Are you in a situation where you need to drink pool water? Perhaps you’re camping, or maybe there’s been an unexpected crisis that has left you without access to clean drinking water. Whatever the reason, it’s important to dechlorinate pool water before drinking it. Chlorinated water is safe for swimming but can be harmful if ingested.
The good news is that removing chlorine from pool water is surprisingly easy. There are several methods you can use, most of which involve using common household items. However, it’s essential to note that while these methods reduce the levels of chlorine in the water, they do not eliminate all contaminants and bacteria. If possible, try to avoid drinking untreated pool water altogether.
If you have no other choice but to consume pool water, here are some methods you can use to dechlorinate it:
Table of Contents
Understanding Chlorine In Pool Water
Why Chlorine Is Used In Pool Water
Chlorine is commonly used in pool water because it effectively kills bacteria and other harmful microorganisms that can cause serious illnesses. It acts as a disinfectant, preventing the growth of algae and mold while keeping the water clean and clear.
Moreover, chlorine is relatively inexpensive and easy to use, making it a popular choice for pool owners who want to maintain good water quality without breaking the bank.
While there are alternative methods for sanitizing pool water, such as using ozone or saltwater systems, chlorine remains the most widely-used method due to its efficiency and availability.
The Negative Effects Of Chlorine Ingestion
Although chlorine is generally safe when used properly in pool water, ingesting large amounts can lead to negative health effects such as digestive problems, respiratory irritation, and skin irritation.
In some cases, exposure to high levels of chlorine gas can also cause severe lung damage or even death.
This is why it’s important to know how to dechlorinate pool water if you plan on drinking it. Removing excess chlorine from pool water reduces the risk of these negative health effects, helping keep you and your family safe while enjoying your swimming pool.
If you’re unsure about the safety of your pool water, always consult a professional before attempting to drink it.
Methods Of Removing Chlorine From Pool Water
Boiling Method
One of the easiest methods to remove chlorine from pool water is by boiling it. Boil the water in a pot or kettle for about 20 minutes and let it cool down before drinking. The heat will break down the chlorine compounds present in the water, leaving behind clean drinking water.
However, this method may not be feasible for large quantities of pool water as it might require several pots of boiling water to get rid of all the chlorine completely. Also, boiling removes only chlorine and not other pollutants like bacteria or viruses which can still contaminate the drinking water. Therefore, it’s best to use some other methods along with boiling.
If you’re planning to boil pool water regularly, invest in a home water distiller which effectively removes chlorine, sediments, minerals, and other impurities from the water.
Vitamin C Method
The Vitamin C method is another effective way to dechlorinate your pool water for drinking. Simply crush a few Vitamin C tablets (ascorbic acid) and add them to the pitcher filled with pool water. Wait for around five minutes while stirring the water so that the crushed tablets mix well with the water.
The Vitamin C compound helps to neutralize the chlorine in the pool water and converts it into harmless chloride. Once done, filter out any remaining particles and debris present in the water using a fine mesh strainer. And voila! Your pool water is now safe to drink!
As compared to boiling, this method requires lesser effort, time, and resources. And also leaves no chemical residue or bad aftertaste.
Campden Tablet Method
The Campden tablet method is used by many pool owners to remove chlorine from their swimming pools. This method uses potassium metabisulfite and citric acid to neutralize the chlorine in the water.
Simply crush one Campden tablet (per 20 gallons of water) into each gallon of water, stir it well, and let it sit for around 24 hours. Once done, use a fine mesh strainer or filter to get rid of any suspended particles that might remain in the water.
This method effectively removes not only chlorine but also chloramines – toxic contaminants produced when chlorine combines with ammonia or nitrogen compounds in the pool water.
Remember to take extra precautions while dealing with chemicals like potassium metabisulfite and citric acid. Always read the instructions beforehand and follow all safety measures to prevent any accidental hazards.
Safety Precautions When Dechlorinating Pool Water
Handling Chemicals Safely
When dechlorinating pool water, the first safety precaution to consider is carefully handling chemicals. Chlorine and other dechlorinating agents are dangerous when ingested or inhaled in excess. Proper protective gear should be worn while handling these chemicals:
- Gloves
- Masks or respirators
- Protective clothing that covers your body entirely.
Furthermore, always read and follow product labels carefully before using any chemical. In case of accidental contact with skin or eyes, rinse thoroughly with plenty of water and seek medical assistance if irritation persists.
Ensuring Proper Dosage
Treating pool water with de-chlorinating agents requires careful dosing and measuring. Before adding anything to the swimming pool, make sure you know exactly how much chemical mixture your water needs, taking into account factors such as size and amount of debris present.
To figure out optimal dosage requirements, consider hiring a professional testing service to determine your water’s chemical makeup. This will help ensure that the proper amounts of de-chlorinating agents are added without any risks to human health.
It’s important to apply caution when working with pool chemicals. Keep them out of reach of children and pets at all times to avoid unnecessary injury or poisoning.
Alternative Sources Of Drinking Water
There are many alternative sources of drinking water that are safe for consumption. If you ever find yourself in a situation where the tap water is not drinkable, or if you’re trying to reduce your dependence on bottled water, here are some alternative options:
Tap Water Vs. Bottled Water
If you live in an urban area with clean tap water, it might be better for you to consume tap water instead of bottled water. Tap water is generally cheaper and has more regulation than bottled water.
Bottled water also creates plastic waste and contributes to environmental pollution. In addition, contrary to popular belief, studies have shown that bottled water is not necessarily safer or cleaner than tap water.
However, if your house gets its supply from a private well, you should regularly test your tap water for contaminants as it’s not regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Filtered Water
A reliable way to get clean drinking water fast is to filter it using products like “Berkey” filters or Brita pitchers. These products use carbon-based filters and eliminate any odors and flavors caused by chlorine or bacteria.
You could also install under sink water filtration systems which will remove impurities from both tap water and well water.
Another thing to note is activated charcoal or carbon can help absorb contaminants. Alternatively, boiling pool water and letting it cool down could help dechlorinate it by allowing evaporation of chlorine.
“When I found out about Berkey filters, I was amazed at how effective they were compared to other filtering systems.” – Mike Smith
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common methods to dechlorinate pool water for drinking?
There are several common methods to dechlorinate pool water for drinking. One method is to use activated carbon filters that absorb the chlorine. Another method is to use ascorbic acid, which neutralizes the chlorine. Sodium thiosulfate is also commonly used to remove chlorine from pool water. Ultraviolet (UV) light is another effective method to dechlorinate pool water.
Can boiling pool water remove chlorine?
Boiling pool water does not remove chlorine. In fact, boiling pool water can actually increase the concentration of chlorine in the water. This is because boiling causes the water to evaporate, leaving behind more concentrated levels of chlorine. If you want to remove chlorine from pool water, it is best to use one of the other methods, such as activated carbon filters or ascorbic acid.
How long does it take for chlorine to dissipate from pool water?
The amount of time it takes for chlorine to dissipate from pool water depends on several factors, such as the temperature of the water, the amount of sunlight it receives, and the pH level of the water. Generally, it takes about 24-48 hours for chlorine to fully dissipate from pool water. However, it is important to note that the chlorine levels will start to decrease as soon as the pool water is exposed to sunlight and air.
What are the health risks associated with drinking chlorinated pool water?
Drinking chlorinated pool water can pose several health risks. Chlorine is a strong disinfectant that is used to kill harmful bacteria and viruses in pool water. However, when ingested in large amounts, chlorine can cause irritation of the mouth, throat, and stomach. It can also cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Long-term exposure to chlorine has been linked to several health problems, including cancer and reproductive issues.
Are there any natural ways to dechlorinate pool water for drinking?
Yes, there are several natural ways to dechlorinate pool water for drinking. One method is to let the pool water sit in a container for 24-48 hours, which allows the chlorine to naturally evaporate. Another method is to use vitamin C tablets, which neutralize the chlorine in the water. You can also use a mix of hydrogen peroxide and white vinegar to dechlorinate pool water.
What is the recommended way to store dechlorinated pool water for drinking?
The recommended way to store dechlorinated pool water for drinking is in a clean, airtight container that has been sanitized with a solution of water and bleach. The container should be made of food-grade plastic or glass and should be stored in a cool, dark place. It is important to label the container with the date and time that the water was dechlorinated, and to use the water within a few days to ensure its freshness.