Total Chlorine / Total Bromine

What It Means: Total Chlorine or Total Bromine represents the full amount of sanitizer in your pool or spa water—this includes both the active form that kills bacteria (free chlorine/bromine) and the used form (combined chlorine/bromine). Keeping this level in range is critical to prevent algae, bacteria growth, and cloudy water.

Ideal Range: 1–4 ppm

If Levels Are Too Low: Low total sanitizer levels can result in unclean water that looks clear but harbors bacteria. It can also allow algae to take hold. If you’re using chlorine, add  3" Chlorine Tablets or Super Shock Cal-Hypo from Chlor-Dash to quickly bring levels up.

If Levels Are Too High: Excess chlorine or bromine can lead to skin and eye irritation and an overpowering chemical odor. If your levels are slightly above range, simply stop adding sanitizer and allow them to fall naturally. For a quicker solution, dilute your pool with fresh water.

Interpreting Total vs. Free Chlorine: If your Total Chlorine is higher than your Free Chlorine (covered on the next page), it indicates the presence of combined chlorine—or chloramines—which are no longer effective and may cause odors. In this case, shock the water with a product like Super Shock Cal-Hypo to eliminate chloramines and restore clarity.

Tips for Balanced Sanitization:

• Always maintain the proper level of Free Chlorine/Bromine to keep your water safe.

• Shock weekly, or more often in high bather load situations.

• Never mix chlorine and bromine systems. Stick with one sanitizer type.

Chlor-Dash Recommends:

• Chlorine Tablets (for slow-release sanitization)

• Super Shock Cal-Hypo (for fast, effective chlorination)