If your pool or spa water looks a little cloudy, there’s no need to worry, as cloudy water is common and can be caused by various factors. Below, we will take a look at what might be causing your cloudy water, along with some tips on getting it back to its sparkling best!
Reasons For Cloudy Pool Water and Easy Fixes You Can Try
1. Pool Filtration Problems – One of the most common causes of cloudy pool water is mechanical problems with the filter. If your pool’s filtration system isn’t working properly, it won’t be able to clean† your water the right way, and it will cause your water to become cloudy. Regularly check your filter to ensure it has no build-up that would cause clogging and that it’s in good working condition. Also, check for any issues with your pump. Lastly, you may not be running your filter long enough, which leads to your water getting dirty and stagnant. If you’re not sure how to do repairs for these, you can always ask a professional for help.
2. Poor Water Balance – An imbalance in your pool or swim spa’s water can also cause it to become cloudy. This is usually due to too much or too little of a particular chemical, such as chlorine. The recommended chlorine content level in pools should be at least 1 ppm, and at least 3 ppm for swim spas. Regarding the pH levels, the ideal range is between 7.2 to 7.6. If your pool water is too acidic or too alkaline, it can also cause problems since it will render the chlorine ineffective. Test your pool’s pH levels regularly and make sure they are balanced. You can use a home test kit or take a sample of your water to a professional to test it. If you need more information regarding the right chemicals for your pool, it’s best to get in touch with a pool retailer near you.
3. Contaminants From People – Another common reason for cloudy pool or spa water is the presence of contaminants in the water. In many cases, cloudy water can be caused by excess particles from the swimmers themselves. Sunscreens and oils are the most common culprits, but other particles such as make-up, perspiration, body oils, etc., can also cause the problem. The combination of these chemicals and particles gathered from people who use the pool or swim spa affects the chemistry of the water and as a result, the appearance. An excellent solution to this problem is applying a pool clarifier and waiting about a day. The pool clarifier works as a coagulant that gathers small particles and substances, making it easier for the filtration system to capture them.
4. Environmental Debris – Leaves, twigs, flowers, and pollen can also affect water appearance and quality in pools and swim spas, especially when coupled with poor water circulation and filtration. While many pool and swim spa owners tend to think that these things are something they can just live with, having preventive installations like pool covers make a big difference and can save time. You can also set a regular cleaning† schedule that involves skimming the debris off the water’s surface, vacuuming the bottom, and backwashing or replacing your filter cartridges as needed.
Why It’s Important to Keep Your Pool Water From Turning Cloudy
Aside from the fact that it just looks unappealing, cloudy water can also be a sign of more significant problems that can affect your pool or swim spa and your health. When left untreated, cloudy water can lead to the growth of algae and bacteria. This is why it’s important to take action as soon as your water starts to get cloudy. By doing so, you can avoid larger problems from happening down the road and keep everyone safe and healthy in the process.
There are several reasons why your pool or swim spa’s water might turn cloudy, but the good news is that there are also several ways to fix it. With proper care and maintenance, you can keep your pool or swim spa looking clean† and clear all year long! If you’d like to learn how to choose the best swim spa for you and your home, download our free buyer’s guide.