Pool Chlorine Shortage Across Long Island Threatens Summer Fun

LONG ISLAND, NY— Long Islanders are on the hunt: for pool chlorine tabs. A nationwide shortage stems from both an increased demand for backyard swimming pools during the pandemic and a fire in a major supplying factory in Louisiana.

Some Long Islanders are scouring Amazon for chlorine, selling for double or more normal prices.

On Thursday, David Lam in Bellmore found 20 pounds of tablets online from Leslie's for $100, twice what he'd typically pay. He tells Patch he's going to be careful and make the supply last.

Some saltwater pool owners like Jack Boyd in Southold are making do by only using liquid shock and skipping the chlorine for now. Using liquid chlorine is another alternative, but not ideal for many owners because it's bulky to store and transport.

Some pool owners are considering converting their pools from standard to salt water.

Michelle Rizzo-Berg says she had some chlorine tabs left over from last summer but is thinking about making the switch for her in-ground pool in Bellport.

CNBC reports that this is the worst chlorine shortage since tracking of the industry began.