No matter how well you care for your pool, unexpected issues can still pop up from time to time. Whether you’re seeing murky water, green streaks, or unusual chemical readings, staying on top of pool problems early can save you time, money, and frustration.
At Pools Out Back, we’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help Amarillo pool owners get things back on track quickly. Here’s your go-to guide for troubleshooting common pool issues, with easy pool maintenance tips to prevent future problems and keep your water sparkling clear.
Cloudy or Murky Water
The Problem:
Cloudy or milky pool water is one of the most common pool issues. It’s often caused by water chemical imbalance, an inefficient filtration system, or free-floating debris.
The Fix:
- Check your filter and make sure it’s running long enough each day—typically 8 to 12 hours.
- Test and balance chemicals. Imbalances in chlorine, pH, or alkalinity can all contribute to cloudy water.
- Shock the pool if necessary, especially after heavy use or a storm.
- Wondering how long it takes for pool chemicals to balance? Most chemical adjustments take 4 to 24 hours to take full effect, depending on circulation and the type of chemicals added. Retest your water after 24 hours for the most accurate reading.
Algae Growth
The Problem:
Green, yellow, or even black patches in your pool are a clear sign of algae. This can happen when chlorine levels drop, water circulation is poor, or after a few days of warm weather and high usage.
The Fix:
- Brush affected areas thoroughly to loosen algae from surfaces.
- Shock the pool with a high dose of chlorine to kill algae spores.
- Run the pump continuously for 24–48 hours, and clean or backwash the filter afterward.
- Algae pool solutions also include using algaecide as a preventive measure—especially during peak swim season. Regular chemical checks and circulation are key to avoiding future outbreaks.
Chemical Imbalances: pH, Alkalinity, Calcium, & Chlorine
The Problem:
When your chemical levels are out of range, you may notice irritation after swimming (like red eyes and dry skin) or pool issues like rough surfaces or corrosion. If any of these chemical levels are off, they can reduce the effectiveness of one another, particularly chlorine. In turn, your pool is more susceptible to algae and bacteria.
The Fix:
Here’s a quick cheat sheet to keep chemicals in range:
- pH: 7.2-7.6
- Alkalinity: 80-120 ppm (parts per million)
- Calcium Hardness: 200-400 ppm
- Chlorine: 1-3 ppm
Test your water on a weekly basis. If chemical levels are out of range, take the following steps:
- To adjust pH or alkalinity: Use baking soda to raise levels, or muriatic acid to lower them.
- To adjust calcium: Add calcium chloride to raise levels, or partially drain and refill the pool to lower calcium levels.
- To adjust chlorine: To raise chlorine, add chlorine tablets or shock the pool. If chlorine levels are too high, let the sun degrade the chlorine or dilute the water.
Remember, small, gradual adjustments are best. Overcorrecting or adjusting too much at once can throw everything off.
Debris & Clogged Filters
The Problem:
If your pool looks dull or dirty despite chemical balance, debris buildup may be the culprit. Leaves, grass, and dirt can clog your filter and overwhelm your sanitizer.
The Fix:
- Skim and vacuum your pool regularly.
- Clean the filter on a set schedule—every 4–6 weeks for most systems.
- Consider installing a pool cover when the pool is not in use to reduce debris and evaporation.
These easy pool maintenance tips can prevent bigger issues and keep your pool looking and feeling fresh.
How Often Should You Change Pool Water?
How often you should change your pool water differs greatly from person to person. The EPA recommends changing it every 3-7 years. If you keep up with regular pool maintenance, it could be even less. Speaking with experienced pool experts can help you determine if or when you need to change your pool water.
Need Help with Troubleshooting?
Pool ownership doesn’t have to be stressful, and you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Whether you’re dealing with algae and murky water, want to build a new inground pool, or just need guidance on pool maintenance tips and tricks, Pools Out Back is here to help.
Contact us today or stop by! Let’s keep your pool in top shape—so you can spend more time swimming and less time troubleshooting.
