Pool Supplies

As much as we may dislike the smell of pool chemicals, the alternative can be just as unappealing. An untreated pool is the perfect breeding ground for harmful pathogens (think icky bacteria and other disease-carrying microorganisms).

What kinds of chemicals are used?

To keep pathogens at bay, pool owners use disinfectants, the most popular of which is chlorine. In compound form, chlorine is commonly available as calcium hypochlorite and sodium hypochlorite.

Bromine is another common pool sanitizer. Because it is more stable than chlorine in warmer water temperatures, bromine is often used in spas and hot tubs, too.

When a pool's pH level becomes unbalanced, other chemicals are used to either lower or raise the pH. Hydrochloric acid, also called muriatic acid, is frequently used for this purpose. Acids reduce the pH level. Another popular pool acid is sodium bisulphate.

To increase pH levels, bases are used, such as soda ash (sodium carbonate).

Where to go

• All of Santa Barbara County (1)

  • Safety Kleen — 5310 Overpass Road

• Santa Barbara Area (1)

  • *Community Hazardous Waste Collection Center — University of California, Environmental Health and Safety Building, Building 565, Mesa Road

• Goleta & UCSB Area (1)

  • *Community Hazardous Waste Collection Center — University of California, Environmental Health and Safety Building, Building 565, Mesa Road

• Lompoc Valley & VAFB (1)

  • City of Lompoc Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility — 1585 N. "V" St

• Santa Maria Valley (1)

  • City of Santa Maria Household Hazardous Waste Facility — 2065 East Main Street

• Outside Santa Barbara County (7)

  • Asbury Environmental Services — 2100 North Alameda Street
  • BGI — 527 North Rice Avenue
  • C.J. Seto Support Services, LLC — 2300 Knoll Dr, Unit G
  • Clean Harbors, Inc. — 880 W Verdulera St
  • Earth911.com - Information Only — 1375 North Scottsdale Road, Suite 140
  • Industrial Waste Utilization — 5601 State Street
  • Stericycle, Incorporated