Navigate the Pool Chemical Shortage

Many of you may have heard reports in the news about a "chlorine shortage" this year. While this is true, it doesn't apply to the type of chlorine typically used in our public pools.

The 'Chlorine Shortage'

In August 2020, a chemical plant in Louisiana burned down, shortly after the area was hit by Hurricane Laura. That company manufactured TriChlor chlorine tablets, producing a majority of the country's supply of those tablets.

Fortunately, most commercial facilities use sodium hypochlorite (liquid pool bleach), calcium hypochlorite, bromine or other sanitizing chemicals to treat their pool water.

Smaller Facility Concerns

Some smaller commercial aquatic facilities that do rely on TriChlor may feel the effects of the shortage. In this case, it's wise to consider using one of the other chemical feed systems to help avoid any shortages of disinfecting chemicals. Chlorine is readily available—just not the TriChlor tablets.

Chlorine Generators are also an additional way to produce your own chlorine "onsite", eliminating the reliance on outside sources for your chlorine.

Reduce Your Chlorine Demand

Whether your facility relies on TriChlor or not, you will benefit by lessening the demand for chlorine in your pool. Supplemental systems, such as UV systems, ozone systems and AOP (advanced oxidation process) systems are all alternatives that can supplement your existing water treatment, helping reduce the demand for chlorine in the pool, while also protecting swimmers from chlorine-resistant pathogens that can cause recreational water illnesses (RWIs).

All three of these systems work to destroy bacteria, viruses, algae and more, helping expand the effectiveness of your chlorination system. UV systems rely on a UV lamp, which alters the DNA or RNA of microbes, rendering them ineffective. Ozone systems and AOP systems rely on oxidation to destroy contaminants and microbes. This is particularly important when it comes to chlorine-resistant pathogens, such as Cryptosporidium, which can sicken swimmers.

Because they act to destroy dangerous pathogens in the water, UV, ozone and AOP systems help supplement your existing chlorination system. This will reduce the amount of chlorine you need to add to the water to ensure proper water balance to keep swimmers safe.

Ozone and AOP systems also make the pool's water feel softer, providing a more pleasant swimming experience for your guests.

Know Your Options

Also, contact your local commercial pool distributor or chemical provider to review the options available for your facility and that are best to use in your area. Finding the best sanitizer to use and utilizing these alternate disinfection systems will help reduce your chemical demand, ultimately helping you provide better water quality for your patrons.