Is your pool’s chlorine level way too high? When the pool’s chlorine level becomes too high it is not safe to swim in. If you have a planned pool party or need to cool off you may wonder how to lower the chlorine level fast. Metropolitan Pools will share some of the common reasons why a pool chlorine level can become too high and a few tricks on how to lower those chlorine levels.
Why is My Chlorine Level High?
There is usually only one reason why a pool will have high levels of chlorine, and that is by over-chlorinating the pool. In some cases the pool is intentionally over-chlorinated when the pool water turns green with algae or to fight other microorganisms in the water. Chlorine is the pool’s hygienic cleaners and kills microorganisms that are in the water. However, the pool may have been over-chlorinated on accident.
Symptoms of Too Much Chlorine in Water
When the pool’s chlorine level is too high, the pool should not be swam in until the chlorine drops to safer levels. When swimming in an over-chlorinated pool, the swimmer may feel skin and eye irritations, rashes, and respiratory problems. It is also possible to have chlorine poisoning which can include:
• Wheezing or Shallow Breath
• Chest Pain or Tightness
• Coughing or Burning in the Throat
• Dizziness, Nausea or Vomiting
Chlorine & pH Level in Pool
Another contributing factor that can cause changes in the chlorine’s level is the pH level. For the chlorine to work properly you will want to maintain your pool’s pH level between 7.4 to 7.6. If the pool’s pH level is 8 or higher it is important to lower the pH along with the chlorine. High levels of pH and chlorine can damage the pool, the filtering system and even the swimsuit.
How to Lower Chlorine Levels in Pool
If your pool chlorine level are too high, your first step is to remove the chlorine tablet from your pool basket and or floater. Basically stop adding chlorine to the pool. If you are not in a hurry, simply avoid adding chlorine to the pool and allow the sun to break down the chlorine. The UV rays from the sun does cause chlorine to dissipate which is why you always need to add chlorine to a pool. Simply uncover your pool and the sun light does its work. It may take a day to two before the chlorine level drops to safer levels but is the simplest way to lower chlorine. If you are in a hurry to lower the pool’s chlorine levels, you can start by turning on the pool’s heater, if present. For those with heated pools, you can warm the water to about 90 to 100 degrees. The heat will break down the chlorine faster. Be sure to monitor the chlorine level and turn off the heating system once the desired levels are met. If you do not have a pool heating system, you can dilute the pool’s water. Put the hose into the pool and fill up the pool with as much water as possible. Another option is by adding hydrogen peroxide that is formulated for pools, into the water. The hydrogen peroxide will also affect the pH level so watch them and make the needed adjustments.
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If your pool chemical levels have been unstable, you can always contact a professional like Metropolitan Pools. We can help ensure chemical balance in your home’s pool and more. For quality pool services, contact Metropolitan Pools today.