Why Does My Pool Smell Like Chlorine? (And How to Fix It)Updated 2 months ago
That strong "chlorine" smell isn’t actually chlorine—it’s a sign of chloramines, chemicals formed when chlorine reacts with sweat, oils, sunscreen, or urine. Chloramines irritate eyes and skin, but the good news is they’re easy to eliminate. Here’s how to clear the air and keep your pool fresh.
What Are Chloramines?
Chloramines develop when:
Free chlorine breaks down organic contaminants (e.g., body oils, leaves).
The “used” chlorine binds with these contaminants instead of sanitising.
The result is a strong odour, cloudy water, and irritated skin.
Key fix: Break down chloramines by super-chlorinating (shocking) the pool, DO NOT USE STABILISED CHLORINE or CHLORINE WITH ADDED CYANURIC ACID.
Step 1: Test Your Water
Use a test kit to check:
Free Chlorine (ideal: 1–3 ppm).
Total Chlorine (total minus free = chloramine level).
pH (7.2–7.6 for optimal shock effectiveness).
If Total Chlorine is 0.5+ ppm higher than Free Chlorine, it’s time to shock.
Step 2: Shock the Pool
Chlorine Shock
Dose: Follow label instructions (typically 2–5x regular dose).
Ideal for heavy contamination or algae risks.
Wait 8–24 hours before swimming.
Non-Chlorine Shock (Water TechniX Oxi Shock)
Breaks down chloramines without raising chlorine levels.
Safe for swimming after 15–30 minutes.
Pro tip: Shock at dusk to prevent UV rays from degrading chlorine.
Step 3: Improve Circulation & Filtration
Run the pump 8–12 hours post-shock to distribute chemicals.
Clean/backwash filters to remove trapped contaminants.
Brush walls and floors to dislodge biofilm where chloramines hide.
Step 4: Prevent Future Chloramine Buildup
Test water weekly: Keep free chlorine at 1–3 ppm.
Shock regularly: Every 1–2 weeks in summer or after heavy use.
Encourage pre-swim showers: Reduces oils and lotions entering the water.
Use enzyme treatments: Break down non-living organics (e.g., sunscreen) before chlorine reacts with them.
When Chloramines Won’t Budge
Persistent odour: Test for phosphates (use a phosphate remover like the Water TechniX Phosphate Remover).
High stabiliser (CYA) levels: Above 50 ppm reduces chlorine’s effectiveness—partially drain and refill, or use some Cyanuric Acid Remover
Old water: TDS (total dissolved solids) over 1500 ppm? Time to drain and refresh.
Need to Shock or Oxidise?
Browse our Pool Shock & Oxidizers Collection for fast-acting solutions. Pair with a test kit to stay ahead of chloramines.
Final Tip: A well-maintained pool shouldn’t smell! If you notice that “chlorine” odour, it’s a reminder to test, shock, and tweak your routine. Your swimmers (and their eyes) will thank you.