---
title: "What Is Chloramine? Pool Glossary | Marina Pool Services"
description: "Chloramines are compounds formed when chlorine bonds with nitrogen from sweat and urine, causing the strong pool smell and eye irritation."
url: https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/chloramine
publisher: Marina Pool Services
phone: +1-817-896-1120
quote: https://marinapool.multisites.ai/contact
---

Water chemistry

# Chloramine

Chloramines are compounds formed when chlorine bonds with nitrogen from sweat and urine, causing the strong pool smell and eye irritation.

That sharp "pool smell" is not too much chlorine. It is chloramines, a sign the chlorine is tied up with waste. They can irritate eyes, skin, and the nose and throat, according to CDC.

Chloramines rise when the pool is busy, when rain washes in debris, or when free chlorine runs low. Adding more of the same chlorine rarely fixes it. The usual fix is to raise chlorine high enough to break them apart, called [breakpoint chlorination](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/breakpoint-chlorination). Keep the pool open to fresh air during treatment, and follow the product label.

[Marina can helpPool Maintenance Services](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/our-services/pool-maintenance-services)

## Related terms

-   [Combined chlorine](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/combined-chlorine)
-   [Breakpoint chlorination](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/breakpoint-chlorination)
-   [Chlorine odor](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/chlorine-odor)
-   [Shock](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/shock)

## Sources

1.  [CDC Healthy Swimming: Chloramines and Pool Operation](https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-swimming/toolkit/chloramines-and-pool-operation.html)

## Need a hand with your pool?

Call or text and tell us what your pool needs. Estimates are free for qualifying services, and same-day estimates are possible when the schedule allows.

[Call (817) 896-1120](tel:+1-817-896-1120)[Get a quote](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/contact)

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