How Long Can Pool Water Sit Without Chlorine?
Pool water can sit without Chlorine for 36 to 48 hours. This is because all pools have stagnant water, and this water causes algae to form. Not adding Chlorine to the pool water can cause infections in the ears, gastrointestinal problems, and other illnesses. There are chances of E.coli getting into your body and causing diarrhoea.
Adding Chlorine to pool water is essential as it helps neutralize the effects of bacteria and other microorganisms in the water, and it keeps the water clean and safe for swimmers to swim in it. It prevents the growth of algae too. So, it is a must to add it.
How does Chlorine act after adding it to the swimming pool?
Adding Chlorine to the pool water creates two molecules – a hypochlorite ion (ClO⁻) and hypochlorous acid (HClO). They kill the microorganisms present in the pool by breaking their cell walls, and that way, they keep the pool safe from any threat. Ensure that the pH of the pool water must be somewhere between 7.4 to 7.8.
Is it dangerous to use Chlorine?
Chlorine, in its natural form, is highly dangerous, and direct contact with it can have severe consequences. But, when it gets mixed in pool water in appropriate amounts, its harmful effects go away. The water becomes safe to swim in and keeps the pool clean, killing the bacteria and microbes present in the water by keeping all illnesses at bay.
That being said, it is essential to bathe before diving into the pool and even after you have finished swimming. No one must urinate in the pool.
What happens if I do not add Chlorine to my pool?
If you are immediately using the pool water, then it is okay. But, if the water has been left open and unused for days, it can have some detrimental effects. You can fall sick and also contract an infection. So, it is necessary to add it.
Why do my eyes get red and itchy after swimming?
The itchiness and the eyes turning red are because of a compound formed called Chloramine. Chloramine is formed when Chlorine gets mixed with the pool’s contaminants. It releases a smell that many people confuse with Chlorine. This is an indication that the pool requires more Chlorine.
What are the alternatives to Chlorine?
Here is a list of alternatives that one can use instead of Chlorine. Note that some of them will still require some amount of Chlorine in the:
- PHMB
- Ionization
- Bromine
- Salt Water
- Pristine Blue
- Ultrafiltration
- UV Lighting
- Decreasing the temperature of the pool water.
- Non-Chlorine Shock
- Ozone
Final Takeaway
So, to sum it up, pool water can be left alone without Chlorine for 36 to 48 hours. The absence of Chlorine in the pool water might result in gastrointestinal issues, ear infections, and other ailments. There is a possibility that E. coli will enter your body and cause diarrhoea.
Every one must add Chlorine or its alternatives to their pools before swimming in it. It helps keep the pool clean and kills the microbes that can pose a potential threat.
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