Why Does Tap or Pool Water Test Positive for Chlorine?

Chlorine is a natural element found in oceans and rocks worldwide. It is added to both pool and tap water because of its effectiveness at killing waterborne diseases, making tap water safe to drink and pool water safe for swimming.

Chlorine for Safety

• Despite reservations about the hazards of chlorine, it is far less hazardous than some of the waterborne disease that lurks in drinking water. It kills parasites, bacteria and viruses including cholera and typhoid. It also eliminates algae, slime and molds that grow in reservoirs and pipes, as well as extinguishing odors and odd tastes.

History of Chlorine in Water

• Chlorine has been added to the public's drinking water since 1908. According to Americanchemistry.com, it is largely responsible for the 50 percent increase in an American's life expectancy seen in the 20th century.

Chlorine in Swimming Pools

• Chlorine is in swimming pools for the same reason it is in tap water. In fact, the Poolcenter.com claims that properly chlorinated pool water is not much different than tap water in its chlorine levels. Chlorine is useful for keeping swimming pools clean, safe and sanitary.