If you’ve ever gone swimming only to wind up with red and burning eyes, you’ve probably wondered what caused this negative experience. Most people assume that this condition is caused by too much chlorine in the water of the pool. However, the true cause of this condition is more complicated, offering a reminder of the importance of proper pool maintenance in Fayette County.
Improper pH Levels
One cause of red and burning eyes after swimming has nothing to do with chlorine at all. Another water parameter you must track as you care for your pool is the pH level of the water. If you remember from high school science class, a pH below 7 is considered acidic, while a pH above 7 is considered alkaline.
The body’s natural pH is somewhere in the range of 7.2-7.4, or a slight level of alkalinity. If your pool water is too drastically outside these levels, your body will respond with red and burning eyes. Products are available to both raise and lower the pH in your pool, so it’s important to test it on a regular basis.
High Chloramine Levels
The reason you add chlorine to your pool is to trap organic waste to prevent the waste from causing sickness in those who swim in your pool. When chlorine has done its job, the chemical reaction that transpires results in the production of chloramine. This substance smells similar to chlorine, though it serves no purpose in your pool other than to cause problems. It is, in fact, then, high chloramine levels, which represent a lack of chlorine, rather than excessive chlorine levels that lead to red and burning eyes when you go swimming.
Prevention is the Best Medicine
The best way to prevent both of these conditions is to practice good pool maintenance in Fayette County. Regular water checks will help you keep a close eye on your water conditions, ensuring you can maintain stable water quality without major shifts that result from a lack of care. Therefore, whether you choose to maintain your pool yourself or utilize a professional pool maintenance service, it is crucial that you work to maintain optimal water quality at all times.
