Is Cloudy Pool Water Dangerous?

Nobody wants their pool water to look cloudy–it looks unsightly and is often indicative of other issues. As you research how to clear up a cloudy saltwater pool, you may be wondering how necessary it is to spend time fixing the issue. This is largely determined by the causes of cloudy pool water whether the cloudiness is a hazard of any sort.

What Causes Cloudy Pool Water?

Cloudy pool water can occur for different reasons, all of which are relatively common. For one, your water may be too hard; in other words, it may have too much calcium in it. This can cause cloudiness in your water. 

You may have heard about keeping your pool free from phosphates because it will keep algae out of your pool, which then begs the question–can algae cause cloudy pool water? It can, so you really don’t want algae in your water. 

In addition, sunscreen can come off swimmers’ skin easily and end up in your pool, causing cloudiness. This is unfortunate because we all know the importance of wearing sunblock when spending time outdoors. Cloudy pool water isn’t a sign that you’re doing anything wrong–it can happen from everyday activity and chemical imbalances.

Is There a Quick Fix for Cloudy Water?

You may have heard that putting household bleach into your pool can clear up any cloudiness, but this is not a great idea. Does bleach clear cloudy pool water? It can clear up mild cloudiness, but there are often additives in bleach that can cause chemical imbalances in the water, leading to even more cloudiness in the long run. Bleach can also damage your pool’s equipment, cover, and surfaces, so it’s best to stay away from it as much as possible.

Is Cloudiness Dangerous?

Cloudy pool water isn’t just unappealing to look at–it can also pose some particular safety issues. For example, it’s much harder to see someone drowning when the water is cloudy, making a prompt rescue more difficult. Additionally, the chemical imbalances that cause cloudiness can cause urinary tract infections and stomach bugs. 

Lastly, it can be hard to see the bottom of the pool floor when the water is cloudy. This can cause people to misjudge whether it’s safe to jump or dive into the water. Diving into shallow water can lead to serious injuries, so it’s important to be mindful of how deep the pool is at all times. 

Final Thoughts

When your pool water looks clean, more people will want to swim in it. Several factors play a role in pool water clarity, and everyone wants theirs to be as clear as possible. When cloudiness occurs, it’s more than just an aesthetic problem–it can be dangerous, too. 

If you’re looking for tips for making pool water less cloudy and safer to swim in, Pool Care Guy has you covered. Take a look at our latest content for more tips and tricks on keeping your pool or spa clear, healthy, and ready for use. With our guidance, you can battle any pool issue that comes your way!