Swimming Pool Troubleshooting: How To Fix Pool Problems?

Pool water problems can make the water milky, cloudy or completely green. These changes are a visual problem and can indicate serious water quality issues in the pool. The most common causes for such pool water problems are organic contamination, insufficient disinfection, incorrect pH levels and filter issues. Algae growth, which is promoted by too little chlorine and non-optimal pH levels, leads to green water in the pool basin. Cloudy or milky water often results from fine dirt particles that the filter cannot retain.

To fix these problems as a private pool owner, the water parameters need to be regularly checked and the pool care adjusted accordingly. The following article explains the most common causes of pool water problems and how to correct these mistakes.

What Are The Most Common Causes Of Water Problems In Pools?

Here is a list of twelve problems and their causes for water issues in pools. The causes of water problems in pools are listed below.

Cloudy pool water: Usually caused by too many organic contaminants or too little disinfectant in the water.
Turbid pool water: Can be caused by dirt particles such as skin flakes, hair, plant parts, or dead insects that are too small for the filter.
Green water: Algae growth due to too little chlorine in the water and a pH level that is not optimally adjusted.
Algae in the pool: Caused by insufficient water care, incorrect pH level, or too high phosphate levels.
Pests in the water: Can be caused by poor hygiene and inadequate pool coverage.
Sand deposits: Sand deposits on the pool floor are a sign of problems with the filtration system or incorrect handling of the backwash process.
Stains in the pool: Can be caused by metal deposits such as iron or copper, which can occur especially when using well water.
Limescale deposits: Caused by a too high pH level or too high calcium hardness of the water.
Foam on the water surface: Can be caused by the use of suntan oil and cosmetics or by overdosing pool chemicals.
Nitrates in the water: Can enter the pool through environmental influences such as fertilizers or rainwater and promote algae growth.
Problems with pool technology: Defective pool pumps can be caused by too much moisture, dirty motors, or incorrect wiring.

In the following chapters, each problem with the pool water is explained and how to fix them.

How To Clean Milky Pool Water?

Cloudy pool water is often a sign of poor water balance and can be caused by various factors. The most common causes include too short filter run times, a lack of disinfectants, an oversaturation with suspended particles, or a too high pH level that leads to lime precipitation.

Here are 5 steps to clean cloudy pool water.

Checking the water values: Using water testers, it should be checked whether there are sufficient disinfectants and whether the pH level, alkalinity and calcium hardness are in the ideal range.
Optimizing the water balance: First, the alkalinity should be corrected, then the pH level and finally the calcium hardness. Ideal values are an alkalinity of 80 to 120 mg/l (80 to 120 ppm), a pH level of 7.2-7.6 and a calcium hardness of 200 to 400 mg/l (200 to 400 ppm).
Adding disinfectants: After the water balance in the pool water has been established, stabilized chlorine or alternative disinfectants should be added to the pool. The use of flocculants can also improve filtration.
Running time of the filtration system: The filtration system should run until the water in the pool is clear again. Usually 24 to 36 hours are required. For light turbidity, a running time of 8 to 12 hours may be sufficient.

To avoid cloudy water, regular pool maintenance is important. This includes checking and cleaning the filtration system, regularly checking the water values and properly dosing pool chemicals. In extreme cases, when other measures are not successful, a partial or complete water change may be necessary to restore water quality.

How To Clean Turbid Pool Water?

The most common reasons for turbid water in the pool are insufficient disinfectant, too short filter run times, lime precipitation due to a too high pH value, or an oversaturation of the water with organic fine particles.

To clean turbid pool water, the following 4 steps should be followed.

Checking and adjusting the water values: The water values should be checked and optimized with a water tester. The pH value should be between 7.2 and 7.6. If necessary, correct the pH value with pH-minus or pH-plus.
Use of pool chemicals: After adjusting the water values, optimization with pool chemicals can be done. This includes the addition of disinfectants such as chlorine and, if necessary, the use of a flocculent to improve filtration.
Extension of filter run times: Sometimes it is enough to simply extend the filter run times to get the pool water clear again. The filter system should run until the water is clear again, usually 24 to 36 hours.
Manual pool cleaning: Pool walls and floor should be freed from deposits. This includes vacuuming the floor and walls as well as brushing coatings.

To avoid turbid water in the future, regular water values should be measured, the filter run times adjusted and the pool kept clean. A pool cover can additionally help to reduce contamination. A regular inspection and maintenance of the filter system is important to ensure that it works effectively. This also includes backwashing the sand filter or replacing the filter cartridge on cartridge filter systems. By following these steps, turbid pool water can be effectively cleaned and the water quality improved.

How to Clean Green Pool Water?

Green water in the pool is usually caused by algae growth, which is favored by various factors. The main causes include an unbalanced pH value, insufficient disinfection, too short filter run times or too little circulation of the water. Algae need nutrients such as nitrate and phosphate, which enter the pool water via urine, sweat or other organic materials.

To clean green water in the pool, the following 5 steps are necessary.

Remove coarse dirt and algae: Manually remove dirt and algae with a pool skimmer and a pool brush or a bottom vacuum.
Adjust pH value: Check the pH value of the water and adjust it to the ideal range between 7.2 and 7.6, as an unbalanced pH value impairs the effectiveness of disinfectants.
Perform shock chlorination: Perform shock chlorination with a high chlorine content above 3 mg/l (3 ppm) to kill algae and bacteria. It is important that the chlorine content is below 1.5 mg/l (1.5 ppm) in the pool water 24 hours after shock chlorination.
Flocculation and turbidity removal: Use a flocculent to bind the finest turbidity particles and have them removed by the filter system. This ensures crystal clear water.
Filter backwash: After treatment, perform a filter backwash to remove neutralized residues.

After cleaning, the green pool water should be clear again. To prevent renewed algae infestation in the pool, add an algaecide to the water. The basic dosage is 100 ml per 10 m³ of pool water, with a weekly re-dosing of 250 ml (0.25 l). The pool water must also be tested and optimized regularly. The filter run times in the pool should be 8 hours per day. The pool should be covered when not in use to minimize the entry of dirt and nutrients.

How To Remove Algae In The Pool?

Algae in the pool occur when there is not enough algaecide in the water. An incorrect pH level or contamination from leaves, hair, skin flakes or sunscreen can also lead to algae growth in pool water. Especially in hot weather and correspondingly heated pool water, this promotes algae growth.

To remove algae in the pool and prevent re-infestation, the following 6 steps should be followed.

Checking the pH level: The pH level should be between 7.2 and 7.6 to create optimal conditions for pool care.
Manual cleaning: Manually brush algae off the floor and walls and stir up. Vacuum as completely as possible, ideally directly into the drain to effectively remove dirt.
Strong shock chlorination: Perform a shock chlorination with 200 grams (0.2 kg) of fast-dissolving chlorine granules per 10 m³ of water. Add the chlorine at the inlet nozzles and set the filter system to continuous operation.
Add algaecide: After shock chlorination, add an algaecide to effectively prevent algae growth. The dosage depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Clean the filter system and use the filter pump: Thoroughly clean the filter system and let the filter pump run continuously for at least 24 hours to filter out algae residue and chemicals from the water.
Recheck pH level: After pool cleaning, recheck the pH level and adjust if necessary to stabilize the water quality in the pool.

Regular checking and adjustment of water values as well as the use of algae preventers can help keep algae out of the pool in the long term.

How To Remove Pests From Pool Water?

Pests in pool water often get into pools through the natural attraction of water and multiply there when conditions are favorable.

To effectively remove pests from pool water and prevent future infestation, the following 3 steps are recommended.

Use pool pump and skimmer against water beetles: An efficient method to remove water beetles is to use a surface skimmer. This sucks up floating insects and catches them in the basket. It is important to use a skimmer with a flap to prevent insects from getting back into the water.
Vacuum insects from the bottom of the pool with the bottom vacuum: For water beetles that stay at the bottom of the pool, a bottom vacuum can be used. This effectively removes insects and algae residue from the water.
Brush the pool and remove algae: Brushing the pool removes algae and other food sources for water beetles. This reduces the attractiveness of the pool for these insects.

To keep water beetles away from the pool permanently, regular pool care and maintenance as well as maintaining good water quality are crucial. In addition, a pool cover can help keep water beetles and other pests away from the pool.

How To Remove Sand Deposits From The Pool?

Sand in the pool is often introduced by swimmers, wind, or a defective sand filter system.

Below are 3 essential steps to remove sand from the pool.

Use a pool vacuum: A pool vacuum is effective at sucking up sand in the pool.
Use a skimmer: A skimmer can help catch floating sand on the surface of the water.
Check and repair the sand filter system: Check the pool’s sand filter system to ensure it is functioning properly and repair any damage.

A foot bath or outdoor shower can prevent sand from getting into the pool via swimmers. A pool cover is also practical to prevent sand from being blown into the pool by the wind. In rare cases, what is thought to be sand is actually mustard algae, which has a similar appearance.

How To Clean Stains In The Pool?

Stains in the pool can be caused by various factors, including algae, rust, limescale, and other deposits. These stains affect the appearance of the pool and require specific cleaning methods.

Below are 5 steps to remove stains in the pool.

Identify the type of stain: It is important to determine the type of stain, as the cleaning method depends on it. Organic stains often result from leaves, algae, or other natural materials, while inorganic stains can be caused by metals such as iron or copper.
Adjust the pool water: Before treating the stains, the pool water should be balanced. The pH should be between 7.2 and 7.6, the alkalinity between 80-120 mg/l (80-120 ppm), and the calcium hardness between 200-400 mg/l (200-400 ppm).
Use a pool brush: For organic stains, a pool brush can be used to scrub the stains. This is often effective for green algae stains.
Chlorine treatment: Shock chlorination can help with organic stains. Chlorine granules are sprinkled locally or throughout the pool and the chlorine is left to work for 24 hours before the pool is scrubbed again.
Use of specialty cleaners: For stubborn inorganic stains, such as limescale or metal deposits, special pool stain removers or acid treatments may be required. Care should be taken and the manufacturer’s instructions should be followed closely.

It is important to exercise caution when using chemicals in the pool and to wear personal protective equipment. Regular pool maintenance helps minimize the risk of stains and maintain water quality.

Here is the English translation of your article “Swimming Pool Troubleshooting: How To Fix Pool Problems?”:

How To Clean Calcium Deposits In A Pool?

Calcium deposits in a pool are caused by high pH levels, high water hardness, or the use of calcium-containing chlorine products.

To remove calcium deposits in a pool, 5 steps are required. The 5 steps are listed below.

Lowering the pH level: The pH level should be between 7.2 and 7.6 to avoid calcium deposits in the pool and dissolve existing deposits.
Manual removal: Light calcium deposits can be scrubbed off the walls and floor of the pool with a pool brush.
Use of cleaning agents: Special acidic cleaning agents that work against calcium in the pool can be used to remove calcium deposits.
Vacuuming the dissolved calcium: After treatment with cleaning agents, the dissolved calcium should be removed from the bottom with a pool vacuum.
Use of flocculants: Flocculants can help bind fine calcium particles and remove them through the filtration system.

It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using cleaning agents and to take protective measures such as wearing gloves and goggles. It should also be ensured that the agents used are compatible with the pool material and do not cause damage. To prevent calcium deposits, the pH level and water hardness should be regularly checked and adjusted.

How To Clean Foam From The Pool Water Surface?

Foam on the pool water surface occurs when the surface tension of the water is lowered by various substances. Common causes are residues from care products such as soaps, shampoos, sunscreens, or detergent residues in swimwear. Incorrect application of pool chemicals, especially algaecides, can also lead to foam formation.

To remove foam in the pool, the following 5 steps are helpful.

Clean pool and filtration system: Use the backwash function of the filtration system.
Measure and adjust chlorine level: A shock chlorination is necessary to neutralize organic substances that contribute to foam formation.
Check and adjust pH level: An unbalanced pH level can contribute to foam formation.
Removal of foam: Use a skimmer to remove the foam from the water surface.
Use of a pool defoamer: As a short-term solution, a special agent can be used that dissolves the foam in the pool.

To prevent foam formation in the pool, it is important to shower before swimming to remove residues from care products. In addition, the pool chemistry should be regularly checked and correctly dosed. The use of non-foaming algaecides is also recommended.

How To Clean Nitrates And Phosphates In Pool Water?

Nitrates and phosphates in pool water are unwanted substances that promote algae growth and cloud the water. Nitrates and phosphates often enter the pool water through fertilizers, rainwater, or organic waste such as leaves and insects.

To remove nitrates and phosphates from the pool water, the following 5 steps are necessary.

Testing the water: Before treatment, the pool water should be tested for nitrate and phosphate levels to determine the extent of contamination.
Filtration: A thorough backwash of the filter can help remove accumulated phosphates and other impurities.
Phosphate removers: Special phosphate removers bind phosphates in the water so they can be removed by the filter. These should be applied according to the manufacturer’s dosage instructions.
Water circulation: After treatment with phosphate remover, the filtration system should run for 48 hours to distribute the chemicals throughout the pool water and ensure effective removal.
Shock chlorination: Shock chlorination can break down organic contaminants that serve as a nutrient source for algae, thus indirectly contributing to the reduction of nitrates and phosphates.

In severe cases, a partial or complete water change may be necessary to lower high nitrate and phosphate levels. To avoid future contamination, sources of nitrates and phosphates should be identified and eliminated. This includes avoiding fertilizers near the pool and regularly removing organic waste from the water.

How To Avoid Water Problems In Your Pool?

It is difficult to avoid all water problems in your pool, because unforeseen events can always occur that require pool cleaning. The general solution to avoiding water problems in the pool is a proper pool care routine, regular checks, identifying the causes of water problems in the pool, and quick pool cleaning so the problem does not get worse.

To avoid these water problems in your swimming pool, 6 preventive measures are listed below.

Regular water testing: The water in the swimming pool should be regularly tested for chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and cyanuric acid levels and optimized with pool chemicals.
Adequate filtration: The filtration system must run daily for at least 6 hours to circulate and filter the entire pool water.
Use enough chlorine: The adequate addition of chlorine minimizes the need for shock chlorination to eliminate organic contaminants and reduce chloramines. A strong chlorine odor is often a sign of chloramines, which form when chlorine reacts with organic substances such as urine or sweat. This indicates insufficient disinfection.
Algae control: Use algaecides as a preventive measure against algae growth in the pool, especially in the warmer months.
Cleanliness in and around the pool: Keep the pool and surrounding area clean. Quickly remove leaves, dirt, and other foreign objects from the water.

By following these measures, many common water problems in the pool are avoided, leading to a cleaner, safer, and more enjoyable swimming experience.