There could be several reasons your pool water isn’t clear enough to see the floor. Cloudy pool water, often referred to as milky water, can result from imbalanced chlorine levels, out-of-balance pH and alkalinity, high calcium hardness (CH) levels, malfunctioning pool filters, debris, young algae, or ammonia.
We will elaborate on the effects of algae and ammonia in swimming pools, as there is a tight connection between the usual daily habits swimmers do and cloudy pool water. If you prefer a comprehensive approach to pool maintenance, you can always rely on commercial pool cleaning services.
Who’s the Culprit? Young Algae or Ammonia?
In rare situations, particularly during early summer, when uncovering pools after winter, you may notice your pool has gotten pretty cloudy, making it impossible to see inside. Cloudy pool water is tricky to deal with and is mainly caused by free chlorine (FC) levels and cyanuric acid levels dropping to approximately zero ppm (part per million).
On the other hand, high combined chlorine (CC) levels mean your pool water is deprived of chlorine. If you observe any of these readings, you might be dealing with a case of ammonia in your swimming pool. How to get rid of it? Saturate your swimming pool with chlorine.
Early stages of algae, also known as young algae, can also contribute to the milky pool water that looks and feels off-putting. To eliminate algae formation from the pool, perform an OCLT (overnight chlorine-loss test). Add chlorine to the pool water in the evening, after the sun has set. If the FC levels change for more than 1 ppm during the test, it indicates algae is forming in your pool.
React immediately because young algae are easier to halter than fully-grown algae.
Other Reasons Your Pool Is Unattractively Cloudy
In addition to algae and ammonia, improperly balanced pool chemicals can also make pool water cloudy.
- Too little or too much chlorine;
- Out-of-balance pH, total alkalinity (TA), CF, or stabilizers;
- Malfunctioning pool filters;
- Environmental causes like mineral deposits, debris, pollen, rain, bird droppings, run-off water, etc.
Pool Chemistry is Very Important
Don’t do wholesome pool maintenance without inspecting the pool’s chemistry. Using inappropriate chemicals or adding the wrong amounts can harm the pool’s chemistry. Any of these mishaps can cloud your pool and boost the chances of algae formation.
Find Certified Pool Operators at Weber Pools
At Weber Pools, we do everything to ensure your pool is clean and safe for use all year round. Our exceptional commercial pool cleaning services and residential pool services are what our esteemed clients appreciate the most.
We also provide repair and remodeling services, making us your all-around pool service company. You can hire a professional at Weber Pools in Dallas, Frisco, Dallas-Ft. Worth, Southlake, Grapevine, Plano, Colleyville, Coppell, Keller, Hurst, Trophy Club, Euless, Valley Ranch, Bedford, Irving, Argyle, North Richland Hills, and Castle Hills!
Want to learn more about us and our services? Let’s connect!