Is your swimming pool water cloudy?
Being a swimming pool owner is one of the most wonderful things about homeownership. It allows you to invite friends and family over for a weekend pool party or to relax after a long week. If you are so inclined, it is also a great way to get exercise.
However, as a pool owner, you will have to deal with maintenance issues from time to time. For example, if you notice that the water is cloudy, it is important you take care of this right away. Since the cleanliness of your pool is always paramount, you are going to help you out by explaining the common causes of cloudy pool water and how to fix these problems.
Common Causes of Cloudy Pool Water
Even though cloudy pool water can be a mystery to many homeowners, the reason behind it usually is not too difficult to narrow down. To get you started, here are the most common causes to watch out for:
Filter and Pump Issues
If you are experiencing cloudy pool water, there may be a mechanical problem with your filtration system or the way you are utilizing it. If you are only letting the system run a few hours each day, your pool may not be getting cleaned sufficiently. On the other hand, if you are running it all day and the water is not clearing up, then broken parts, a clogged filter, a water flow issue, or a full skimmer basket may be the culprit.
Chemical Imbalance
Very often, the reason your pool water has become cloudy is due to a chemical imbalance. In addition to cloudy water, a low or high pH level could result in stinging eyes, skin irritation, and other related issues. What you will need to do is test the water to see if it needs to be shocked. Just keep in mind that pool water can get cloudy after it gets shocked and will typically clear up on its own.
Environmental Factors
Your swimming pool is subjected to many types of environmental factors on a daily basis. Dust, pollen, trees, weather, and even construction are all contributing factors. The most common environmental factors that can cloud up the water, however, include natural items that people bring into the pool such as dirt, oils, dead skin, sweat, and hair, in addition to man-made products for skin and hair care.
How to Fix Causes of Cloudy Pool Water
Cloudy water can sometimes seem like nothing more than a slight annoyance, but it can also be hazardous to your health, depending on the cause. To ensure that your water stays clear and healthy, let’s take a look at a few ways to fix cloudy pool water:
How to Fix Pool Filter and Pump Issues
One important thing to remember is that your filtration system needs to run at least eight hours every day to properly clean the pool. Not running it long enough is often a reason for cloudy water and this can easily be fixed.
It’s also important you occasionally empty out the skimmer basket and backwash the pump to avoid clogs and ensure a healthy flow of water. If none of these seem to be a problem and you can’t find any broken or worn-out parts, then it’s time to call a professional repairman.
How to Fix a Chemical Imbalance
If you are a swimming pool owner, then you’ll sooner or later need to deal with a chemical imbalance. The good news is that maintaining or fixing your chlorine levels is not too difficult. You’ll simply need to purchase a pool test kit, determine if the pH level is high or low, and then treat it accordingly.
If the pH level is too high, you would need to shock your pool so that it can be balanced again. For pH levels that are too low, you can add alkaline products such as sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) or pool chemicals.
How to Fix Environmental Factors
Many homeowners seem to think cloudy water due to environmental factors is simply something you must live with. Some may install a pool cover to block some of these issues, but that doesn’t stop the problem of skin, oils, makeup, and other human items getting into the pool and overwhelming the filtration system.
The good news is that this is easy to fix. Simply apply a pool clarifier to the water and wait for approximately 24 hours. This coagulant works by bonding small pieces of debris together, which makes it easier for the filters to catch.
Contact Larsen’s Pool & Spa for Help with Cloudy Pool Water
As the premier custom pool builder in Tampa Bay, Larsen’s Pool & Spa can help you with all of your pool and spa installation needs, including both new installations and swimming pool renovations. If you have any other questions about cloudy pool water or would like to receive a free quote for our pool builder services, give us a call at (727) 786-POOL (7665) today.