Can coronavirus live and spread in your swimming pool?

The truth is that your swimming pool is a fortress of fun while practicing social distancing. If it’s properly maintained, the pool is a safe place for you and your family.

“There is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of pools and hot tubs,” advises the CDC. Proper operation, maintenance, and disinfection (e.g., with chlorine and bromine) of pools and hot tubs should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19.”

Inspect your pool by checking the water’s pH and free chlorine or bromine concentration with test strips found at hardware and pool supply stores before jumping in. The Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group says that the proper amount of chlorine in swimming pools will deactivate the virus. This goes for saltwater pools as well – the salt will convert into chlorine. The Solar-Breeze NX2 has a built-in chemical dispenser that will ensure the entire pool is sanitized and crystal clear.

Personal hygiene out of the water is critical. Touching a surface at the pool that has the virus on it, or swimming with an infected person who may transmit respiratory droplets will put you at risk. Shower before and after swimming and disinfect your hands with soap and water often. Wash and maintain clean swimming suits and towels.

Overall, caution is key. With many individuals and families at home right now, we encourage use of the backyard swimming pool as weather permits, especially for health and sanity. If you do find serenity by the pool, please #ShowUsYourPool.