Think Your Pool Smells From Too Much Chlorine? Think Again. Uncover the Hidden Reason Behind Pool Odor & How To Get Rid of It.
Are you tired of that “pool chlorine smell” every time you swim? Or have you ever wondered why some pools smell worse than others? While it might bring back nostalgic memories of summers past, that strong smell is actually a sign of unhealthy water and air quality.
Contrary to popular belief, that strong pool smell isn’t from too much chlorine but from something else: combined chlorine, or chloramines. Combined chlorine is the result (or the disinfection by-product) of chlorine in pool water reacting with sweat, oils, skin cells and other organics. This combined chlorine is the main culprit of the pungent pool “chlorine” smell, red eyes and irritated skin.
The good news? Pool smell is a fixable problem. We’ll explore ways you can keep your swimming pool feeling and smelling fresh without harmful combined chlorine odors. By understanding the difference between free chlorine and combined chlorine and implementing proper pool maintenance, you can swim in pristine water free from unhealthy odors.
Understanding Pool Chlorine Smell: Free Chlorine vs. Combined Chlorine
Combined chlorine, or chloramines, forms when chlorine reacts to sweat, urine, dirt, lotions, skin cells, deodorant, makeup and other substances swimmers bring into the pool. With poor ventilation, combined chlorine can turn into gas that spreads through the air. Therefore, combined chlorine can irritate eyes, skin and lungs.
When chlorine is added to pool water, it releases two active chemicals: hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ion. These chemicals together are known as “free available chlorine” (FAC) because they are ready to sanitize the water. This free chlorine is the chlorinated water that has not interacted with any contaminants in the water. Proper FAC levels mean the chlorine can effectively kill bacteria and other contaminants. Problems occur when there are too many contaminants in the water, causing FAC levels to drop, which reduces the chlorine’s effectiveness.
When hypochlorous acid reacts with ammonia (found in sweat and urine), it forms combined chlorine. Combined chlorine is a less effective sanitizer and the main cause of red eyes, skin irritation and the strong pool chlorine smell.
Additionally, after too much exposure, combined chlorine can contribute to developing lung health problems, like Lifeguard Lung, chlorine cough, asthma and allergies. So, it’s best to keep your pool’s combined chlorine levels to a minimum.
How to Get Rid of Pool Smell (+ Combined Chlorine)
If you want to get rid of pool chlorine smell and the eye, skin and lung irritation that comes with it, you’re not alone. Combined chlorine is the main culprit behind these issues, but the good news is you can easily tackle them. So, use these few straightforward methods to keep your pool water smelling and feeling fresh.
Let’s dive into the most effective ways to reduce or eliminate combined chlorine, so you can enjoy an odor-free, healthy and refreshing swimming experience.
1. Use a Chlorine Shock
Shocking your pool with extra chlorine once a week can help destroy the ammonia and contaminants that cause combined chlorine. This process increases free available chlorine (FAC) levels, reducing odor and improving water quality. Regular shocking is simple and effective, but be mindful of chlorine sensitivity and always follow pool chemical safety guidelines.
However, adding more chlorine is a short-term fix. Constantly shocking your pool can create a cycle where you need more and more chlorine to keep it effective. Over time, this can lead to higher overall chlorine levels, which might still cause irritation and odor issues, especially with heavy pool use and more swimmers.
2. Try a Non-Chlorine Pool Shock
Use non-chlorine shock treatments to oxidize and sanitize pool water. These are ideal for people with chlorine sensitivity. Non-chlorine shocks break down contaminants without adding more chlorine, helping to control combined chlorine levels and reduce odors.
Benefits of Non-Chlorine Pool Shock:
- Gentle on Skin and Eyes: Ideal for swimmers sensitive to chlorine.
- Effective Oxidation: Breaks down organic contaminants effectively.
- Maintains Chlorine Levels: Helps keep chlorine levels stable, reducing the need for constant adjustments.
3. Add Alternative Pool Sanitation
Alternative pool sanitation systems are the best way to keep odor-causing combined chlorine levels low. Additionally, these systems enhance water quality, reduce chlorine usage and protect against chlorine-resistant viruses like Cryptosporidium. Hydroxyl-Based AOP pool systems (advanced oxidation process) are particularly highly effective, low maintenance and best practice for minimizing odor and combined chlorine. The top alternative pool sanitizers include:
- Hydroxyl-Based AOP Pool Systems: Use a patented AOP technology to create powerful oxidizers that break down contaminants and combined chlorine.
- Ozone + UV AOP Pool Systems: Combine ozone and UV light to provide oxidation, reducing combined chlorine.
- Ozone Pool Systems: Use ozone gas to oxidize contaminants and combined chlorine, reducing the need for chlorine.
- UV Pool Systems: Use ultraviolet (UV) light to kill bacteria and viruses, reducing the formation of combined chlorine.
Advantages of Alternative Sanitizers:
- Long-Term Solution: Alternative pool sanitizers provide continuous sanitation, reducing the need for weekly shocks.
- Ease of Maintenance: These systems automate much of the sanitation process, making pool care easier.
- Enhanced Water Quality: These systems effectively break down combined chlorine, keeping water clear and odor-free.
- Reduced Chlorine Dependence: Lowers the need for frequent chlorine additions, which means less irritation and odor.
- Effective Against Resistant Viruses: Protects against pathogens that chlorine alone may not handle.
4. Properly maintain your pool chemistry
Regularly test your pool water to ensure it’s chemistry is properly balanced. Maintaining proper pH and chlorine levels is crucial for preventing combined chlorine formation. Remember, consistent water care keeps your pool fresh, clean and safe for swimming.
Tips for Maintaining Pool Chemistry:
- Regular Testing: Test your pool water at least twice a week.
- Balance pH Levels: Keep pH between 7.2 and 7.6 for optimal chlorine effectiveness.
- Monitor Chlorine Levels: Maintain free available chlorine (FAC) levels based on your pool’s sanitation method.
- Use Pool Care Kits: Invest in quality pool care kits for accurate testing and maintenance.
Less Smell, More Refreshing Pool Water
While some like that nostalgic “pool chlorine smell,” it’s actually a sign of unhealthy water. This odor signals the presence of combined chlorine, which form when chlorine reacts with contaminants. Combined chlorine can irritate your eyes, skin and lungs, indicating that the pool is not properly sanitized.
Ensuring your pool is free from combined chlorine not only enhances your swimming experience but also protects your health. Therefore, proper maintenance, using non-chlorine shocks, and investing in alternative sanitizers like Hydroxyl-Based AOP can keep your water fresh and odor-free. Moreover, regular testing and balancing prevent combined chlorine formation and maintain water quality.
Above all, a well-maintained pool smells and feels fresh. By reducing combined chlorine and embracing alternative sanitation, you can enjoy a healthier, more refreshing swim. Ultimately, your pool will be more inviting, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing it’s safe and protected.
Originally published on March 9, 2019, Updated August 6, 2024.
