---
title: "What Is Total chlorine? Pool Glossary | Marina Pool Services"
description: "Total chlorine is the sum of free chlorine and combined chlorine, as shown on a standard chlorine test."
url: https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/total-chlorine
publisher: Marina Pool Services
phone: +1-817-896-1120
quote: https://marinapool.multisites.ai/contact
---

Water chemistry

# Total chlorine

Total chlorine is the sum of free chlorine and combined chlorine, as shown on a standard chlorine test.

Total chlorine alone does not tell you if your pool is protected. A pool can read a healthy total and still have almost no active chlorine, because most of it is already used up.

To get the useful number, subtract [free chlorine](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/free-chlorine) from total chlorine. The result is [combined chlorine](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/combined-chlorine). If the gap is wide, the water needs a reset. A drop test kit separates the two readings better than a strip. Ask your pool pro to show you both numbers on the first visit.

## Related terms

-   [Free chlorine](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/free-chlorine)
-   [Combined chlorine](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/combined-chlorine)
-   [Drop test kit](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/drop-test-kit)
-   [Chloramine](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/chloramine)

## 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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