Chlorine is a powerful sanitizer—it destroys harmful microorganisms by ripping apart their cell structures. Since its discovery in the early 1800s, chlorine has been used in various applications, from industrial processing to disinfecting drinking water and, of course, keeping swimming pools clean and safe.
But like anything, too much of a good thing can cause problems.
Signs You May Be Overdoing It With Chlorine
You might not realize your chlorine levels are too high until you start noticing things like:
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Swimsuits fading unusually fast
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Swimmers complaining of dry, itchy skin
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Red, irritated eyes
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That strong “chlorine smell” (ironically, a sign of imbalance)
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Discoloration or wear on pool surfaces
These aren’t just minor annoyances—they’re signs your pool water needs attention. Over-chlorination can lead to discomfort, equipment wear, and unnecessary chemical expense.
The Solution? Regular Testing and Smart Adjustments
The best way to avoid issues is by testing your pool water frequently. This lets you catch problems early and adjust before they escalate. If you suspect you’re over-chlorinating, try these tips:
1. Adjust Chlorinator or Generator Settings
If you’re using an automatic chlorinator or a saltwater generator, dial the output down. For high chlorine levels, consider turning the system off until the level drops into the ideal range (typically between 1.0 and 3.0 ppm). Adjust in small steps daily, testing after each change until you find the right setting.
2. Reduce Chlorine Input
If you’re using floaters or placing chlorine pucks in the skimmer, reduce the amount or frequency. These devices often expose all the chlorine at once, making it harder to control. Try loading them only partially or spacing out treatments.
3. Balance Your Pool Water
Chlorine effectiveness is strongly influenced by your pool’s pH level. Keep it between 7.2 and 7.8:
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Below 7.2: Chlorine burns off quickly, requiring more to maintain sanitation.
Above 7.8: Chlorine becomes less effective, forcing you to use more to get the same sanitizing power.
At a pH of 8.2, chlorine is only about 15% effective. You’d need nearly five times the usual dose to achieve the same sanitation you’d get at 7.2.
4. Consider Pool Usage
If your pool is used less often—for example, during cooler months—your chlorine demand drops. Adjust your chemical use and pump run time accordingly to avoid over-chlorination.
5. Reevaluate Pump Run Time
Running your pool pump 24/7 isn’t always necessary. Inline feeders dispense chlorine as long as the pump is on. Cutting back pump hours can significantly reduce chlorine dispersion. A timer can help automate this.
6. Check the Expiry on Test Kits
Test strips and reagent kits generally expire within 12–18 months. Using expired or contaminated strips can lead to inaccurate readings. Always dry your hands before handling them and check the date to ensure reliability.
7. Let the Sunlight Help
Removing your pool cover allows sunlight to naturally lower chlorine levels. UV rays from the sun break down chlorine—just be sure to monitor the drop with test strips to avoid going too low.
8. Dilute With Fresh Water
If you’re not in a rush, draining some water and refilling can help bring chlorine levels back to normal. After doing this, be sure to rebalance your water by testing for:
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Free Chlorine: 1.0–3.0 ppm
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pH: 7.2–7.8
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Total Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
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Calcium Hardness: 200–400 ppm
Want to Use Less Chlorine Altogether?
If keeping your chlorine level consistent is a struggle, or if you want to reduce your chlorine use overall, consider switching to a system like Pool FROG®.
Pool FROG uses a combination of low chlorine levels and FROG Minerals to sanitize your water two ways. The result? A consistent chlorine level with only 0.5–1.0 ppm needed.
With Pool FROG, you’ll enjoy:
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Brighter, longer-lasting swimwear
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Softer-feeling water
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Reduced skin and eye irritation
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Less odor and chlorine smell
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Protection for pool surfaces from harsh chemical damage
If you have a FROG® system, FROG® has solutions for over-chlorination. Check out this video:
This information is adapted from FROG® Pool Care. To learn more about FROG® Products, call or visit us at 779 Rt 211 E Suite 8, Middletown NY 10941 or (845)-294-7665.