PHOENIX (KVOA) – The Arizona Department of Agriculture (AZDA) is alerting Arizonans about a concerning high failure rate in liquid pool chlorine products sold statewide.

Over the Independence Day holiday, 22 batches of liquid pool chlorine were sampled by AZDA from various retailers during routine testing of products.

It was revealed that 77 percent of sampled products, 17 of 22 batches, contained less chlorine than advertised with some as low as 6 percent, similar to household bleach levels, officials said.

“We want Arizonans to be informed so they can make smart decisions about their pool maintenance,” said AZDA Director Paul Brierley.

The AZDA emphasizes the importance of proper pool sanitation, especially during Arizona’s hot summer months. Liquid chlorine is sensitive to heat and sunlight, which can reduce its effectiveness if stored improperly.

Consumers are encouraged to ask retailers about their chlorine storage practices and consider using granular chlorine for better stability, AZDA said.

Regular pool testing for pH and alkalinity is also advised, regardless of the chlorine type used.

The AZDA said it aims to empower consumers with these insights to ensure safe and effective pool maintenance.