Chlorine or bromine: which disinfectant for a swimming pool?

Your pool water requires regular chemical maintenance to ensure its cleanliness and clarity. To get rid of impurities that compromise water quality, several specific agents are available: chlorine, bromine, active oxygen, etc.

We will examine here the two most used disinfectants: chlorine and bromine, which are adopted by the vast majority of pool owners.

Chlorine

It is the disinfectant most widely used thanks to its power and affordable cost. It belongs to the halogen category, which are known for their efficiency as oxidants and disinfectants.

Advantages

One of the main advantages of chlorine is that it is very economical compared to other disinfecting products. Its price is all the more attractive given its high efficiency.

It is a very effective disinfectant, capable not only of eliminating impurities but also of fighting algae and fungi that could appear in your pool. Moreover, using chlorine is very easy.

Disadvantages

However, it can have an irritating effect, particularly for sensitive eyes. In addition, it gives off a rather strong odor that may not suit everyone.

Chlorine is heavily influenced by the pH of the water. Indeed, the pH and chlorine level in the water interact mutually. Chlorine tends to be more effective in an acidic environment, with an ideal pH around 7.2. Its effectiveness also decreases as the temperature increases.

Types of treatment

Chlorine can be found in liquid form, granules, tablets, or pucks. It is important to note that chlorine should not be directly added to the water but rather placed in the skimmers for optimal action.

It is crucial to monitor the chlorine level carefully during its use. If it is too high, it is necessary to stop application, and if the water becomes dark, it should be treated again.

If the pool water is excessively cloudy, a chlorine shock treatment can be performed by dissolving it directly into the water. In this case, swimming is prohibited.

Bromine

Bromine is slightly less commonly used than chlorine, but it belongs to the same chemical family of halogens.

Advantages

The main advantage of bromine is that it is gentle and odorless. The by-products generated by bromine during the breakdown of organic matter (called bromamines) do not release any odor and are not harmful to swimmers.

By using bromine in your pool, you do not need to add a stabilizer (a product that maintains the effectiveness of chlorine under the effect of the sun), for which a high concentration in the water is detrimental.

Furthermore, the effectiveness of bromine is not affected by pH or temperature. It retains its disinfectant properties even with a high pH or hot temperatures, making it ideal for warm environments (spas, heated pools, etc.)

Disadvantages

The main disadvantage of bromine is its cost. Its price is 40% higher than that of chlorine. In addition, it is a product that must be handled with care and caution due to its corrosiveness.

Often, bromine requires the use of a brominator (a device used to diffuse bromine) to work effectively, especially in tablet form.

Types of treatment

It is advisable to use bromine with a brominator to ensure optimal diffusion. Bromine can also be combined with other products, such as an algaecide to enhance its effectiveness, particularly in hot weather or when the pool is covered, or with active oxygen to prolong the bromine’s action. For intensive bromine disinfection in early spring, it can be combined with non-stabilized chlorine for optimal treatment. It should be noted that the bromine level should be between 1.2 and 2 mg/L.

Indispensable pool water treatment

Whether you opt for chlorine or bromine, it is essential to keep your pool water clean and clear. Maintaining your pool during the swimming season is fundamental. All that remains is for you to choose the solution that best suits your budget and preferences!