Bromine is one chemical alternative to chlorine for use in swimming pools. Like everything, it has its advantages and disadvantages in swimming pool and spa use. Read on to learn more about bromine and find out if replacing the chlorine in your pool with bromine is a viable option.

The element bromine is closely related to chlorine. So close in fact that it took scientists a long time to realize that it was not chlorine and was its own separate element- bromine. To learn more fun facts about the discovery of the bromine element, to learn about the acetylene bromine reaction, and to view pictures of bromine and its isotopes, search the bromine element online.

Many pool supply companies now manufacture bromine compounds to offer alongside chlorine in their pool chemical lines. Bromine and chlorine are both excellent sanitizers, but the bromine element has some advantages over chlorine. Like chlorine (or nearly any pure chemical), undiluted bromine is corrosive. But in water, bromine on the skin is less irritating than chlorinated water. Bromine also has a lower odor than chlorine.

Indoors, where chlorine odors are more concentrated, bromine is more desirable. The majority of hot tub, spa, and pool uses of bromine are for indoor or enclosed pools. This is not only a result of bromine’s benefits, but also of its disadvantages..

Bromine becomes unstable in sunlight and lessens in its effectiveness. The bromine index can’t be stabilized as easily as chlorine to restore levels. But bromine may be easier on spa and hot tub filtration and circulation equipment, and so is often recommended over chlorine.

Like chlorine, bromine use in the spa or pool requires testing, particularly of bromine index pH levels. You will need to purchase a bromine tester for regular maintenance.

Another important maintenance note for users of bromine - bromine cannot go into the pool skimmer.. To properly disperse them bromine tablets need their own dispenser (or brominator).

Bromine is a good alternative to chlorine in the pool, but you’ll want to speak with an experienced, well trained pool chemical dealer to find out if bromine is an option for use in your pool, hot tub, or spa. Research online or call a knowledgeable pool chemical retailer to learn more about alternative pool chemical choices.