How Do I Lower Chlorine Residual in a Swimming Pool?

Maintaining a swimming pool takes vigilance.

A swimming pool can be a great recreational diversion for the family, but it does require much care and maintenance. The most important part of maintaining a swimming pool is keeping the chemicals at the proper level. The main chemical used in pools to sanitize the water is chlorine. When the level of chlorine is too high, it can cause chlorine residue and lead to skin and eye irritation. There are several methods that can be employed to reduce chlorine residue.

Things You'll Need

• Sodium thiosulfate
• Sodium sulfite

Instructions

1. Allow the chlorine in the pool to dissipate. If no chlorine is added, the sun and swimmers will deplete the pool water of the extra chlorine. This requires constant monitoring of the chlorine level in the pool so the level does not drop too low.

2. Add sodium thiosulfate to the pool water. This chemical is available at pool stores, and will lower the level of chlorine in the water. Follow the instructions on the package for adding sodium thiosulfate. If too much is added, it could deplete the water of chlorine, making it very difficult to bring it back into balance.

3. Add sodium sulfite to the pool water. This chemical will also lower the level of chlorine. Follow the directions on the package, and do not add too much.

4. Drain a portion of the water from the pool, and replace it with fresh water. This method will dilute the chlorine remaining in the pool, and lower the residue. As with the other methods, if the chlorine level drops too far, you can have a very hard time reaching the proper level again. Start by draining 1/4 of the water in the pool, and check the level of chlorine to determine if more water should be drained.