What to Use for Cloudy Pool Water

If you want to relax and unwind, there are few things better than jumping into a pristine,  crystal-clear pool. As a pool owner, you want to ensure your pool is safe and welcoming at all times, so it can be a real headache if you don’t know how to fix cloudy green pool water.

Cloudy pool water is usually the result of one or several factors: poor filtration, improper pH balance, or inconsistent maintenance. You may even have to deal with cloudy water after a water softener installation.

In this piece, we’ll look at how swimming pools can become cloudy, and how these issues can be prevented.

Causes of Cloudy Pool Water and How to Prevent Them

Cleaning and Filtration

Cleaning and filtration is a crucial component of any pool’s maintenance. The filtration system is responsible for removing debris, dirt, and other contaminants from the pool water. If the filtration system is not functioning correctly, debris will remain in the water and result in a cloudy pool.

The pool should be cleaned and vacuumed regularly in order to ensure debris and sediment do not accrue. Proper filtration is also essential to keeping your pool clean. To ensure these systems work correctly, you should backwash and clean them regularly. 

When required, make sure you also change the cartridges or the sand, depending on the filter system you have. If you don’t check and clean your filters, not only will your pool suffer, but you’ll likely also have to replace the filters themselves. 

Improper pH Balance

Maintaining a balanced pH level in your swimming pool is crucial. A high pH means that the effectiveness of chlorine is diminished, leading to algae growth, skin and eye irritation, and high calcium levels. If the pH is too low, the water can become corrosive, causing damage to your pool equipment and surfaces. 

Can low calcium cause cloudy water? Absolutely–your pH levels must be monitored carefully and adjusted when needed. This can be done using a high-quality pH test kit regularly and following the recommended treatment process to maintain a balanced level between 7.2 and 7.8. A little bit of effort in managing the pH level of your pool water will keep the water sparkling clean and extend the life of your pool equipment.

Unbalanced Chlorine Levels

Chlorine is an essential chemical for killing bacteria and other harmful organisms in your pool. However, if the chlorine levels in the water are too high or too low, the chemical can become less effective and cloud your pool. 

Excess chlorine causes particles to clump together, clouding the water. Not enough chlorine will allow bacteria and other harmful microorganisms to thrive, also leading to cloudy water. 

It’s important to maintain a balanced chlorine level at all times. Make sure you check levels regularly and add the right amount of chlorine to your pool based on the manufacturer’s instructions.

Environmental Factors 

Factors like rainfall, high temperatures, and heavy winds can contribute to the accumulation of debris and other organic matter in your pool, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and algae. 

By taking proactive measures, such as covering your pool when it’s not in use and  making sure it’s shaded when needed, you can reduce the risk of your pool becoming cloudy.

In Conclusion

Thankfully, most causes of cloudy water are identifiable and can be solved easily. Should the problem prove difficult to solve, you might need to consider shocking your pool so you can get your sparkling, clear water back as soon as possible!