If your pool's total chlorine levels are too high, taking steps to reduce it is important for comfortable swimming. You can lower high chlorine levels by stopping the addition of chlorine, removing the pool cover to allow sunlight degradation, using chemical reducing agents, or diluting the water by draining and refilling. Throughout this process, consistent testing is key to monitoring your progress.
Maintaining the correct chemical balance in your swimming pool is vital for safety and enjoyment. While chlorine is necessary for sanitizing pool water, excessively high levels can cause skin irritation, eye discomfort, and damage to pool equipment and surfaces. Bringing the level back into the recommended range ensures a healthy swimming environment.
Effective Methods to Reduce Pool Chlorine
Based on common practices for pool maintenance, several methods can be employed to decrease the concentration of total chlorine in your water.
Stop Adding Chlorine
The most straightforward approach to begin lowering chlorine levels is to stop adding chlorine into the pool. If you use an automatic chlorinator, turn it off. Remove any floating tablets or pucks from skimmers or dispensers. This halts the source of the chemical, allowing existing chlorine to dissipate.
Remove the Pool Cover
Sunlight is a natural enemy of chlorine. By removing the pool cover, you expose the water to UV rays, which help break down and reduce chlorine levels over time. This method works best on sunny days and can be quite effective for moderate excesses.
Use Chemical Agents to Reduce Chlorine Levels
Specific chemical agents are available that are designed to neutralize or reduce chlorine in pool water. Products containing sodium thiosulfate or similar compounds can be added to the pool water to rapidly decrease chlorine levels. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully regarding dosage based on your pool volume and current chlorine level.
Drain Some Water and Refill the Pool
A practical way to lower the concentration of any chemical in pool water is through dilution. You can drain some water and refill the pool with fresh water. This replaces chlorinated water with water that has little to no chlorine, effectively lowering the overall concentration. This method is particularly useful for significantly high chlorine levels.
The Importance of Testing
Regardless of the method you choose to lower chlorine, it is crucial to keep testing your pool water regularly. Use a reliable test kit or test strips to monitor the total chlorine level as it decreases. Continue testing until the water reaches the desired range (typically 1-3 ppm for free chlorine, which often correlates with total chlorine in a properly managed pool, though total chlorine includes combined chlorine). Consistent testing ensures you don't over-correct and allows you to swim safely once levels are balanced.
By applying these steps, you can effectively manage and reduce high total chlorine levels, returning your pool water to a safe and comfortable state for swimming.
