Solutions for Cloudy Pool Water

Is your pool water cloudy? We know you want to fix this quickly so you can get back to safely enjoying your swimming pool. Four common issues that cause cloudy pool water: poor filtration, contaminants, low chlorine levels, or poor water chemistry can all be fixed with the right methods.

Today, we’re here to teach you how to clear cloudy pool water fast.

Here is a helpful guide from Empire Pools, your go-to pool service provider in Loing Island.

Causes of Cloudy Pool Water and How to Fix Them

To know how to fix cloudy pool water, you first need to understand the causes. So, here are the main causes of cloudy pool water and how to fix them:

1. Poor Filtration

A properly functioning pump and filter is critical to keep your pool clean and clear.

How to improve filtration:

Clean the Filter and Baskets
Check Filter Media
Enhance Filtration Time: Run the pump for at least 8-12 hours a day for adequate water circulation and filtration.
Upgrade Filtration System: If your filter system is outdated or underperforming, consider upgrading to a more efficient model.

2. Contaminants

Contaminants such as debris, algae, or other small particles can cloud the water and make it unsafe for swimming.

How to treat algae:

Algaecide: Use a pool algaecide to kill existing algae.
Shock Treatment: A chlorine shock treatment kills algae spores and bacteria. Repeat as necessary until the water clears.
Maintain Chlorine Levels: Keep free chlorine levels between 1-3 ppm to prevent future algae growth.

Additionally, regularly maintain your pool by clearing it of debris. This includes skimming the surface for larger debris like leaves and insects, vacuuming the pool bottoms, and cleaning the walls.

3. Low Chlorine Levels

Insufficient chlorine can lead to algae growth, while too much can cause irritation and cloudy water. Chlorine levels drop for several reasons, including the buildup of debris or bodily contaminants like sunscreen.

Regularly test your pool to ensure free chlorine levels remain between 1 and 3 parts per million (ppm).

Shock your pool with calcium hypochlorite shock to increase chlorine levels to remove contaminants.

A Crystal Clear Pool Is A Call Away

4. Poor Water Chemistry

There is more to pool chemistry than simply chlorine. High pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness can cause your pool to become cloudy and impact the plumbing.

So, it’s important to regularly test and balance your pool chemicals.

The proper chemical levels are:

pH: 7.4 to 7.6
Alkalinity: 100 to 150 ppm
Calcium Hardness: 200 to 275 ppm for concrete and plaster pools

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried balancing chemicals, cleaning the filter, and ensuring proper water circulation, but your pool is still cloudy, it may be time to call a professional.

At Empire Pools, our team of experienced professionals is ready to diagnose and fix your pool issues. Don’t let cloudy water spoil your fun; contact us today to help you get back to swimming.