What is the required chlorine level for disinfecting pool water?

The correct answer is 1 to 3 parts per million (ppm) for disinfecting pool water. This range is essential for effectively maintaining water quality and ensuring safe swimming conditions. Chlorine at these levels is considered optimal for killing pathogens and controlling contaminants without causing irritation to swimmers.

Maintaining a chlorine level within this range helps to keep the pool free of harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, that may be present in the water. At concentrations lower than 1 ppm, the disinfecting power of chlorine may be insufficient to eliminate these potential health risks. Conversely, levels higher than 3 ppm can lead to chemical irritation, reduced swimmer comfort, and imbalances in the pool water chemistry.

Hence, the recommended chlorine level of 1 to 3 ppm strikes a balance between effective sanitation and swimmer safety, making it the appropriate choice for disinfecting pool water.