, let’s talk about shocking your pool safely, especially in the Phoenix climate. The intense Arizona sun can quickly deplete chlorine levels, so shocking is often necessary. However, timing is key.

The best time to shock your pool in Phoenix is in the late evening or at night. This allows the chlorine to work its magic without being broken down by the sun’s UV rays.

Also, consider the season. During the summer months (May-September), you may need to shock your pool more frequently, perhaps once a week or even more often if you have heavy pool usage. In the cooler months (October-April), you can usually get away with shocking less frequently, perhaps every two weeks or once a month.

When shocking your pool, always follow these safety precautions:

Wear gloves and eye protection.
Carefully measure the amount of shock needed.
Pre-dissolve granular shock in a bucket of water before adding it to the pool. This helps to prevent damage to your pool surface.
Pour the shock solution slowly and evenly around the perimeter of the pool.
Run your pool pump for at least 8 hours after shocking.
Test the water before swimming.

One common mistake pool owners make is adding too much shock. This can lead to excessively high chlorine levels, which can irritate your eyes and skin. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and err on the side of caution.

Another pitfall is neglecting to balance the pool’s pH level. The ideal pH range for a swimming pool is 7.2-7.8. If the pH is too high or too low, it can reduce the effectiveness of the chlorine and cause irritation.

Finally, remember that aging eyes are more sensitive. What might not have bothered you in your younger years can now cause significant discomfort. Be proactive about protecting your eyes and maintaining your pool properly.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your pool without the sting of “senior lasers.” So go ahead, take a dip, and soak up the Arizona sunshine – with your eyes wide open!