When it comes to pool maintenance, chlorine is undoubtedly the most commonly used disinfectant product. It eliminates bacteria, controls algae, and keeps the water clean and safe. But not all types of chlorine are the same: chlorine sticks (or rods) and chlorine tablets (also called pucks) are two popular formats that differ both in their manufacturing and in their mode of dissolution.
In this article, we will compare in detail the Protect Sticks and the Mega Tabs from Dazzle, two flagship products available at Piscine Hippocampe. The goal: to help you choose the format best suited to your pool and your maintenance routine.
Table of contents
Why use chlorine sticks or tablets?
Before the arrival of chlorinated products in compact format, pool owners had to add liquid chlorine or granular chlorine daily. These methods require more monitoring and adjustments. To address this issue, manufacturers developed slow-dissolving chlorine, which is more stable and easier to dose.
Chlorine sticks and chlorine tablets allow for a controlled and progressive release of chlorine, which stabilizes the treatment and reduces the frequency of manual interventions. They also contain a low dose of cyanuric acid, a stabilizer that acts like sunscreen to protect chlorine from degradation by UV rays.
Comparison: Chlorine Stick vs Chlorine Tablet
🧱 Chlorine sticks – Dazzle Protect Sticks
The Dazzle Protect Sticks are hydraulically compressed, a process that ensures uniform compaction along the entire length of the stick. This level of density allows for a very slow and even dissolution, a major advantage for those looking to minimize maintenance.
✅ Advantages of chlorine sticks:
Extended lifespan: A stick can last up to a week depending on the water temperature and the size of the pool.
Stable dissolution: Chlorine is released consistently, without peaks or troughs.
Less waste: Thanks to their density, you use only what is strictly necessary.
Safe application: Can be placed directly in the skimmer or a chlorinator.
Fewer interventions needed: Perfect for those who want peace of mind.
These features make Protect Sticks a preferred solution for residential pools, especially when the owner wants to limit chemical handling each week.
Chlorine tablets – Dazzle Mega Tabs
Dazzle's Mega Tabs use a faster and less expensive mechanical compression method. They take the form of round tablets, similar to "pucks", with a larger surface area in contact with water.
Unlike sticks, tablets begin to dissolve slowly, but the rate increases as the tablet shrinks. This means that more chlorine is released towards the end of their cycle, which can create a variation in the level of disinfection.
✅ Advantages of chlorine tablets:
Ideal for automatic chlorinators: They offer good efficiency when used with a dispenser.
Easy to handle: Their round shape allows for quick insertion into the skimmer.
Often more affordable price: The manufacturing process reduces the cost.
Faster diffusion: Recommended if you need a more responsive treatment.
However, due to their dissolution method, tablets require more frequent monitoring of the chlorine level.
What is the duration of a stick vs a lozenge?
The duration of a Protect Stick can range from 5 to 7 days, depending on weather conditions, water volume, and pool usage level. In comparison, a Mega Tab will last about 2 to 3 days, with a less consistent chlorine release.
Concrete example:
Small pool (less than 40,000L): 1 stick = 1 week / 1 tablet = 2-3 days
Large pool (over 70,000L): 2-3 sticks / 2-3 tablets in continuous rotation
The choice therefore depends on your desired maintenance frequency, but also on the distribution system you use.
Application in the skimmer or in a chlorinator?
Both formats can be used in the skimmer, but the use of a floating or inline chlorinator is strongly recommended, especially for tablets.
For what?
The chlorinator allows for better control of the chlorine flow.
This prevents overly concentrated products from remaining in the skimmer, which can damage the equipment.
The Protect Sticks, thanks to their slower dissolution, are less problematic in the skimmer, while the Mega Tabs are better suited for chlorinators to avoid chlorine shocks.
Temperature, sun, and chlorine stabilization
Whether you use tablets or sticks, keep in mind that chlorine is sensitive to heat and UV rays. A good stabilizer helps slow down degradation, but an excess can render the chlorine inactive. That is why it is essential to regularly test the free chlorine level, the pH, and the cyanuric acid of your pool.
⚖️ Comparison Table – Stick vs Tablet
| Characteristic | Chlorine stick | Chlorine tablet (Tablet) |
|---|---|---|
| Compression type | Hydraulic (high density) | Mechanical (standard) |
| Dissolution time | 5 to 7 days | 2 to 3 days |
| Diffusion stability | Very stable | Less constant |
| Ideal application | Skimmer or chlorinator | Recommended chlorinator |
| Cost | Slightly higher | More economical to buy |
| Replacement frequency | Weak | More frequent |
Simplified maintenance, crystal-clear water
The goal of any good treatment is to keep the water clear, balanced, and free of bacteria. Sanitizers such as sticks and pucks greatly facilitate this task. Regardless of the chosen format, it is crucial to adjust the other chemical parameters (pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness) so that the chlorine works effectively.
✅ Conclusion: Which chlorine is right for you?
If you are looking for a durable, stable, and low-maintenance solution, Protect Sticks are the best choice. If you prefer a more economical format compatible with a vending machine, Mega Tabs do the job perfectly.
At Piscine Hippocampe, we offer a complete range of Dazzle products for maintaining your pool. Whether you prefer chlorine sticks or the classic tablet, we have everything you need to enjoy your summer with peace of mind.
