Neutralizing Sodium Hypochlorite On Plants ?

[Apple Roof Cleaning (813) 655-8777]

It is possible to neutralize the run off from a roof, in theory. We have always just relied on plenty of water, because even if you do neutralize the chlorine in sodium hypochlorite, you still have the salt  

But, here are some chemicals that may be used in the neutralization of the chlorine.

Sodium Metabisulfite

• Sodium metabisulfite (chemical formula Na2S2O5) is also called disodium disulfite, pyrosulfurous acid and disodium salt. It is often used in the dechlorination of swimming pools, or to lower its chlorine levels. Water treatment plants employ the substance to remove trace of excessive chlorine. Sodium metabisulfite is an effective bleach neutralizer. 2.2 grams (one teaspoon) of sodium metabisulfite added to 2.5 gallons of water effectively neutralizes all harmful bleach residue.

Sodium Sulfite

 

• Sodium sulfite (chemical formula Na2SO3) is an effective, fast and cheap bleach neutralizer that is easily available at most swimming pool chemical vendors. It is typically used to stabilize high levels of chlorine in a swimming pool, and is sold under the trade names De-Chlor and Knock Down.

Ascorbic Acid

• Ascorbic acid (chemical formula C6H8O6) is used commercially to neutralize bleach in water storage tanks. Bleach, which is added to water tanks as a disinfectant, needs to be completely eliminated before the water is fit for drinking or agricultural purposes. Ascorbic acid neutralizes all residual bleach in a matter of seconds, and 1/4 tsp. of the substance added to 1 gallon of water effectively removes all traces of bleach.

Sodium Thiosulfate

• Sodium thiosulfate (Na2S2O3) is used in spas to lower bromine and chlorine levels. It is a valuable bleach neutralizer, and is just as effective as sodium metabisulfite, even though it is slightly more expensive.

Caution

• Acids besides those mentioned in this article should not be used in an effort to neutralize bleach. Vinegar is one such substance that is erroneously purported to have a neutralizing effect on bleach. Instead, vinegar acts on the hypochlorite content of bleach, turning it into hypochlorous acid and other dangerous chemicals. Hypochlorous acid can convert to deadly chlorine gas in a low pH solution.

Hydrogen Peroxide will also neutralize Chlorine Bleach.

 

 

[Guest Andrew D]

How do you apply these neutralizers? thanks

[Apple Roof Cleaning (813) 655-8777]

How do you apply these neutralizers? thanks

​Probably in what is callled a hose end sprayer, like the ones used too apply fertilizer

[Sussex County Roof Cleaning]

This is a great post and should be a sticky. I new hydrogen peroxide was good for plants, but didn't know it neutralized our SH. 

[Sussex County Roof Cleaning]

Do you think it would be better to apply the Hydro. Pero. before or after the roof cleaning?

[andy hinson]

What about gypsum?

[PeakOfPerfection]

These will all neutralize the chlorine content, but not the sodium content in the runoff. Matter of fact, most of them ARE sodium compounds. Gypsum is the ticket for excess sodium in soils. That being said, having one of these on hand to wet down plants/decks with would be good (I'd lean towards Ascorbic acid).

[Apple Roof Cleaning (813) 655-8777]

These will all neutralize the chlorine content, but not the sodium content in the runoff. Matter of fact, most of them ARE sodium compounds. Gypsum is the ticket for excess sodium in soils. That being said, having one of these on hand to wet down plants/decks with would be good (I'd lean towards Ascorbic acid).

​I guess it could be applied either in a dedicated rinse water tank, or with a hose end sprayer attached to a garden hose from the customers water spicket ?