Strong chlorine smell or swimmer irritation
A strong "chlorine" smell doesn't necessarily mean too much chlorine. Testing tells you what's actually going on.
Request a pool water assessment
Tell us what the pool is doing. A real person answers.
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The CDC explains that irritants called chloramines, formed when chlorine combines with sweat and other contaminants, are a common cause of the smell and stinging eyes. See the CDC on eye irritation from pool chemicals.
What you might notice
- Strong chemical smell at the pool
- Red or stinging eyes after swimming
- Skin irritation
- Cloudy water at the same time
Possible causes
Appearance alone doesn't identify the cause. These are the usual possibilities a pro checks:
Combined chlorine
Chloramines from sweat, oils and contaminants.
Water balance
Readings out of range can increase irritation.
Heavy use
Busy weekends or parties.
Recent treatment
A recent chemical adjustment.
What you can safely do
- Leave the pool area if you feel irritation; seek medical or poison-control advice for serious symptoms
- Rinse eyes and skin with clean water
- Don't add or mix chemicals, and don't rely on smell as a test
How a Uniform pool pro assesses it
We test and record the water and review recent use and treatments, then adjust as your plan specifies and note it in your report.
What we do, and what we refer
| Situation | Next step |
|---|---|
| Water out of range | Corrected as part of service |
| Recurring problem | Review service frequency and circulation |
You get a written quote before any work outside your plan. See the pool service cost guide.
Request a call back
Tell us what's happening and we'll call you to schedule an assessment.
Other pool problems: green pool & algae, cloudy or milky water, pool losing water, weak circulation, dirty filter or rising pressure, saltwater pool low on chlorine, stains or discoloration, calcium scale on tile, pool dirty after a storm.
Frequently asked questions
Does a strong smell mean too much chlorine?
Not necessarily. It's often combined chlorine. Testing tells you.
Should I shock the pool myself?
Not without testing and proper training. Never mix chemicals.
Need a pool service you can trust at your home?
Call now. We'll ask a few questions, give you an honest arrival window and send a background-checked pool pro in uniform.
(856-864-3676) · Toll-free number**Restrictions may apply.
On a computer?Scan with your phone camera to call.