Besides Chlorine, What Chemicals Are Put into Swimming Pools?

In addition to chlorine, other chemicals commonly added to swimming pools include:

  • Cyanuric acid (CYA): Stabilizes chlorine and prevents it from breaking down in sunlight. Can cause skin and eye irritation.
  • Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda): Raises pH and alkalinity, making the water less corrosive.
  • Calcium hypochlorite (cal-hypo): Alternative to chlorine that provides longer-lasting disinfection. Can irritate respiratory system.
  • Sodium chloride (salt): Used in salt water pools, generates chlorine through electrolysis. No skin or eye irritation.
  • Polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB): Alternative to chlorine, kills bacteria and fungi. Can cause allergic reactions.

Health Benefits and Concerns:

  • Chlorine: Kills bacteria and viruses, but can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation.
  • CYA: Can increase the amount of chlorine needed, potentially leading to increased irritation.
  • Sodium bicarbonate: Can buffer the water, reducing chlorine demand.
  • Cal-hypo: Can release calcium deposits, which may scale pool surfaces.
  • PHMB: Can be safe for sensitive swimmers, but may not be as effective as chlorine.

Related Questions:

  1. What is the purpose of cyanuric acid in swimming pools?
  2. Does sodium bicarbonate make pool water more basic?
  3. Which chemical is an alternative to chlorine that does not irritate the skin or eyes?
  4. Can calcium deposits from cal-hypo cause problems in swimming pools?
  5. What is a health concern associated with using PHMB in pools?

Related Hot Sale Products:

  • HTH CLOROX POOL & SPA - Chlorine Tablets
  • PoolRx Chemical-Free Pool Filter Cleaner - Sodium Bicarbonate
  • CMP Aqua Blue - Cal-Hypo
  • Hayward AquaRite - Salt Water Pool Generator
  • Natare CrystalPure - PHMB Pool Sanitizer

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