Chlorine Alternatives for Your Swimming Pool

Chlorine shortage may be bad news for pools this summer due to chemical  plant fire - ABC7 San Francisco

With the approaching of summer, it is no surprise that the demand for chlorine is increasing. Due to the high demand this season,  we are facing a chlorine shortage in Canada. In the past year, the COVID-19 pandemic forced us to stay home. The more time we spent at home, the more demand there was for home improvements, such as backyard swimming pool installment. Now, chlorine pricing rates have spiked and people are looking for chlorine alternatives for their hot tubs and swimming pools.

Chlorine is considered one of the most common products to treat a swimming pool; it improves water quality by eliminating harmful fungi and bacteria. However, there are chlorine substitutes for swimming pools that are just as effective when it comes to making pool water suitable for use. Below, we have listed some safe and effective alternatives to chlorine for swimming pools that are sure to clear up the troublesome microbes in your pool water.

Ozone

This gas is considered a great eliminator of viruses, fungi and bacteria —an ideal pool water treatment option. This product takes little energy to function and it does not leave residue. 

To use this non chlorine option in your pool, an ozonator device is required, which captures oxygen from the air, breaks down these particles, and directs the ozone into the water. It is necessary to leave the device on for 6 to 8 hours daily.

Salt water

Salt water is a natural way to treat a swimming pool without chlorine. Salt is less aggressive on the skin than chlorine, causing less irritation of the skin, less eye redness, and less dryness of the hair. Treating pool water with salt is a process that involves fewer chemicals and provides a self-cleaning aspect that stands out among non chlorine pool treatments. It is worth mentioning that the artificial smell characteristic to chlorine pools decreases when opting for a non chlorine-filled pool. That is, this resource is a natural alternative to pool chlorine.

Non-chlorine shock

Another non chlorine alternative is the chlorine-free shock—a quick and cheap alternative. Chlorine-free shock is another effective chlorine substitute for water treatment. It takes about 15 minutes for the pool to become swim-safe and you can add it directly to the pool water at any time.

PHMB

The last alternative for cleaning the swimming pool without chlorine is PHMB. For those who use contact lenses, PHMB is part of their cleaning solution. This option is extremely effective; it is immune to UV rays, pH and temperature variations, and there is no odor! It is a great choice if you have just filled the pool and have not yet added any treatment products.


For more information on how to navigate the COVID-19 chlorine shortage, please visit: https://torontopoolsupplies.ca/blog/tips-to-navigating-a-chlorine-shortage/.

Best Swimming Pools in Toronto for 2021

The month of June is already knocking on the door and with it comes the most exciting season of the year: summer. Toronto has several activities you can do during this season and visiting the city’s swimming pools remains a staple. The location and type of pool are important elements to consider when making the decision to enjoy a poolside weekend with friends and family. We have gathered below the best swimming pools in Toronto, including the best rooftop pools, public pools, and hotel pools in the city. Check it out!

NOTE: Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the locations may have reduced hours and days of operation. 

Public Swimming Pools: 

Pam McConnell Aquatic Center 

Pam McConnell Aquatic Centre - City of Toronto

Formerly known as the Regent Park Aquatic Center, the site has three indoor pools, a water slide, and space with therapeutic warm water. As it is a large site, this swimming pool is a great choice when your plans include a large number of people. The location is 640 Dundas St. East. 

Alex Duff Memorial Pool 

Alex Duff Memorial Pool - City of Toronto

With a 25m Olympic-size swimming pool and space for children, the Alex Duff Memorial Pool is located in Christie Pits Park at 779 Crawford St. West. In addition to being in one of Toronto’s most central parks, the pool also has a waterslide and an access ramp for those who need it. 

High Park Pool 

High Park - City of Toronto

Located at 1873 Bloor St. West, the High Park outdoor pool offers a unique space to enjoy the summer. Along with a 50m swimming pool, the place has a family change room and wheelchair access into the pool. High Park stands out for its beautiful landscape and the interactive amenities that surround the pool. It’s definitely worth checking out! 

Hotel Pools: 

The Sheraton Center Hotel

SHERATON FITNESS & POOL - Swimming Pools - 123 Queen Street W, Toronto, ON  - Phone Number

The Sheraton Center Hotel has the largest indoor-outdoor pool in downtown Toronto. Although the hotel is private, access to the pool is available for the general public to enjoy it in comfort and safety. The Sheraton hotel swimming pool is located at 123 Queen St. West and prices vary according to your preference of days and times established at the time of purchase. All pricing and availability information for the use of the swimming pool can be found at this link

Cabana Pool Bar 

Retractable Canopies at Cabana Pool Bar | ShadeFX Canopies | Canopy  outdoor, Backyard canopy, Pool houses

With an amazing view of the waterfront, this hotel swimming pool stands out for having unique pools built along Lake Ontario. The Cabana Pool Bar also offers access to drinks and good food which results in a unique experience for those looking for luxury, comfort, and fun. It’s located at 11 Polson St. along the Polson Pier. 

Rooftop Pools:

Thompson Hotel Rooftop 

Thompson Hotel Toronto — Accel Construction Management Inc.


This charming hotel, located at 550 Wellington St. West, boasts breathtaking 360-degree views over Lake Ontario and a rooftop pool that’s ranked as the best in Canada. The rooftop swimming pool’s panoramic skyline views might make it stand out when you’re choosing from the best swimming pools in Toronto. The Thompson Hotel also hosts pool parties from time to time.