Swimming Pool Chlorine: The Most Effective Solution for Complete Disinfection

Pool chlorine is the world's most widely used disinfectant for water maintenance. Its proven effectiveness in eliminating organic matter and other contaminants makes it the essential chemical in any water treatment system. In addition, it is economical, easy to apply and compatible with most filtration systems. At Quimipool we offer you a complete range of chlorine products, including fast chlorine, slow chlorine, liquid, granular and multifunctional, adapted to every need and type of pool.

why choose chlorine for water maintenance?

• High disinfectant efficacy: chlorine destroys pathogenic microorganisms and prevents algae formation.
• Versatility of use: available in multiple formats and presentations for all types of pools and situations.
• Cost-benefit performance: its low price compared to other treatments allows keeping the water clean all year round with a minimum investment.
• Easy dosage and control: chlorine concentration can be easily measured with analysis kits.
• Ideal complement to other treatments: such as flocculants, pH regulators or algaecides.

how does chlorine work in a swimming pool?

Chlorine acts through a chemical process known as oxidation. Once added to water, it is converted into hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hypochlorite ion (OCl-), both of which are responsible for disinfection. This process eliminates harmful microorganisms, prevents algae growth and neutralizes organic compounds such as sweat or saliva.

The effectiveness of chlorine is directly related to the pH level of the water. A pH of between 7.2 and 7.6 ensures that the chlorine acts optimally. If the pH is too high, chlorine loses effectiveness; if it is too low, it can cause eye and skin irritation.

It is also important to distinguish between:

• Free chlorine: that which is active and available to disinfect.
• Combined chlorine: that which has already reacted with contaminants and has lost effectiveness.
• Total chlorine: the sum of both.

Main characteristics

Types of chlorine according to their speed of action:

• Slow chlorine: in long-dissolving tablets (usually 250 g). It is used in daily maintenance. It requires continuous dosing by means of skimmer or floating doser.
• Fast chlorine: granulated or powdered, dissolves quickly to recover water after storms, high bather load or when cloudy water is detected. Ideal for "shock treatments".
• Liquid chlorine: applied directly to the water or through automatic dosing systems. Widely used in public or community pools.
• Multifunctional chlorine: combines chlorine with algaecide, flocculant and pH corrector in a single tablet. Specially designed for users looking for simplicity in maintenance.

Compatibility with the type of pool:

Chlorine can be used in pools lined with gresite, liner, shotcrete or fiber. Some formulas are especially suitable for liner or polyester pools.

Control and maintenance:

• It is recommended to measure free chlorine daily during the swimming season.
• Maintain chlorine between 1-3 ppm and pH between 7.2 and 7.6.
• In winter or when the pool is not in use, reduce the frequency of application.

Available presentations:

• 20 g or 250 g tablets (the normal format is 5 kg).
• Liquid chlorine in 5 to 20 liter bottles.

Comparison between models (indicative table)

Buying Guide: Which type of chlorine is best for you?

Depending on the type of user and pool:

• Family pools with regular use: slow chlorine in tablets combined with a floating doser or skimmer for stable maintenance.
• Pools with intensive use or adverse conditions: Granulated fast chlorine for shock treatments in case of cloudy water, rain or organic matter accumulation.
• Large volume installations or with automation systems: Liquid chlorine dosed by dosing pump with automatic control.
• Users who want convenience and low maintenance: Multifunctional chlorine that allows to control several parameters in a single application.

Explanation of technical terms:

• ppm (parts per million): unit of measurement indicating the concentration of chlorine in water.
• Oxidation: process by which chlorine breaks down organic contaminants.
• Alkalinity: ability of water to neutralize acids. A balanced level stabilizes the pH.
• Stabilizer (isocyanuric acid): protects chlorine from degradation by UV rays in outdoor pools.