As a child, you quickly learn that pool water is different from bath water. They smell different, they taste different, and they affect your hair and your skin in different ways. The big difference between the two is sodium hypochlorite, more commonly known as chlorine but not to be confused with the chemical element chlorine (which is the basis for sodium hypochlorite). This bleaching solution is added to most all public and private swimming pools, but you would never find it in a bathtub. So why is chlorine used in pools? Let’s find out . . .

Why Is Chlorine Used in Pools?

Why Is Chlorine Used in Pools?

We use chlorine to clean our pools. Chlorine is a disinfectant that sanitizes the water in swimming pools through a chemical reaction. When chlorine is added to pool water, hypochlorous acid is formed. It kills bacteria, eliminates pathogens, and controls algae, so your pool is cleaner and safer. Pool owners have been using chlorine for decades, but the idea caught on nationally in the 1920s. These days, it’s rare to find a pool that doesn’t incorporate chlorine.

For truly beautiful and clean pool water, chlorine must be combined with other pool chemicals and mechanisms like a quality filter, shock, a pH water test (or test strips), and a vacuum. When joined in the right combination, these products can improve the clarity of pool water, inhibit the growth of algae, and make the water safe for swimmers.

Purchasing Chlorine

After a homeowner first purchases a pool, it is recommended that they work with a pool professional to learn when to add chlorine to their pool, how to add chlorine, and how much chlorine to use.

Typically, chlorine is added to a pool in either a liquid form or a solid form (tablets or sticks). A gas form is also available, but it is not very common. The active ingredient in all chlorine products is the same, whether you’re looking at a bottle of liquid chlorine, a 3-inch tablet, or a stick. However, the concentration of the active ingredient will differ. Pay attention to this detail when purchasing your chlorine.

Safety Tips

Chlorine is an extremely effective chemical solution, but it must be handled carefully. Use the following tips for help, but be sure to also read and follow the directions on the product you purchase.

  • Keep all pool chemicals away from children and pets.
  • Store pool chemicals in a safe, secure, dark, and dry place.
  • Wash your hands after handling chlorine products.
  • Only use chlorine products in well-ventilated areas.
  • Do not mix different pool chemicals together.
  • Always read the labels on the pools chemicals you purchase to ensure that you understand the products’ composition, directions, and safety information.

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Do you need chlorine for your pool and live in or near Springfield, Missouri? Contact the top pool builder in the area: Fishel Pools. With nearly forty years of experience, you can feel confident trusting us with the design, installation, and upkeep of your residential or commercial pool. Fishel Pools Early Buy Pool Chemical Sale is going on, be sure to check it out! Call Fishel Pools Monday-Friday 8am-4pm or stop by our showroom at 1856 S Stewart Ave. Springfield MO. We would be happy to walk you through any pool chemical questions you might have before the 2015 season starts. During our Early Buy Sale depending on how much you spend on pool chemicals that how much you save. Buy in bulk now and have your chemicals delivered at the beginning of the season! For more information, please give us a call at 417-886-6699. We look forward to hearing from you!