5 Things to Know Before Shocking Well Water

Test for metals first Well water often carries iron, manganese, or calcium. Dumping in chlorine without checking can turn your pool brown or black overnight.

Use a metal sequestrant if iron or manganese is present If your water looks clear but smells metallic, grab a metals test kit. If iron or manganese shows up, use a metal sequestrant like Jack’s Magic before you shock.

Shock, then balance pH and alkalinity After shocking, balance pH—well water usually runs high—and check alkalinity.

Watch for calcium hardness If calcium is over 400 ppm, you may need a flocculant or a partial drain with softened water.

Skipping metal testing leads to rust stains Skip that step and you will be scrubbing rust stains for weeks.