Every
sanitizer has two key functions, to
sanitize (kill bacteria and all living
organisms) and also oxidize (destroy
contaminants and waste). The most
popular pool and spa sanitizer is
chlorine. Chlorine is also classified as
a disinfectant, meaning that it is
capable of killing bacteria, algae and
other organic material instantly. All
chlorine does the same thing when it is
added to the water, regardless of the
type of chlorine added. It forms free
available chlorine. Free chlorine is
the form of chlorine that kills
bacteria, algae and disease-causing
organisms. It is the attack dog that
guards your pool against microbiotic
intruders. (In general, you wouldn’t
want a dog in the pool, but this is an
exception.)
You must maintain free chlorine at a
sufficient level to disinfect potential
contaminants on contact. The more
chlorine in the water, the more it can
sanitize and oxidize the water.
(Remember that sanitizing and oxidizing
are the processes that chlorine uses to
keep the water clear and clean.)
However, if the free chlorine level gets
too high, it can make the water
uncomfortable for swimmers. The trick is
to keep the free chlorine level in the
ideal range. In a swimming pool, keep
free chlorine at a minimum of 1 ppm
(parts per million) and a maximum of 10
ppm, with an ideal concentration of 1 to
3 ppm.
In spas the level needs to be maintained
at a slightly higher level due to the
smaller volume and higher temperature.
The minimum level should be 2 ppm in a
spa, again no higher than 10 ppm, and
ideally 3 to 5 ppm.
For more detailed advice on the specific
chemical treatment for your pool or spa,
contact your dealer.
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