Sep 2, 2024

Maintaining a swimming pool can come with various challenges. Here are some common pool issues and how to address them:

1. Cloudy Water

• Causes: Poor filtration, high pH or alkalinity, high calcium hardness, or an insufficient chlorine level.
• Solutions:
  • Test and adjust chemical levels, ensuring pH is 7.2-7.6 and chlorine is 1-3 ppm.
  • Clean or replace the filter.
  • Use a pool clarifier or flocculant to remove suspended particles.

2. Algae Growth

• Causes: Low chlorine levels, poor circulation, or an imbalance in pool chemicals.
• Solutions:
  • Shock the pool with a high dose of chlorine.
  • Brush the walls and floor to remove algae.
  • Add an algaecide to prevent future growth.
  • Ensure proper circulation and filtration.

3. Green Pool Water

• Causes: Algae growth due to low chlorine levels or poor pool maintenance.
• Solutions:
  • Shock the pool and maintain a higher chlorine level until the water clears.
  • Brush and vacuum the pool.
  • Use an algaecide to treat and prevent algae.

4. Low Chlorine Levels

• Causes: High pool usage, heavy rain, or organic matter (leaves, debris) consuming chlorine.
• Solutions:
  • Add more chlorine to reach the desired level.
  • Regularly shock the pool, especially after heavy use or rain.
  • Use a stabilizer (cyanuric acid) to protect chlorine from sunlight degradation.

5. High Chlorine Levels

• Causes: Over-shocking the pool or adding too much chlorine.
• Solutions:
  • Stop adding chlorine and let sunlight naturally reduce the level.
  • Dilute the water by adding fresh water and removing some pool water.
  • Use a chlorine neutralizer if levels are excessively high.

6. Low pH Levels

• Causes: Rainwater, body oils, and sweat can lower pH.
• Solutions:
  • Add soda ash (sodium carbonate) to raise the pH.
  • Aim for a pH range of 7.2-7.6.

7. High pH Levels

• Causes: Adding too many alkaline chemicals or using well water.
• Solutions:
  • Add muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate to lower the pH.
  • Test and adjust pH regularly.

8. Scaling on Pool Surfaces

• Causes: High calcium hardness or high pH levels.
• Solutions:
  • Lower the calcium hardness level by partially draining and refilling the pool.
  • Maintain proper pH and alkalinity levels.
  • Use a scale inhibitor.

9. Staining on Pool Surfaces

• Causes: Metals in the water (iron, copper) or organic matter.
• Solutions:
  • Use a metal sequestrant to prevent metal staining.
  • Shock the pool and use a stain remover for organic stains.

10. Foamy Water

• Causes: High organic load, lotions, oils, or too much algaecide.
• Solutions:
  • Use a defoamer to remove foam.
  • Reduce the use of algaecide.
  • Regularly clean and shock the pool.

11. Cyanuric Acid Levels Too High

• Causes: Overuse of stabilized chlorine products.
• Solutions:
  • Partially drain and refill the pool to dilute the cyanuric acid.
  • Use unstabilized chlorine until levels are balanced.

12. Filter Issues

• Causes: Clogged or dirty filters, incorrect filter type or size.
• Solutions:
  • Clean or backwash the filter regularly.
  • Replace the filter media as needed.
  • Ensure the filter is the correct size and type for your pool.

Preventive Measures

• Regular Testing: Test your pool water at least weekly and after heavy use or rain.
• Consistent Maintenance: Regularly clean the pool, skim debris, and vacuum the floor.
• Proper Circulation: Run the pump and filter system for at least 8-12 hours a day.
• Balanced Chemicals: Maintain proper chemical levels to prevent problems.

By understanding these common pool issues and their solutions, you can keep your pool in excellent condition, ensuring a safe and enjoyable swimming environment.

Brian’s Pool Care offers solutions to any pool problem you may be experiencing in Ahwatukee, AZ. Give us a call today at 480-907-7959 for more information or to schedule pool services.