The Hidden Downsides of Chlorinated Pool Systems: What You Need to Know

Owning a pool is a dream for many homeowners—a place to relax, entertain, and escape the heat. But as any pool owner knows, it’s not all sunshine and fun. Pool maintenance is a significant responsibility, and one of the most common systems used to keep pools clean and safe is chlorine. 

While chlorine has been a reliable method for decades, it’s not without its downsides. If you’re a pool owner—or considering becoming one—you might be wondering if a chlorinated pool system is truly the best choice for you. 

In this article, we’ll explore the hidden downsides of chlorinated pool systems so you can make an informed decision about your pool’s maintenance.

We believe in providing our customers with all the information they need to make the best choice for their specific situation. While we install chlorinated systems because they are effective and widely used, we also recognize that they may not be the perfect fit for everyone. Our goal is to ensure you have a clear understanding of both the benefits and the potential drawbacks, allowing you to choose the best pool maintenance system for your needs—whether that’s chlorine or another option.

Understanding Chlorine: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

How Chlorine Works

Chlorine is widely used in pools because of its effectiveness in killing bacteria and controlling algae. It works by breaking down into various chemicals, including hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ion, which destroy harmful microorganisms in the water. This process keeps the water clean and clear, making it safe for swimmers.

Chlorine: The Benefits You Should Know About

• Effective Sanitization: Chlorine is one of the most effective agents for killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in pool water.
• Affordability: Compared to other pool sanitation systems, chlorine is relatively inexpensive and widely available.
• Ease of Use: Chlorine systems are straightforward to maintain, with clear guidelines on dosage and application.

The Downsides: What Builders Doesn’t Tell You About Chlorine

But while chlorine might seem like a convenient and effective solution, it’s essential to consider the downsides, especially if you’re prioritizing your family’s health, comfort, and long-term maintenance costs.

Hidden Health Risks Associated with Chlorinated Pools

Skin and Eye Irritation

One of the most common complaints among pool users is irritation of the skin and eyes. Chlorine can be harsh, especially in higher concentrations, causing redness, itching, and dryness. For people with sensitive skin or allergies, swimming in a chlorinated pool can be particularly uncomfortable. If this sounds like you, your best friend is the Oxygenated Pool System.

• Example: Have you ever noticed your skin feeling dry and tight after a swim? That’s chlorine at work, stripping away natural oils from your skin.

Respiratory Issues

Chlorine doesn’t just affect your skin and eyes; it can also impact your respiratory system. When chlorine reacts with organic matter in the pool—like sweat or urine—it forms chloramines, which can evaporate into the air and be inhaled. This can lead to respiratory problems, especially for individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions.

• Example: If you’ve ever walked into an indoor pool and felt like the air was hard to breathe, that’s likely due to chloramines in the air.

Long-Term Health Concerns

There is ongoing debate about the long-term health effects of frequent exposure to chlorinated water. Some studies suggest a possible link between chlorine exposure and certain types of cancer, though the evidence is not yet conclusive. However, it’s something to consider if your family spends a lot of time in the pool.

• Example: Consider how much time your kids spend splashing around in the pool during the summer. While the risk is still being studied, it’s worth thinking about the potential long-term effects.

Environmental Impact: Chlorine and the Planet

Chemical Runoff

When pool water is backwashed or drained, the chlorine and other chemicals in the water can end up in local waterways, potentially harming aquatic life. Chlorine is toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms, and even small amounts can be dangerous.

• Example: If you’ve ever drained your pool after the season ends, that water—and all the chemicals in it—doesn’t just disappear. It flows into the environment, where it can do real damage.

Chlorine Production and Carbon Footprint

The production of chlorine itself is not without environmental consequences. Chlorine is produced using a significant amount of energy, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the transportation and storage of chlorine requires careful handling due to its hazardous nature, adding further to its environmental impact.

Chlorine System Maintenance Challenges: What Pool Owners Need to Know

Constant Monitoring and Balancing

Maintaining a chlorinated pool is not a “set it and forget it” task. Chlorine levels need to be monitored regularly to ensure they are within a safe range. If the levels are too low, the water becomes unsafe to swim in. If they’re too high, it can cause the irritation issues we discussed earlier.

• Example: Picture yourself testing the pool water every few days, adjusting the chlorine levels, and making sure everything is balanced. It’s a time-consuming task that requires constant vigilance.

Potential for Over-Chlorination

It’s easy to accidentally add too much chlorine, especially when trying to compensate for heavy pool usage or a sudden algae bloom. Over-chlorination can lead to an increase in chloramines, which, as mentioned earlier, can cause respiratory problems and make the pool water less comfortable to swim in.

• Example: After hosting a pool party, you might be tempted to dump extra chlorine into the pool to keep it clean. But without careful measurement, you could end up making the water uncomfortable or even unsafe for the next swim.

Chlorine Odor

One of the most recognizable downsides of a chlorinated pool is the smell. The “chlorine” odor often noticed around pools isn’t actually chlorine itself but chloramines—the same compounds responsible for skin and eye irritation. This smell can be off-putting, particularly in enclosed pool areas.

• Example: Think about how the smell of chlorine lingers on your skin and clothes after a swim. It’s not just unpleasant; it’s a sign that your pool might have too many chloramines.

Alternative Pool Systems: Is There a Better Option?

When it comes to maintaining a clean and safe swimming pool, chlorine is just one of many options for keeping your swimming pool clean and safe. There are several alternative pool systems available, each offering unique benefits that might better align with your specific needs. Exploring these options can help you determine if one of them is a better fit for your pool.

• Oxygenated Pools
• Saltwater Pools
• Ozone Pools
• UV Pools

Oxygenated Pool System Oxygenated pool systems, also known as “Oxygen pools”, use oxygen in combination with a small amount of chlorine or other sanitizers to keep the pool clean. These systems generate active oxygen (O₃ or O₂) through a special reactor, which helps to oxidize contaminants in the water, providing a natural and powerful sanitation method.
Pros	Cons
Extremely low chlorine use, natural and gentle on skin and eyes, effective at maintaining water clarity.	Higher upfront costs, requires specialized.
Saltwater Pool System Saltwater pools have become increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional chlorinated pools. These systems use a salt-chlorine generator to produce chlorine from salt, which means the chlorine levels are generally lower and more stable. This can result in less irritation and a more comfortable swimming experience.
Pros	Cons
Lower chlorine levels, reduced skin and eye irritation, softer-feeling water.	Higher initial cost, more complex maintenance.
Ozone Pool System Ozone pools use ozone gas to purify the water, significantly reducing the need for chlorine. Ozone is a powerful disinfectant and can kill bacteria and viruses more effectively than chlorine alone.
Pros	Cons
Minimal chlorine use, excellent water clarity, and reduced odor.	Higher upfront costs, requires professional installation and maintenance.
UV Pools UV pool systems use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and other pathogens in the water. While UV systems still require some chlorine, the amount is significantly reduced, leading to fewer of the downsides associated with chlorine.
Pros	Cons
Low chlorine levels, effective sanitation, and minimal environmental impact.	Higher installation and maintenance costs, and UV bulbs need regular replacement.

 

What’s the Best Choice for Your Pool?

At the end of the day, deciding whether to stick with a chlorinated pool system or explore alternatives depends on your priorities. 

If you value low upfront costs and ease of use, chlorine might still be the best option for you. However, if you’re concerned about health impacts, environmental effects, or just tired of the constant maintenance, it might be worth exploring oxygenated pool systems, saltwater systems, ozone systems, or UV systems.

You now understand the hidden downsides of chlorinated pools, from health risks to environmental concerns.

If you’re feeling frustrated by the irritation, the smell, and the maintenance, remember that there are alternatives out there.

Consider exploring alternative pool sanitation systems. Shasta Pools can help guide you through the options and find the best fit for your needs.

We at Shasta Pools are committed to helping you create the perfect pool experience, whether that’s with a traditional chlorinated system or a modern alternative. Reach out to us to learn more about your options and take the next step toward a better swimming experience.

Making the right choice for your pool is crucial—not just for your enjoyment but for your health and the environment. Whatever system you choose, be sure it’s one that fits your lifestyle and long-term needs.