Sanitizing
Maintaining an adequate residual disinfectant to destroy pathogens in pool water.
Definition
Sanitizing is the ongoing process of maintaining sufficient disinfectant (free chlorine, bromine, or alternative) to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in pool water. Effective sanitization requires maintaining free chlorine above the minimum level for the current CYA concentration, ensuring pH is in the 7.2–7.6 range where HOCl is maximally effective, and providing adequate turnover for the disinfectant to contact all parts of the pool. Sanitizing is distinct from oxidizing — both are needed for safe, clear pool water.
Quick Facts
- Ideal Range
- N/A (depends on disinfectant type and CYA)
Relationships
Outgoing Relationships
- uses → Free Chlorine
- uses → Bromine
- solves → Low Chlorine
- references → CDC
- references → PHTA
Incoming Relationships
- solves ← Low Chlorine
- references ← CDC