What is the purpose of monitoring chlorine residual in water systems?

Monitoring chlorine residual in water systems is essential for maintaining disinfection effectiveness. Chlorine is widely used as a disinfectant in water treatment to eliminate harmful pathogens and ensure that the water is safe for consumption.

By measuring the chlorine residual, operators can confirm that there is sufficient chlorine present in the water to continuously inhibit the growth of microbes and to effectively neutralize any contaminants. If levels of chlorine residual are too low, there may be an insufficient disinfection process, posing health risks to consumers. Conversely, if the residual is too high, it could lead to taste and odor issues, or potentially harmful byproducts.

Therefore, regular monitoring allows for adjusting the chlorine dosage as needed, ensuring that the water treatment system remains effective in providing safe drinking water.