Most homeowners look at their pools as a source of relaxation, entertainment, fitness and even beauty. And while there is no doubt that swimming pools add to the value of a home for the pure enjoyment of its use over the years as well as for resale value if and when that time comes, swimming pools need special care to ensure they are maintained properly and that the water is healthy for swimming. One of the most important elements of keeping the pool water sanitized is chlorine.
While some people may have a negative connotation about this chemical, it is safe for swimming in (when properly balanced) and essential for keeping the pool water healthy. Aquaman Pools LLC shares some interesting facts about chlorine’s role in swimming pools and when to call a professional (Side note: Aquaman Pools’ professional pool techs area always standing by to help!)
Pool water shouldn’t smell like chlorine. Some people may have memories of their youth getting out of a friend’s or the community pool with stinging red eyes, itchy skin and the smell (and even taste — yuck!) of chlorine. While that may have seemed then as a sign of a clean and chemically balanced pool, it actually means the pool was over chlorinated. Pool water that is properly balanced with the right amount of chlorine shouldn’t be irritating to skin or eyes and it definitely shouldn’t be able to be detected by scent or taste.
The more the pool is used, the more chlorine will need to be added. Using a chlorine float and adding a few tabs in on a weekly basis when pool usage is heavy is usually all it takes to maintain healthy pool water. However, it’s essential to test the water, or have it tested, weekly to ensure chlorine levels (and all other chemical levels) are at their peak levels.
Salt water pools use chlorine. Many people believe that salt water pools are an alternative to using chlorine in the pool. While the salt system does require less chlorine, the chemical is still a necessary part of keeping the pool water clean and healthy. Typically, salt water pools don’t necessitate the use of a chlorine float to slowly distribute the chemical, chlorine is still generated through the pool’s filtration system.
With a salt water pool system, the pump is a crucial part of the production and distribution of chlorine. It should be run daily for at least eight hours. However, individual pool owners should check with their pool service professional to see how often then recommend the pump to be running on any specific pool.
Ever wonder why more chlorine needs to be added in the summertime? In addition to more heavy use, sunlight can be detrimental to chlorine. So be extra vigilant about chlorine levels in the summer.
Chlorine is an essential part of keeping the swimming pool sanitized and safe for swimming, in any season. For any chlorine-related questions or to have an Aquaman Pools’ professional pool technician check to ensure your pool’s chlorine is up to par, call today!
