How to Use Liquid Chlorine in a Swimming Pool

When combined with water, chlorine forms a type of acid that kills bacteria. You need only a little chlorine to kill bacteria in your pool and keep it safe for swimmers. In high concentrations, chlorine can be hazardous to your health.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Exercise caution while using liquid chlorine. In high concentrations in water, chlorine can create a gas that may hamper breathing. If you inhale enough pure chlorine gas, you could pass out. In some cases, chlorine gas is fatal.

2. Wear protective safety gear when working with chlorine. Safety gear includes goggles and gloves. Rinse your eyes thoroughly and contact your care provider if chlorine splashes into them. Rinse any skin that comes in contact with chlorine and watch for signs of irritation.

3. Use a diaphragm or peristaltic pump when adding liquid chlorine to a pool, since it can be corrosive.

4. Add your liquid chlorine to your pool in the evening for maximum effectiveness. Pour it in close to the surface.

5. Calculate the amount of liquid chlorine to use. Use the calculator designed for this by Utah's Bureau of Epidemiology (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Store liquid chlorine in a shady spot.
• Never mix chlorine with anything or you may inadvertently create an explosion.

Resources

• Go to Utah's Bureau of Epidemiology for chlorine calculations.