Top Signs Your Pool Needs a Chemical Adjustment (and What to Do About It)
A clean, clear pool isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about safety, comfort, and extending the life of your pool. When the water chemistry is off, small problems can quickly escalate into big ones. The good news? Catching the early warning signs can help you take quick action—and we’re here to help. Here’s what to look out for:
1. Cloudy or Murky Water: One of the most obvious signs your pool water needs attention is reduced clarity. Cloudiness often indicates unbalanced pH, high calcium levels, or poor filtration. Left unchecked, this can lead to algae blooms and bacteria growth.
What to do:
Test your pool’s pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels. If the problem persists, it may be time for a full water analysis and chemical balancing.
2. Strong Chlorine or Chemical Smell: Contrary to popular belief, a strong chlorine odor doesn’t mean your pool is clean—it often means it’s out of balance. That smell is usually caused by chloramines, a byproduct of chlorine mixing with contaminants like sweat and oils.
What to do:
Shock the pool to remove chloramines and restore proper chlorine levels. Regular maintenance can prevent buildup before it starts.
3. Skin and Eye Irritation: If swimmers are complaining of red eyes, itchy skin, or rashes, your pool chemistry may be to blame. Water that’s too acidic or too alkaline can be harsh on the body.
What to do:
Check and adjust the pool’s pH and chlorine levels. The ideal pH range is 7.2–7.6 for swimmer comfort and water quality.
4. Algae Growth: Visible green, yellow, or black patches in your pool mean algae is taking hold—a clear sign your chlorine level is too low or the water is imbalanced.
What to do:
Brush affected areas, shock the pool, and run your filter continuously until the water clears. Algaecides may also be necessary for more severe blooms.
5. Scaling or Corrosion on Pool Surfaces: White, crusty buildup on tiles or corrosion on metal fixtures often signals calcium hardness or pH imbalance. These conditions can damage pool surfaces and equipment over time.
What to do:
Adjust calcium and pH levels immediately. A professional inspection can help prevent costly repairs.
6. Changes in Water Color: A healthy pool should be clear and blue. If your water is turning green, yellow, or brown, it’s a chemical red flag. Metals, algae, or poor sanitizer levels could be the cause.
What to do:
Bring in a water sample for expert testing. Our team at Blue Water can help identify the issue and recommend a treatment plan.
Call in the Experts
At Blue Water Pool Chemical Co., we’ve been helping Arizona pool owners keep their water crystal-clear and perfectly balanced since 1973. Whether you need weekly service, seasonal help, or just a quick fix, our experienced team is here to make pool care simple.
Ready to get your water back in balance? Request a free quote for pool care today!