How can you determine the level of chloramines in the water?

To determine the level of chloramines in water, it is essential to differentiate between total chlorine and free chlorine. Total chlorine includes both free chlorine, which is an active sanitizer, and combined chlorine, which is associated with chloramines. By testing for these two levels and performing a simple calculation—subtracting the free chlorine measurement from the total chlorine measurement—you can accurately find the concentration of chloramines. This method is reliable and widely accepted in pool maintenance practices, as it provides a quantitative measure of chloramine levels, which are responsible for unpleasant odors and can contribute to irritation for swimmers.

The other options do not provide an accurate or reliable method for measuring chloramines. Measuring pH alone does not indicate chloramine levels, as pH reading reflects water acidity or alkalinity but not chlorine status. Observing water discoloration may suggest problems, but it is not a definitive measurement technique and can result from various other factors unrelated to chloramines. Finally, using a chlorine tablet cannot measure chloramines; it merely adds chlorine to the pool water and does not give any indication of existing chloramine levels.