Debunking Common Myths about Swimming Pools

From warnings about swimming too soon after eating to the assertion that blondes will end up with green hair from too much chlorine, swimming pool myths are numerous. Many of these lingering beliefs aren’t true at all, while some are based on incorrect information or are only partially true in certain situations. Below, we debunk some of the more common swimming pool myths.

You’ll Get Cramps if You Swim Too Soon after You Eat

After you eat, more blood does go to your stomach to help with digestion, which means less circulation around your other muscles, and the result could be cramps if you swim too soon after eating. However, this is only likely to happen if you’ve had a really heavy meal. Otherwise, you should be just fine if you go for a dip after enjoying a light snack or meal.

You Can Smell if There’s Excess Chlorine in Pool Water

When chlorine breaks down bacteria in pool water, oxygen is released. If your pool’s chlorine is working really hard to break down bacteria, you could notice a powerful chlorine smell from the chlorinated oxygen produced by this process. However, what this means is that more chlorine is needed in your pool, not less.

Chlorine Turns Blonde Hair Green

It’s copper-based algae prevention chemicals that can do this, not chlorine. If you have blonde hair, either condition your hair before you swim or use a shampoo that removes unwanted color from your hair after you swim to manage this problem.

You Can’t Open Your Eyes Underwater or They’ll Burn

Goggles can definitely protect your eyes as you swim. However, if you swim sans goggles, you don’t have to keep your eyes closed when under the water. As long as you keep your water’s pH balanced—between 7.2 and 7.6 is recommended—your eyes should be fine.

Urine Will Turn Pool Water a Deep Blue Color

Swimmingpool.com reports more than half of adults surveyed still believe this one. It’s actually a common “warning” parents often give kids to discourage urinating in the pool. The fact is there are no standard pool chemicals that will turn water a deeper blue when exposed to urine.

Saltwater Pools Are Chlorine-Free

Salt chlorine generators are used in saltwater pools, which some San Diego pool owners prefer because the water is softer and gentler. There’s a common myth that such pools are chlorine-free. To sanitize these pools, water is charged with an electric current, and this process creates chlorine. However, the chlorine smell is naturally reduced in a saltwater pool.

A Clear Pool Is a Clean Pool

Just because a swimming pool looks nice and clean and ready for use doesn’t mean it is. Instead, test your pool’s water every week or so to make sure everything’s balanced and you’re not exposed to harmful bacteria or other microorganisms. There are convenient kits you can use to do this. If you have any concerns about the results, consult with a pool professional.

If you need advice about any aspect of owning a swimming pool, call on the experienced professionals at San Diego Pools. We’re a premier San Diego pool builder, and our team of pool design and construction experts is dedicated to building the pool that’s right for your family and providing you with the highest-quality service in the industry. Give us a call today at 888-707-7786.