With the summer in full swing, it’s the perfect time to enjoy long days in your pool or swim spa. But what happens if you notice that the water starts looking murky? Below, we will discuss the causes of cloudy water in pools and spas and provide some tips on how to correct the issue so you can get back to enjoying the water in no time. Here’s what you need to know!
Top Things To Check If You Have Cloudy Pool or Spa Water
- Ensure that the filter is in the best working condition. A damaged filtration system is one of the most common causes of cloudy water. When your pool or spa’s filter isn’t working as it should, it can’t remove all the contaminants from the water, leading to a cloudy appearance. Therefore, you should check your filter regularly to ensure no build-up is causing clogging. It’s also a good idea to let your filter run long enough to keep the water from getting dirty or stagnant.
- The water is balanced. If the pH levels in your pool or spa are out of balance, it can lead to cloudy water. The ideal pH levels for pool and spa water are between 7.2 to 7.6. When the water is too acidic or alkaline, it can cause potential problems beyond appearance alone. You can test the pH levels yourself with a test kit or take a sample of your water to a local pool store to have it tested. Too much or too little chlorine can also contribute to the chemical imbalance of your pool or spa. The chlorine content levels should be at least 1ppm for pools and at least 3ppm for swim spas. If you need more information on which chemicals you should have at home, you can contact your local pool retailer for support.
- Ensure you’re trying to prevent the build-up of contaminants. For example, cloudy water in a pool or spa is often caused by a build-up of excess particles from swimmers. Sunscreens and oils are the usual substances left in pools or spas, but make-up, body oils, creams, etc., can also contribute to the build-up. To keep this from happening, it’s best to limit how many products swimmers have on before entering the pool. You can also install an outdoor shower near the entrance to make it more convenient for swimmers to rinse off before entering the pool. Another fix for this concern is using a pool clarifier. It’s a coagulant that gathers together small particles and substances. This way, it’s easier for the filter to capture and eliminate them.
- Set a regular cleaning routine: Environmental debris can also cause cloudy water. This includes leaves, twigs, and more. Cleaning your pool or spa regularly is a good way to ensure such contaminants don’t alter the state of the water. Scrubbing, vacuuming, and skimming are some of the methods you can use to clean your pool or spa. You can do this with a net or brush or hire a professional pool cleaning service. On top of that, you can install a high-quality cover for your pool or swim spa to keep it clean and protected when it’s not in use.
The Importance of Addressing Cloudy Pool Water
Addressing the issue of cloudy pool water when it first appears is important. This way, you’re actively preventing things like algae from building up or having water that won’t necessarily be the best for the health of your pool and those swimming in it.
Many factors can cause your pool or spa water to become cloudy, but the great news is there are also many ways to fix it. By following the tips we’ve outlined above, you can get your pool or spa back to its crystal-clear state in no time.
If you’d like more information on choosing the best swim spa for your home, you can download our free buyer’s guide today.