Managing Combined Chlorine in Swimming Pools: Ensuring a Healthier and More Comfortable Swimming Environment

Combined chlorine, often referred to as chloramines, is a byproduct that forms when chlorine interacts with organic materials in the water. Effectively managing combined chlorine levels is essential for providing swimmers with a safe, healthy, and enjoyable swimming experience.

What is Combined Chlorine (Chloramine)?

Combined chlorine, or chloramine, is a result of chlorine reacting with sweat, body lotions, perfumes, and other organic materials that swimmers introduce into the pool. This chemical reaction leads to the formation of chloramines, which can be harmful to swimmers.

While chlorine plays an essential role in disinfecting pool water, when it combines with organic contaminants, it produces chloramines. These compounds are the source of the familiar "chlorine smell" that many associate with swimming pools, but it’s important to note that it is not chlorine itself causing this odor. Instead, it is the chloramines that contribute to the discomfort and irritation often felt by swimmers.

The Importance of Reducing Combined Chlorine

Excessive combined chlorine in pool water can result in a range of health and comfort issues for swimmers, including:

• Dry, itchy, or irritated skin and rashes
• Burning red eyes
• Brittle hair
• Allergies
• Bronchitis
• Asthma

Given these potential risks, reducing combined chlorine levels is crucial for maintaining the health and comfort of everyone using the pool. Reducing combined chlorine ensures a healthier, more pleasant environment for all. It decreases the risk of chemical-related health issues and helps in creating a more enjoyable, clean pool experience.

How to Measure Combined Chlorine Levels

To effectively manage combined chlorine, it is important to regularly measure its concentration in the pool. The formula for determining combined chlorine is:

Total Chlorine (TC) – Free Chlorine (FC) = Combined Chlorine (CC)

This calculation can be done using pool controllers which automatically perform the measurement. By measuring free chlorine (the active chlorine available for disinfection) and total chlorine (which includes both free chlorine and combined chlorine), you can determine the level of combined chlorine in the water.

Methods for Reducing Combined Chlorine

Ozone (O3) is a powerful oxidizing agent that can be introduced into pool water to break down chloramines and other disinfection byproducts. Ozone effectively destroys microorganisms and organic compounds, making it a valuable tool for reducing combined chlorine.

The Bewazon Ozone Technology: A Natural Solution for Pool Hygiene

BWT takes pool water treatment to the next level with its ozone-based water disinfection systems. The Bewazon injects ozone into the pool water, which oxidizes and neutralizes bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms, ensuring that your pool remains hygienic and safe to swim in. It also breaks down organic contaminants, preventing algae formation and helping to preserve the balance of the pool water. 

Ozone treatments can also reduce the chemical load in your pool, lowering the amount of chlorine required and improving the overall comfort of swimmers by reducing eye irritation and skin dryness. The Bewazon Ozone technology is efficient, eco-friendly, and reduces the amount of pool maintenance required over time.

Effectively managing combined chlorine in swimming pools is crucial for creating a healthier and more comfortable environment for swimmers and staff alike. By understanding what combined chlorine is, why it’s harmful, and how to measure and manage its levels, you can reduce the risk of irritation, respiratory issues, and discomfort.