Maintaining crystal-clear and hygienic water is every pool and spa owner’s goal. However, even with regular testing, you may occasionally encounter water quality issues.
Understanding the cause behind each problem — and knowing how to fix it — ensures your pool or spa remains safe, inviting, and enjoyable.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most common swimming pool and spa water problems and provide simple, effective solutions you can apply immediately.
1. Algae Growth
Nothing spoils the beauty of a swimming pool faster than a green, slimy appearance caused by algae.
Causes of Algae Growth
- Insufficient free chlorine levels.
- Excessive stabilizer (cyanuric acid), reducing chlorine’s effectiveness.
- Poor circulation or filtration.
Solution: Super Chlorination & Stabilizer Adjustment
- Shock the pool using a super chlorination treatment to rapidly increase chlorine levels and kill algae.
- Brush all pool surfaces thoroughly to remove algae clinging to walls and floors.
- Test and adjust stabilizer levels. If stabilizer (CYA) is too high (>100 ppm), partially drain and refill with fresh water.
- Maintain proper sanitizer levels to prevent recurrence.
Tip: Always perform shock treatment at dusk or nighttime for maximum effectiveness.
2. Cloudy Water
Cloudy or milky-looking water can make your pool or spa appear unclean and uninviting.
Causes of Cloudy Water
- Clogged or poorly functioning filtration system.
- Imbalanced total alkalinity or pH.
- Presence of fine particles not captured by the filter.
Solution: Filter Maintenance & Alkalinity Adjustment
- Inspect and clean the filtration system; perform a backwash if you have a sand or DE filter.
- Check total alkalinity levels. Adjust to the recommended range (80–120 ppm) using sodium bicarbonate if low or acid treatments if high.
- Shock the pool if organic contaminants are suspected.
- Consider using a water clarifier to coagulate fine particles for easier filtration.
Pro Tip: Clean or replace pool filters regularly according to manufacturer instructions to prevent recurring cloudiness.
3. Strong Chlorine Smell (Chlorine Odor)
Ironically, a strong chlorine smell doesn’t mean there’s too much chlorine — it actually means there’s not enough active chlorine.
Causes of Chlorine Odor
- High levels of chloramines (combined chlorine).
- Inadequate free chlorine levels.
Solution: Shock to Remove Chloramines
- Shock the pool to break down chloramines and restore sanitizer effectiveness.
- Maintain a consistent level of free chlorine (1–3 ppm) to prevent chloramine buildup.
- Ensure good pool circulation and proper filtration.
Note: Regular shocking is an essential part of weekly pool maintenance, especially after heavy use.
4. Skin Irritation
Skin irritation is one of the most common complaints among pool users and is usually preventable with proper water balance.
Causes of Skin Irritation
- Unbalanced pH (too high or too low).
- Excessive chloramines in the water.
Solution: Balance pH and Maintain Free Chlorine
- Test pH levels. The ideal range is 7.4–7.6 for swimmer comfort.
- Adjust pH accordingly:
- If pH is too high: Add muriatic acid or a pH decreaser.
- If pH is too low: Add sodium carbonate (pH increaser).
- Shock the pool if chloramine levels are high.
- Ensure free chlorine levels remain within the proper range.
Quick Tip: Always recheck water chemistry 24 hours after making adjustments to ensure stability.
Quick Reference Table: Problem & Solution Overview
| Water Problem | Main Cause | Recommended Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Algae Growth | Low chlorine, high stabilizer | Shock treatment + brush + adjust stabilizer |
| Cloudy Water | Filter issues, alkalinity imbalance | Backwash filter + adjust alkalinity |
| Chlorine Smell | High chloramines | Shock treatment + maintain free chlorine |
| Skin Irritation | pH imbalance, chloramines | Balance pH + shock if needed |
Essential Pool & Spa Water Maintenance Tips
- Test water at least 1–2 times per week during swimming season.
- Maintain proper sanitizer, pH, and alkalinity levels consistently.
- Shock the pool after heavy use, storms, or noticeable odor.
- Clean the filter system regularly for optimal water clarity.
Conclusion: Clear, Comfortable Water is Within Reach
With the right knowledge and proactive maintenance, solving swimming pool and spa water problems becomes easy.
Regular testing, correct diagnosis, and timely adjustments are key to creating a clean, safe, and relaxing aquatic environment for you and your family.
Act early, fix smartly, and enjoy sparkling water all season long!
