What is the purpose of shock treatment in pool maintenance?

Shock treatment in pool maintenance is primarily used to quickly raise chlorine levels in order to effectively kill bacteria, algae, and other contaminants present in the water. This process is crucial for maintaining pool hygiene and ensuring a safe swimming environment. When chlorine levels are elevated through shock treatment, it allows for a more potent oxidation of impurities, breaking down organic matter and helping to reduce chloramines, which are responsible for unpleasant odors and skin irritation.

This practice is often employed after heavy pool usage, after a rainstorm, or when water tests indicate high levels of contaminants. The goal is to restore the water's clarity and safety rapidly, making it essential for regular pool upkeep.

While other options mention important aspects of pool maintenance, they do not pertain to the immediate purpose of shock treatment: increasing temperature, clarifying cloudy water, or adding calcium hardness all address different pool care objectives and would not effectively eliminate harmful micro-organisms in the same way that shock treatment does.