Incorrect chlorine levels

 
Incorrect chlorine levels

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The Problem

When people complain that a pool smells like it has too much chlorine, the problem could be too much Total Chlorine (TC) and not enough Free Available Chlorine (FAC).

If you've added sanitizer or shock and still can't get a reading, or your favorite swim suit shows signs of bleaching, the problem may be too much Free Available Chlorine (FAC).

Recommended solutions

  • For high Total Chlorine (TC): Shock treat the pool using an hth® shock product. For additional help, contact one of our hth® pool care experts.
  • For high Free Available Chlorine (FAC): Stop adding chlorine. Allow the FAC levels to decrease to 1-4 ppm. For additional help contact one of our hth® pool care experts.

    Preventative maintenance

    • Verify pool volume and use the correct product dosage.
    • Test FAC and maintain 1-4 ppm.
    • Shock treat the pool weekly and after heavy rains or heavy bather loads.

    As always, we’re here to help. If you have questions, contact our help line at 1-866-HTH-POOL or talk to our experts with our live chat!

    Caution

    Please read the following important reminders before adding pool chemicals to water:

    • NEVER mix products together or dissolve before use.

    • ONLY enter pool when FAC levels are below 4 ppm to prevent risk of bodily harm.