Swimming Pool Chlorination Problems

Simply checking chlorine levels daily helps prevent potential contamination problems.

Chlorine is the most popular disinfectant for swimming pools, according to the North Carolina Division of Environmental Health. The chemical is a quick and persistent water sanitizer, an effective algaecide and is a useful contaminant oxidizer.

Wrong Chlorine Levels

According to Healthy Pools, chlorine should be between two and four parts per million. Failure to maintain these levels can result in skin irritation, a strong odor and a build-up of bacteria, harmful microorganisms and algae. Chlorine should be monitored daily--or hourly if the pool is heavily used.

Failure to Superchlorinate

A strong chlorine odor can actually indicate the need for a shock or superchlorination treatment. As chlorine combines with contaminants, it produces strong-smelling chloramine molecules. Shock treatments oxidize ammonia and nitrogen compounds while destroying organic contaminants, according to Healthy Pools. Superchlorination kills disease-causing microorganisms while leaving a residual of chlorine for continual cleaning. One of these treatments should be done one to three times a week, depending on frequency of use, temperature and local regulations.

Health Problems

Numerous health problems can result from improperly maintained chlorine levels. Diarrhea, Legionnaires' disease and athlete's foot, as well as ear, skin, eye and respiratory infections are a few examples of these potential problems.

References

• Healthy Pools: Healthy Pools Mean Healthy Swimming
• North Carolina Division of Environmental Health: Water Chemistry for Swimming Pools
• Healthy Pools: Swimming Pool FAQs