Ammonia (Pool Water)
Ammonia in pool water is the primary nitrogen source for chloramine formation, introduced by bather waste including sweat and urine.
Definition
Ammonia in pool water is the primary nitrogen source for chloramine formation, introduced by bather waste including sweat and urine.
Typical Values: No target value — ammonia should be consumed by free chlorine before it accumulates
In Plain Language
Ammonia (NH3) reacts with free chlorine to form chloramines — the source of pool odour and eye irritation. Every swimmer introduces approximately 70 mg of urea (which converts to ammonia) per hour of swimming. The presence of significant ammonia in pool water is a sign of high bather load without adequate free chlorine to react with and neutralise it before it forms chloramines.
Why It Matters
Ammonia input from bathers is unavoidable. Managing chlorine levels to stay ahead of ammonia input prevents chloramine accumulation.
Typical Values
No target value — ammonia should be consumed by free chlorine before it accumulates
Last reviewed: 2026-06-01