Covid-19 Pool And Spa Guidance
Can the virus which causes COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2, formerly known as 2019 novel coronavirus) spread through pools and hot tubs?
“There is no evidence that the virus which causes COVID-19 can be spread through the use of pools and hot tubs. As always, it is important to conduct proper routine operation, maintenance, and disinfection (e.g. with chlorine or bromine) of pools and hot tubs to kill bacteria and keep pools and hot tubs clean.”
Clorox Pool&Spa recommends pool and hot tub operators diligently follow proper pool maintenance practices. Follow EPA registered product label directions to maintain recommended chlorine residual.
- Ensure that your pool or hot tub continuously maintains a free available chlorine residual of 1-4 ppm or for bromine a 2-5 ppm residual, with an EPA registered sanitizer.
Critical Water Testing Parameters | ||
| Minimum | Recommended Range |
Free Chlorine | 1 ppm | 1-4 ppm |
pH | 7.2 | 7.2 – 7.6 |
Other Water Balance Parameters | ||
| Minimum | Recommended Range |
Total Alkalinity | 80 ppm | 125-150 ppm |
Calcium Hardness | 175 ppm | 175-275ppm |
Follow all label directions for proper use. For commercial pools, review local and/or state health codes.
- Operate your pump at least 8-12 hours per day to assure proper circulation and filtration.
- Disinfect surfaces around the pool with an EPA registered disinfectant hard surface cleaner to prevent transmission of the virus through touching of contaminated surfaces.
- Do not swim if you show symptoms of being sick. Follow guidance by CDC, Public Health Officials and/ or Medical Provider.
Reference:
Information on COVID-19 is changing daily. A reliable source of information is the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html.
Additional information regarding proper swimming pool operation can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/.
