There’s nothing more refreshing than taking a dip in a sparkling, crystal-clear pool on a hot summer day. But what if your pool looks more like a murky pond than a shimmering oasis? Cloudy pool water can be a real party pooper, but don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.
What Is Cloudy Pool Water?
Cloudy pool water, or turbidity, is a common issue that pool owners face. It’s when your pool water loses clarity, appearing hazy, foggy, or milky. While it might look unappealing, cloudy pool water can also indicate underlying issues that must be addressed.
Is It Safe To Swim In A Cloudy Pool?
Pool designs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from traditional rectangular or kidney-shaped pools to free-form designs that mimic the look of a natural pond or lake.
However, swimming in a cloudy pool may not always be dangerous, but it isn’t advisable. The cloudiness indicates that something is off with your pool’s maintenance, and it could harbor harmful bacteria or algae. To be on the safe side, it’s best to avoid swimming in a cloudy pool until the issue is resolved and the water is clear.
What Causes A Cloudy Pool?
It’s not safe to swim in pool water cloudy with bacteria or algae. There are several reasons why a pool can become cloudy, and understanding the cause can help you address the issue more effectively. Common causes include:
Poor Filtration
A pool’s filtration system removes debris and impurities from the water. If the filter is clogged or not functioning correctly, it can lead to cloudy water. To fix this issue, clean or replace the filter cartridge, backwash the sand filter, or clean the diatomaceous earth (DE) filter grids as needed.
Additionally, ensure that your pool pump runs for an adequate amount each day (typically 8-12 hours) to keep the water circulating and clean.
Low Chlorine Levels
Chlorine is the primary sanitizer used in pools to kill bacteria and other contaminants. When the chlorine levels in your pool are too low, it can cause the water to become cloudy. To rectify this, regularly test the chlorine levels using a pool test kit and adjust the amount added to the pool as needed.
There are also different types of pools, such as vinyl liner pools, fiberglass pools, and concrete or gunite pools. However, maintaining a proper chlorine level (usually between 1-3 parts per million) is important to keep the water clear and safe for swimming.
Poor Water Chemistry: High pH, Alkalinity, and Calcium Hardness Levels
Improper water chemistry can cause cloudy pool water. When the pH, alkalinity, or calcium hardness levels are too high, it can lead to imbalanced water that can’t effectively sanitize or filter out impurities. To fix this, test the water regularly and adjust the levels as needed. Aim for a pH of 7.4-7.6, alkalinity of 80-120 parts per million, and calcium hardness of 200-400 parts per million.
Contaminants, Like Debris or Algae
Contaminants, or even sunscreen and body oils, can cause your pool water to become cloudy. To address this, regularly skim and vacuum the pool to remove debris, use a pool brush to scrub the walls and floor, and use an algaecide to treat and prevent algae growth.
Additionally, encourage swimmers to shower before entering the pool to help reduce the introduction of contaminants.
Winterize a pool before the cold weather arrives. Lower the water level, clean the pool, add winterizing chemicals, and cover the pool to protect it from debris and harsh weather.
How To Use Pool Clarifier
One effective way to clear up cloudy pool water is to use a pool clarifier. This product works by causing small particles in the water to clump together, making it easier for your filter to catch them.
Here’s how to use a pool clarifier:
1. Skim, Brush, and Vacuum Your Pool
Before adding a pool clarifier, you should first remove any debris from your pool. Skim the water’s surface to remove leaves, bugs, and other debris, then brush the sides and bottom of your pool to loosen any dirt or algae. Finally, vacuum your pool to remove any remaining debris.
2. Test and Balance Your Water
The next step is to test your pool water and balance the chemicals. Cloudy water can be caused by imbalanced pH levels or too little sanitizer. Use a pool water test kit to measure the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels and adjust them as needed.
3. Shock Your Pool
If your pool water is still cloudy after balancing the chemicals, you may need to shock your pool. Shocking your pool means adding a hefty dose of sanitizer to kill any bacteria or algae causing the cloudiness. Follow the instructions on your shock treatment carefully and wait a few days before adding a pool clarifier.
4. Run Your Filter 24/7
Once you’ve added a pool clarifier, you should run your pool filter 24/7 to help the clarifier do its job. Make sure to backwash your filter regularly to remove any trapped particles.
5. Increase Your Pool Circulation
Increasing circulation can help clear up pool water cloudy with small particles by ensuring proper filtration. You can do this by turning on your pool’s jets or adding a pool circulation booster. Meanwhile, saltwater pools use a salt cell generator to convert salt into chlorine, which is then used to sanitize the pool.
6. Add Pool Water Clarifier
Finally, it’s time to add it. Follow the instructions on the bottle carefully and pour the recommended amount directly into your pool’s skimmer. Do not pour the clarifier directly into the pool, which can cause staining.
How To Use Pool Flocculant (Clears Cloudy Water In 24-48 Hours)
Pool flocculants, also known as floc, work by causing suspended particles in your pool water to clump together and sink to the bottom, forming a layer of debris that can be vacuumed out. Follow these steps to use pool flocculant effectively:
1. Balance Your pH
Before using pool flocculant, test your pool water to ensure the pH is between 7.2 and 7.6. Adjust the pH level if needed.
2. Add Pool Flocculant (Floc) Your Water
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to determine the proper dosage for your pool size. Pour the flocculant evenly around the perimeter of your pool.
3. Circulate Your Water
Turn on your pool pump and let it circulate the water for about two hours to distribute the flocculant evenly. Then, shut off the pump and allow the water to sit undisturbed for 12-24 hours.
4. Vacuum Water Out Of Your Pool
A pool water cloudy with debris or algae can be remedied with regular skimming, vacuuming, and the use of algaecide.
Once the particles have settled to the bottom, use a manual pool vacuum to remove the debris. Vacuum slowly and carefully to avoid stirring up the settled particles. Be prepared to remove a significant amount of water during this process.
5. Test And Balance Your Water
Test your pool water again and adjust the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels as necessary. You may need to add more water to your pool to replace the water removed during vacuuming.
Cloudy pool water can be a nuisance. Still, with the proper cleaning products and the correct technique, you can restore your pool’s clarity and enjoy a crystal-clear swimming experience.
