To find the level of chloramines in pool water, what procedure should a CPO follow?

To determine the level of chloramines in pool water, the correct procedure is to test both total chlorine and free chlorine levels, then subtract the free chlorine measurement from the total chlorine measurement. This calculation reveals the concentration of combined chlorine, which is what chloramines are classified as.

Chloramines form when free chlorine reacts with ammonia or organic compounds in the water, and they are responsible for problems such as unpleasant odors and eye irritation. By measuring total chlorine (which includes both free chlorine and combined chlorine) and free chlorine separately, a CPO can accurately assess how much of the chlorine is available to sanitize the water compared to how much is already combined with contaminants, indicating the presence of chloramines.

This method is straightforward and provides precise information necessary for maintaining water quality. Other methods, like observing temperature, color, or adding chemicals, do not specifically measure chloramines and do not provide the detailed information required for effective pool management.