Residual chlorine is a crucial index in managing swimming pool water quality. So, what is the ideal level of residual chlorine in swimming pools? And why is it so important for maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the pool? This article introduces the concept of residual chlorine in swimming pool water, analyzes its impact on water quality, explores the causes of its occurrence, and suggests solutions.
The concentration of residual chlorine in swimming pool water is a primary indicator for assessing the quality of the pool environment. When we use chlorine for disinfection, some effective residual chlorine remains in the water over time. The residual chlorine in swimming pool water, usually free chlorine, is referred to as an “active substance” in the disinfection process.
If the level of residual chlorine in the pool is maintained within a certain range, it can ensure its bactericidal effect without harming the body. However, if the residual chlorine is too high or too low, it can have adverse effects. For instance, excessive residual chlorine can irritate the skin and mucous membranes, and in severe cases, cause respiratory allergies. Additionally, residual chlorine can react with certain substances in the water to produce carcinogens like chloroform. Prolonged swimming in such pools might increase the risk of cancer. Insufficient residual chlorine results in poor disinfection, failing to eliminate pathogens, bacteria, and viruses in the pool water, thus significantly increasing the risk of virus transmission.
Main Causes of Excessive Residual Chlorine in Pools
Insufficient Replacement of Fresh Water
During pool operation, water loss due to evaporation, splashing, and swimmers entering and leaving the pool causes a decrease in pool water. If fresh water is not replenished timely as required, the concentration of chemical components in the water, including residual chlorine, will increase. Adding fresh water is crucial as it dilutes the chemical components and maintains water balance.
Unscientific Addition of Disinfectants
A scientific and rational method of adding disinfectants is key to controlling residual chlorine concentration. Improper dosing methods, inaccuracy, and uneven distribution can also lead to excessive residual chlorine. Specialized automatic dosing systems can control the use and distribution of chemicals more accurately, which is difficult with manual dosing.
Issues with Water Circulation Systems and Disinfection Equipment
A good water circulation and sterilization system is essential to ensure the water quality of swimming pools. If these facilities are not installed according to regulations or used improperly, it will affect the purification and sterilization effect of the water. Problems or failures in the circulation system can cause accumulation of substances in the water, reducing the effectiveness of the drugs.
Uncertainty of Manual Dosing
The biggest difficulty with manual dosing is its uncertainty. It’s hard to know whether the disinfectant has been used up, and the distribution of the solution can cause changes in water quality. Excessive or insufficient residual chlorine can adversely affect the quality of swimming pool water and the health of swimmers.
Solutions for Excessive Residual Chlorine in Pools
Use a Residual Chlorine Tester
Determine the amount of residual chlorine in the water and add an appropriate amount of fresh water to the pool to ensure the residual chlorine meets the required standards. (Note: If the addition of water is excessive and the residual amount exceeds the standard, add an appropriate amount of fresh water to the pool and turn on the circulation system to evenly distribute the solution; calculate the required dosage for the next disinfectant addition according to the formula to avoid overdose; or use an automatic dosing barrel for scientific dosing!)
Add Chlorine Neutralizer
Chlorine neutralizers can quickly reduce the chlorine content in the water. Under normal circumstances, if the residual amount exceeds the standard, it can be resolved in a few minutes, ensuring that the residual amount does not exceed national standards.
By understanding the residual chlorine in swimming pool water, analyzing its hazards, discussing the causes of these issues, and proposing corresponding countermeasures, monitoring and adjusting the chlorine content in swimming pool water is key to maintaining clean water and ensuring swimmers’ health. If appropriate measures are taken and regular maintenance is performed, excessive residual chlorine in the water can be prevented, providing swimmers with a safe and hygienic environment.