Swimming Pool Sanitizers: Chlorine, Bromine, and Biguanide

Sanitizers such as chlorine or bromine are used to kill bacteria and algae in swimming pool water.

Sanitizers are chemicals used to destroy harmful microorganisms in pool water.

The most common sanitizer used in swimming pools is chlorine.

When chlorine dissolves in water it forms hypochlorous acid, which kills bacteria and oxidizes organic contaminants.

Chlorine is available in several forms including:

Each type of chlorine adds sanitizer to the water but may also introduce other chemicals that affect water balance.

Bromine is sometimes used as an alternative sanitizer.

Bromine is more stable at higher temperatures and is commonly used in spas.

However, bromine is less effective in outdoor pools because it is not stabilized against UV sunlight.

Chlorine disinfects pool water by killing bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms.

Common pool chlorine types include liquid chlorine, calcium hypochlorite, trichlor tablets, and dichlor granules.

Bromine is often used in spas but chlorine remains the most common sanitizer for outdoor pools.

No. Biguanide sanitizing systems are not compatible with chlorine-based systems.

Poolside by CGT recommends maintaining proper sanitizer levels to protect both water quality and vinyl liner performance.

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