Maintaining a clean and clear swimming pool is essential for a safe and enjoyable swimming experience. However, pool water problems can occur, and it’s important to know how to diagnose and solve them quickly. In this guide, we will discuss the most common pool water problems and provide solutions for each one.

The Most Common Water Problems that Pool Owners have to deal with

1. Cloudy Pool-water: A cloudy pool is one of the most common water problems that can be caused by a high level of particles or algae in the pool. Cloudy can be caused by a number of factors, including high levels of particles such as dirt and debris, or an overgrowth of algae. When particles or algae are present in large quantities, they can cause the pool-water to appear cloudy or discolored. 
   
   To solve this problem, you should shock the pool with chlorine and run the filter for an extended period of time, which will kill any algae present and help to clarify the pool. This will also help to remove particles from the pool-water. 
   
   Additionally, regularly testing and balancing the pH levels of the pool can also prevent this from happening in the future. 
   
   Another important step is to regularly test and balance the pH levels. High pH levels can cause the chlorine to be less effective, which can lead to an overgrowth of algae.

2. Green Water: Green water is caused by an abundance of algae in the pool. Algae can grow quickly when the pool is not properly sanitized, or when the pH levels are not balanced. To solve this problem, you should shock the pool with chlorine, which will kill the algae and help to clarify the pool. To solve this problem, you should shock the pool with chlorine and run the filter for an extended period of time. 
   
   To solve this problem, you should shock the pool with chlorine, which will kill the algae and help to clarify the pool. To solve this problem, you should shock the pool with chlorine and run the filter for an extended period of time. 
   
   Additionally, regularly adding algaecide and brushing the walls and floor of the pool can also prevent this from happening in the future. Algaecide is a chemical that specifically targets and kills algae, while brushing helps to remove algae that could stick on the wall and floor.

3. Low Chlorine Levels: When the chlorine levels are too low, bacteria and other contaminants can grow in the pool, which can be dangerous for swimmers. Low chlorine levels can be caused by a variety of factors such as high temperatures, high pH levels, and heavy use. 
   
   To solve this problem, you should test the chlorine levels regularly and add more as needed. Balancing the pH levels and running the filter for an extended period of time can also help to maintain the chlorine levels. 
   
   It’s important to note that chlorine levels should be maintained within the recommended level, too much or too little chlorine can cause irritation or other issues.

4. High pH Levels: High pH levels can be caused by a variety of factors such as high temperatures, high chlorine levels, and heavy use. To solve high pH problems in a swimming pool, you should test the pool-water to determine the pH level, adjust it by adding a pH reducer. 
   
   Monitor the pH level regularly and check for other chemical imbalances, brush the pool surfaces, check and maintain the pool equipment and if problems persist consult with a professional pool technician.

5. Black or Green Stains on the Pool Walls or Floor: Black or green stains on the pool walls or floor can be caused by high levels of metal such as copper or iron. High pH levels can cause these metals to be more active and thus cause staining. 
   
   These stains can be unsightly and difficult to remove, but with proper treatment, you can effectively remove them and prevent them from reoccurring. To solve this problem, you should add a metal sequestrant to the pool, which binds with and removes the metals. . Additionally, brushing the walls and floor of the pool can also help remove the stains. 
   
   Testing and balancing the pH levels can also prevent this from happening in the future. It is also important to check and maintain the pool equipment, in particular the pump, filter and heater, as they may be contributing to the staining.

6. Discoloration in a swimming pool can be caused by a variety of factors such as high levels of particles or algae, unbalanced pH levels, or high levels of minerals such as copper and iron, or lack of proper maintenance and cleaning, or by the presence of bacteria and other microorganisms. 
   
   Discoloration can also be caused by leaves, dirt, dust, and other debris that have not been removed from the pool. Additionally, if the pool is not properly balanced with chemicals, this can also lead to discoloration. 
   
   To solve discolored swimming pool, you should test the it to determine the cause, balance the pH levels, shock the pool by adding chlorine, and run the filter for an extended period of time. Additionally, regularly cleaning the pool, vacuuming the floor, brushing the walls, and skimming the surface, as well as maintaining the chemical balance in the pool, can help prevent discoloration from happening in the future. 

7. Overstabilization: Overstabilization is a problem that occurs in swimming pools when the Cyanuric acid (CYA) level is too high. This can happen when too much stabilizer is added to the pool or when the pool is not drained and refilled regularly. 
   
   Cyanuric Acid (CYA) is a chemical compound commonly used in swimming pools as a stabilizer for chlorine, which helps to protect it from sunlight and UV radiation, thus extend the effectiveness of the chlorine.
   
   Overstabilization can cause chlorine to become less effective, leading to issues such as cloudy water, algae growth, and difficulty in maintaining proper sanitizer levels. It can also cause damage to pool equipment, and can make the pool harder to balance chemically.
   
   To solve the overstabilization problem in swimming pools, you should test the Cyanuric acid (CYA) level in your pool, and if it is too high, you should partially drain and refill the pool with fresh water to lower the CYA level. 
   
   Alternatively, you can use a pool product specifically designed to lower CYA levels, and follow the instructions on the product. It is important to keep the CYA level in the recommended range of 30-50ppm to prevent overstabilization and maintain the effectiveness of chlorine.

In conclusion, maintaining a swimming pool requires constant attention and care to ensure that the pool is safe, clean and clear. A pool owner must be vigilant in testing regularly, balancing the pH levels, and keeping the chemical levels in check to avoid common pool problems like discoloration, high pH levels, and stains on the pool walls and floors. 

Additionally, the pool should be cleaned, vacuumed, brushed, and skimmed regularly, to keep the pool free of debris, leaves, and other contaminants. It is essential to keep an eye on the levels of chemicals and minerals in the pool and to consult with a professional pool technician if problems persist. Follow our link here in case you’re looking for a certified professional when it comes to pools!

However, should you be in the need to purchase Testing Kits, Chemical Balancers for your pool, Canada Pool Warehouse has you covered with our wide array of items to choose from, simply follow on any of the links provided!