Keeping your pool clean and safe takes time and care. Even with regular upkeep, problems can still happen. If they are not dealt with quickly, they can lead to bigger issues and higher costs. Here are five common pool problems and how to fix them.
Cloudy or Murky Pool Water
One of the most common issues is cloudy water. This is when the pool looks dull or hazy instead of clear and sparkling. It can be caused by poor filtration, not enough chlorine or dirt and debris building up.
The first step is to check your water using a test kit. Make sure the chlorine, pH and alkalinity levels are correct. Clean out the skimmer baskets and make sure the filter is working well.
If the water stays cloudy, it may be time to shock the pool. This means adding a strong dose of chlorine to kill bacteria and clear the water. Make sure you follow safety instructions when doing this.
Algae Growth on Pool Surfaces
Algae can grow quickly if the water is not balanced. It shows up as green, black or yellow patches on the walls or floor.
Algae make the pool slippery and unpleasant to swim in. They also use up chlorine, which can lead to more problems.
To remove algae, scrub the surfaces with a pool brush. Then shock the water and run the filter for a full day. You may need to repeat this if the algae come back. Keeping chlorine levels steady and cleaning the pool often will stop algae from taking hold in the first place.
Strong Chlorine Smell or Irritated Eyes
Many people think a strong chlorine smell means the pool is clean. In fact, it often means the opposite. The smell comes from a build-up of chloramines, which form when chlorine mixes with dirt, sweat or other waste in the water. These can also lead to red, itchy eyes and dry skin.
To fix this, you need to add more chlorine, not less. Shocking the pool will remove the chloramines and freshen the water. Also make sure swimmers shower before getting in, as this helps keep the water cleaner for longer.
Pump Not Working Properly
The pump moves water through the filter and keeps it clean. If it stops working, the water can go bad very quickly. Common signs of a problem include strange noises, weak water flow or the pump turning off by itself.
First, check the pump basket and remove any leaves or rubbish. Make sure the water level in the pool is not too low, as this can stop the pump from working. If the pump still does not run, it could be a motor or wiring issue. In that case, it may be best to call a pool expert.
Heater Not Heating the Water
If your pool has a heater, it can be very frustrating when it does not work. Sometimes the issue is simple, like the thermostat being set too low. Other times, it could be a blocked pipe or dirty filter slowing the water flow.
Check the heater manual for advice. Clean the filter and make sure water is moving through the system. If the heater still does not heat up, you may need to have it looked at by a trained professional.
At The Hot Tub Engineer, we provide expert swimming pool maintenance services throughout Maidstone, Kent and the surrounding areas. From routine cleaning and chemical balancing to repairs and seasonal care, we keep your pool clean, safe, and ready to enjoy all year round.
