When sanitizing with chlorine, what should the temperature of the chlorine solution be?

When sanitizing with chlorine, the ideal temperature for the chlorine solution is around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, chlorine operates effectively to kill harmful bacteria and other pathogens. The efficacy of chlorine as a sanitizer can diminish significantly at lower temperatures because the chlorine may not dissolve well or may be less active at those levels. Conversely, higher temperatures, particularly anything significantly above 75 degrees, can lead to the rapid evaporation of chlorine, reducing its concentration and effectiveness as a sanitizer.

Furthermore, using very hot water, such as in the case of temperatures approaching 171 degrees Fahrenheit, can damage food contact surfaces or certain types of equipment, negating the benefits of the sanitization process. Therefore, maintaining the solution at approximately 75 degrees ensures that it retains its effectiveness while being safe for various surfaces and materials.