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Swimming Pool is an important amenity in most of residential complexes and recreational centers. Maintaining the pool water in healthy condition is very important as it impacts the health of everyone using it. Real time monitoring of parameters is critical in maintaining the health and hygiene of pool water as the water gets contaminated by means of sweat, dirt, leaves, insects, etc. While the physical contaminants can be identified by naked eyes, it is impossible to gauge the level of contamination by chemical and biological contaminants. Hence, we need to monitor certain parameters constantly, as discussed below:

Chlorine: It disinfects the pool water and keeps the pool safe. But, it’s a challenge for pool operators to decide on the level of Free Chlorine available in pool water.

Types of Free Chlorine:

Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) and Hypochlorite ion (OCl-) Most effective form of Free Chlorine: Hypochlorous acid Among these, Hypochlorous Acid is more effective in disinfecting pool.

The chlorine level should stay between 1.0 and 3.0 parts per million (ppm) to maintain a healthy pool. Any higher will make you to run the risk of red eyes and swimmers itch.

pH: Maintaining the optimal pH value is necessary for bather comfort and effective chlorine functioning.

Ideal pH value for Pool - 7.2 and 7.8

Swimmer Discomfort for pH < 7.2 or pH > 7.8

Reduced sanitation activity of chlorine if pH > 7.8

Effect of pH on Free Chlorine and sanitization activity:

As the pH increases, pool water becomes alkaline and reduces the concentration of Hypochlorous Acid as indicated below:

HOCL + OH- <=> OCL- + H2O; Hence with increase in pH, effective form of Free Chlorine decreases.

ORP (Oxidation Reduction Potential): Gives a measure of the sanitization activity of chlorine. ORP value is highly sensitive to fluctuations in hypochlorous acid. Hence with increase in pH, effective form of Free Chlorine decreases.

Conclusion: Monitoring pH and ORP are critical to maintaining the health of Swimming Pool water.