Chlorine Confidential: The Case of CAC, the chlorine smell

When it comes to keeping your pool healthy, pool service pros are a lot like crime scene investigators. Both walk onto a scene with a trained eye, tools in hand, and a mission: gather the evidence, identify the culprit, and prevent future crimes. In the case of your pool, the “crime” is chloramines—those irritating byproducts that cause red eyes, itchy skin, and that infamous “chlorine smell.”

Step One: The Investigation

Just like a CSI agent dusts for fingerprints or checks for DNA, pool pros run tests for combined chlorine (CC). These tests reveal whether chloramines are lurking in the water. A good pool service technician doesn’t just look at the surface—cloudy water or strong odor—but digs deeper with test kits and the LSI/Orenda app, looking for hard evidence.

Step Two: Identifying the Suspect

Not all chloramines are the same. Monochloramine, dichloramine, and trichloramine each leave their own “calling card,” much like different suspects in a lineup.

Monochloramine: The first offender—shows up early but isn’t always a huge problem.

Dichloramine: Stronger, smellier, and more irritating.

Trichloramine: The repeat offender—responsible for that burning chlorine smell and eye-stinging indoor pool reputation.

Knowing which one is present is like matching fingerprints to the right suspect—critical for solving the case.

Step Three: Preventing Future Crimes

Just as investigators work to keep criminals off the street, pool pros work to stop chloramines before they take over the scene. The tools?

Fresh air and proper ventilation (indoor pools especially)

Ultraviolet (UV) and ozone systems—the high-tech “forensics lab” that breaks chloramines down

Maintaining proper free chlorine levels—your pool’s first line of defense

Good swimmer hygiene—encouraging showers before swimming removes much of the organic matter chloramines feed on

Closing the Case

In Chlorine Confidential: The Case of CAC, the “CAC” stands for Combined Available Chlorine. It’s the hard evidence that chloramines are on the scene. With the right detective work—testing, identifying, and applying prevention strategies—pool service pros close the case and restore balance to your water.

Like any good CSI story, it’s not just about solving the crime—it’s about keeping the neighborhood (or in this case, the pool) safe from future trouble.

Author: Jim Blanton

Jim Blanton brings a dynamic and diverse background to the pool industry, blending creativity, leadership, and decades of hands-on expertise. After early experiences as a child actor, stand-up comedian, Disneyland cast member, and U.S. Navy veteran, Jim found his long-term calling in the pool industry—where he has spent the past 25 years serving, educating, and advocating for pool professionals.

Currently a Trainer and content manager for HASA, Jim is also Chairman of the California Pool & Spa Association, where he champions safety, innovation, and professional standards. With over 20 years as a Certified Pool Operator (CPO) Instructor through the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), Jim plays an active role in shaping the future of the industry through education and mentorship.

An award-winning trainer for the world’s largest pool supply retailer and a featured expert on Lifetime Network’s Designing Spaces, Jim is known for making education engaging, practical, and memorable. His career reflects a deep commitment to empowering pool professionals, improving safety, and leaving the industry stronger than he found it.