Wrong Chlorine Levels

• According to Healthy Pools, chlorine should be between two and four parts per million. Failure to maintain these levels can result in skin irritation, a strong odor and a build-up of bacteria, harmful microorganisms and algae. Chlorine should be monitored daily--or hourly if the pool is heavily used.
  
  

Failure to Superchlorinate

• A strong chlorine odor can actually indicate the need for a shock or superchlorination treatment. As chlorine combines with contaminants, it produces strong-smelling chloramine molecules. Shock treatments oxidize ammonia and nitrogen compounds while destroying organic contaminants, according to Healthy Pools. Superchlorination kills disease-causing microorganisms while leaving a residual of chlorine for continual cleaning. One of these treatments should be done one to three times a week, depending on frequency of use, temperature and local regulations.
  
  

Health Problems

• Numerous health problems can result from improperly maintained chlorine levels. Diarrhea, Legionnaires' disease and athlete's foot, as well as ear, skin, eye and respiratory infections are a few examples of these potential problems.