A brominated system contains inactive bromide salts. These bromide ions are reactivated by oxidisers to create active hypobromous acid. These bromide ions cannot be easily removed from the water. If chlorinating products are applied to a system that has been using brominating products, the chlorinating product is used as a catalyst to reactivate the bromide ions. This typically takes much more product than simply operating a chlorination system and may increase the chlorinating compound consumption for 1½ to 2 seasons.
The pool can be drained to eliminate these ions completely. If you choose to drain the pool, be aware than certain factors should be considered, such as the water table in your area, the type of pool construction, etc. Consult your builder or manufacturer before draining the pool.