(Newswire.net — October 24, 2019) — Own a pool? Or do you plan to build one? No doubt, having a pool – whether big or small – brings loads of fun. However, you should be prepared to deal with certain problems from time to time. Have you encountered any pool problems recently? Or maybe up until now, you are still trying to manage one.
Pool Problems
Let’s take a look at some of the most common swimming pool problems we encounter and the ways on how to manage and prevent them. Read on below to know what to expect when you are a residential pool owner.
Pool Turning Green
Nope, we are not talking about getting eco-friendly. Yup, we meant the algae. If your pool started to turn green, it just means algae have started to build up. Usually, this is due to neglect or if you didn’t cover your pool, meaning it has been a long time since proper cleaning and maintenance were done.
While algae are common, they can be easily prevented, and clearing up a green pool is quite easy. To manage or prevent having green water in the pool, you need to:
- Clean it regularly.
- Use certain chemicals to stop their growth.
- Apply chlorine to achieve a pH level of around 7.2 and 7.6.
A Dirty and Overused Filter
A dirty filter indicates an effectively working one, so this is not as problematic as it sounds. The solution? Easy, just clean the filter! A clogged filter cannot do its work as effectively as a clean one, so make sure you keep the dirt out of it regularly.
Cloudy Pool Water
Yes, it is not green! But hey, it is not clear, either! Cloudy pool water is not any better than a green one and may be due to the following:
- You have an open pool, which means that it has access to outside elements. If this is the case, you should consider placing a screen over it.
- Check your filter; it may be that it is already clogged and dirty and needs cleaning.
- Check the chemical levels of your pool. Too much or many chemicals may also contribute to the cloudiness, so remember not to overdo it when adding liquid chlorine to your pool.
Irritation After Swimming
Feel that burning sensation on your skin or in your eyes or throat after a swim? If yes, you may have an untreated pool to treat! Irritation after swimming is often due to pH imbalance, which means that the pool water is not within the normal levels – 7.2 to 7.6. Anything above or below can lead to irritation and redness.
Cracks
Whether in the foundation or structure of the pool, any crack is dangerous and can lead to serious accidents, not to mention it can lead to other issues as well. Make sure to identify the source and if necessary, consult a professional for advice on pool crack repairs.
Calcium Build-Up
First, let’s identify what type of calcium has built up: is it calcium carbonate or calcium silicate?
- Calcium carbonate – this causes white flaky scales and is much easier to remove. Simple scrubbing can remove carbonate build-up. Cleaning the pool tile with baking soda is also effective in keeping your pool clean.
- Calcium silicate – when there’s silicate build-up, white-grey scales appear. This could mean a foundational leak is present and that the build-up has been going on longer, therefore it is tougher. You can remove silicate by scrubbing with the use of calcium remover and pumice stone.
Questions
What is pool stabilizer?
Also called pool conditioner, pool stabilizer helps you to get the most out of chlorine sanitizers. One disadvantage of pool stabilizer, however, is that it contains cyanuric acid or s-triazinetrione. When this substance is combined with your pool’s chlorine, it can make the chlorine to react to sunlight less likely.
How do I test my pool stabilizer?
A turbidity test is used to test your pool stabilizer. Fill a vial with a black dot at its bottom part with a 25-ml pool water sample, then add an equal amount of cyanuric acid reagent. Once the reagent is added, the sample should turn cloudy in the presence of cyanuric acid.
Bottom Line
At the end of the day, preventing pool problems boils down to one thing: regular pool maintenance! Yes, it can be a lot of work, but it will also be worth it with just a few pool care suggestions! Just think about spending refreshing summer nights in your pool, and every little bit of work invested in maintaining your pool and shocking your pool will mean much more.