Burnt Sugar Smell at the Pool Last night

A swimming pool that smells like burnt sugar, sweet maple syrup, or a heavy, stinging chemical odor is not a sign of "too much chlorine," but rather an indication of

high levels of combined chlorine, or chloramines. 

Here is a breakdown of why this happens, particularly in places like YMCA pools:

• The Cause (Chloramines): This odor is created when free chlorine reacts with contaminants in the water, such as sweat, lotions, skin oils, and urine.
• "Burnt" or "Sweet" Smell: While often described as a sharp bleach smell, many people describe the byproduct of this chemical reaction as a sickly sweet or burnt sugar/maple syrup scent.
• Sign of High Usage: Because YMCA pools often have high bather turnover (many people swimming) and are enclosed, these byproduct chemicals build up in the air and water.
• The Myth: People often think this smell means the pool is clean or has too much chlorine. In reality, it means the water is under-chlorinated and needs to be "shocked" to break down these contaminants.
• Health Effects: These chloramines are actually more harmful than chlorine itself, often causing itchy skin, burning eyes, and respiratory issues. 

What to do:
If the smell is overpowering, it is recommended to alert the YMCA management, as they may need to check their automated sanitizer systems and increase ventilation. To protect yourself, it is advised to shower thoroughly before swimming to reduce the organic material you bring into the water.