Chlorine Dilution Calculator

It is intended for use by public health units, health care facilities, child care centres, swimming pool operators, and the general public (e.g., for disinfection of wells and homes).

Important: Always add the bleach solution to the water when preparing the solution, not vice versa.

Precautions

• Always follow safety precautions and the manufacturer's directions when working with concentrated solutions of bleach (sodium hypochlorite). To avoid injury, use appropriate personal protective equipment during handling (read the label and refer to the material safety data sheet).
• Chlorine bleach solution might damage some surfaces (e.g., metals, some plastics) so it is advisable to check with the manufacturer before using.
• For chlorine bleach solution to be effective, a certain amount of contact time with the surface is needed. Contact time varies according to what is being disinfected.
• Never mix chlorine bleach products with other cleaning products, especially glass cleaners, and products containing ammonia or acids such as vinegar. This practice can produce toxic gases which may include chlorine gas - a very toxic gas that can cause severe breathing problems, choking and potentially death.
• To be more effective, clean the surface before using the chlorine bleach solution.
• A bottle of bleach has a shelf life, so check the bottle for an expiry date or check with the manufacturer for the shelf life of the product.
• Do not premix the water and bleach solution, as it loses potency over time.

Equation

The calculation performed in this tool is based on the following equation: C1 x V1 = C2 x V2

• C1 is the initial concentration of the bleach (sodium hypochlorite) solution.
• V1 is the volume of the bleach to be diluted with water. This is what you are trying to calculate.
• C2 is the concentration of the diluted bleach solution you are preparing.
• V2 is the volume of bleach solution you are preparing.

Disclaimer

The dilution calculator is provided/being made available by Public Health Ontario without any warranties, express or implied, including fitness for a particular purpose. Public Health Ontario, its directors, employees and agents shall not be liable or responsible to any person for any harm, loss or damage that may arise in any connection with the use of the dilution calculator, including without limitation any direct, indirect, special, third party, or consequential damages.