9 Common Pool Problems and How to Fix Them

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Having your own backyard pool can bring a whole host of benefits, and with more than 10 million Americans owning their own pool, it’s fair to say that many people in the country are reaping the rewards.

While there’s nothing quite like enjoying a dip in your personal paradise after a long day at work, pool problems can quickly spoil the fun.

In this article, the team here at Claffey Pools will outline nine of the most common pool problems you may encounter and how to fix them.

Cloudy pool water 

If you notice that your pool water has turned cloudy, it is likely to be the result of one of two things.

Firstly, it might suggest there is an issue with the pool filtration system. Pool filter problems can be easy to solve, so take some time to check whether yours has become blocked or clogged. This could be the cause of the cloudy water, so you could also install a screen over the water when your pool is not in use. This will reduce how much work your filter has to do and minimize the chance of the water becoming cloudy.

If you’ve ruled out pool filter problems, then the cause of the cloudy water may be its pH levels. Use some pH strips to check the water’s chemistry and adjust accordingly. A pool’s optimum pH level is between 7.2-7.6 and anything out of this range will need attention. At Claffey Pools, we stock a range of chemical rebalancing products that can help restore pH to a suitable level.  

Algae in the pool

If algae growth has occurred in your swimming pool, it is a sign that maintenance has been neglected. 

Algae can cause your pool’s pH levels to spiral and can act as a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. If you have an algae problem, you’ll likely need to ‘shock’ your pool, which involves adding a large amount of chlorine to remove it. We stock a range of shock treatments in our online retail store.

To prevent algae from returning, regular pool maintenance is required and our leading pool maintenance service can ensure your water chemistry is always in the best condition. 

Skin irritation after swimming 

Another sign there is a problem with your pool is if you’re experiencing burning or irritated skin after swimming. 

This can include discomfort to the eyes, throat, and ears and it usually indicates a pH imbalance. 

As mentioned above, a pH of between 7.2-7.6 is considered safe and your water chemistry will need to be adjusted if it falls out of this range. 

Pool stains 

If you spot stains on your pool’s floor or walls, this could be caused by a number of factors.

If the stains are brown, it suggests that the problem has to do with metals in the water supply. Brush away the stains and adjust the pH to keep metal levels down and prevent further discoloration.

If the stains are green, it might be due to algae. If you’ve already dealt with an algae problem then you can simply clean the leftover stain with a brush but if algae is present then you’ll need to shock the water. 

If you're worried about a pool problem, don't hesitate to contact our servicing team.

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Pool leaks

A swimming pool leak can be extremely detrimental to your pool, causing costly damage if not fixed swiftly. While a certain amount of water evaporation is normal, if you suspect a leak then you should inspect the pool to try and ascertain its source. 

A leak could be due to plumbing problems, damaged equipment, gaps between fixtures, and more. 

At Claffey Pools we employ a leak detection service that will be able to locate the cause of your leak and fix it accordingly. 

Pool cracks 

Much like leaks, cracks in your swimming pool’s structure can cause significant damage if not promptly repaired. These cracks can even develop into leaks which will create more problems.

If you spot a crack anywhere in your pool, call Claffey Pools for professional support. 

Scaling

While calcium is normal for a pool, too much of it can be a problem.

If you notice white, chalky deposits and a sandpaper-like texture have begun to build up in the pool, it is likely calcium scaling. As well as causing white flaky residue to appear in the pool water, too much calcium can also corrode your pool’s shell and pipes and damage equipment like your pool filter. 

A calcium remover will need to be used to get rid of calcium build-up, but to prevent it from recurring it is important to keep calcium at the appropriate level. This is between 200-400 ppm and we can supply you with products to maintain this level.       

Strong chlorine odor

If you notice a strong chlorine odor coming from your pool, then it is usually a sign that you don’t have enough of it in the pool. While this might sound counterintuitive, chlorine itself is odorless and only gains its smell when it turns into chloramines, which are formed when the chlorine comes into contact with nitrogen or ammonia – chemicals that are found in the human body.

The best way to counteract this is to shock your pool and get your chlorine levels back to their suitable level of between 1.0-3.0 ppm. 

Pool heater isn’t working

Pool heater problems can cause your pool water to become cold and unpleasant to swim in. Pool heaters may stop working for a number of reasons including leaks, damage, or just standard wear and tear. 

Take a look at the troubleshooting section of your heater’s manual to try and resolve the issue but consult a professional if you are still experiencing problems. 

At Claffey Pools, once we’ve built your dream pool, our work doesn’t end there. We can provide you with ongoing pool servicing and pool maintenance in Colleyville, Coppell, and Southlake, Texas, to ensure your personal paradise always remains in the best condition and can be enjoyed for years to come.