Keeping your swimming pool or Jacuzzi clear of harmful microorganisms is a task often entrusted to chlorine. This chemical works its magic through a relatively straightforward process, attacking the lipids in cell walls and dismantling the enzymes and structures within cells. This oxidizes and renders the microorganisms harmless. The key difference between HOCl and OCl- lies in their oxidation rates. Hypochlorous acid swiftly oxidizes organisms within seconds, while the hypochlorite ion may take up to 30 minutes.
The effectiveness of OCl and HOCl- depends on the pool’s pH level. If the pH is too high, there’s insufficient HOCl, and pool cleaning takes longer than usual. Ideally, the pool’s pH should range between 7 and 8, with 7.4 being optimal – mirroring the pH of human tears. After completing their cleaning duties, HOCl and OCl- either combine with other chemicals, like ammonia, or break down into single atoms, rendering the chlorine harmless. Sunlight expedites these processes, necessitating the continuous addition of chlorine as it breaks down.
While chlorine’s bacteria-killing abilities are invaluable, it comes with some downsides. The distinct and often unpleasant odor of chlorine is one, along with the potential to cause itching and irritation in certain skin types. The hypochlorite ion can quickly fade fabrics if not rinsed off promptly after leaving the pool, contributing to the premature wear and tear of swimsuits.
Moreover, excessive chlorine gas lingering above your pool can pose respiratory risks. Some alternatives to chlorine, such as different chemicals and ion generators, have been developed by various companies. While these can be viable options, they may not match chlorine in terms of cleanliness, oxidation levels, and cost-effectiveness.
