How to Fix Cloudy Pool Water
Cloudy pool water is more than just unappealing—it can be a sign of potential health risks and underlying maintenance issues. Whether you’re in the North Island or the South Island, restoring your pool’s clarity starts with understanding the causes of cloudiness and taking quick, corrective action. Here’s a practical guide to help you maintain a crystal-clear pool.
Step 1: Recognise the Stages of Cloudy Water
Cloudy pool water progresses through several stages, each requiring a different level of attention:
Dull Water – This early stage is when your pool may start to lose its sparkle. It’s subtle but indicates an emerging problem.
Hazy Water – You can see the pool bottom, though details are blurred.
Cloudy Water – The shallow end is clear enough to see the bottom, but the deep end is obscured.
Milky Water – The water takes on a milky appearance, making the deep end invisible.
Opaque Water – In this extreme stage, the bottom is entirely obscured.
Understanding where your pool water stands will help you take the appropriate actions to clear it up.
Step 2: Identify the Causes of Cloudy Pool Water
Several factors can lead to cloudy water. Here are the most common culprits:
Water Chemistry Imbalances
Incorrect chlorine or pH levels
High calcium hardness
Excessive metal content
Any of these chemical imbalances can make your pool water cloudy. Regularly testing your water will help you catch and correct these issues early.
Equipment Failure or Inefficiency
Equipment issues can also cause water cloudiness. Watch for:
Salt Chlorinator Wear: If your salt chlorinator isn’t producing enough chlorine, this could lead to cloudiness.
Pump Maintenance: Worn parts like injection tubes in pH or chlorine pumps may need replacing.
Filtration Issues: Broken or worn filters prevent proper water flow, reducing clarity.
Regular maintenance of these parts will help keep your pool water crystal clear.
Step 3: Test Your Pool Water Regularly
Routine water testing is the key to avoiding cloudy water. We recommend:
Testing pool water weekly, especially in warmer months when pools are in heavy use across New Zealand.
Visiting your local Poolwerx, where free* water testing can give you an expert analysis of your pool water.
*free with the purchase of pool or spa chemicals. Charges may apply at the discreption of each Poolwerx store.
Step 4: Maintain Your Pool Equipment
Preventative maintenance is crucial for keeping your pool clear, especially in areas where environmental factors differ, such as between the more temperate North Island and the often cooler, rainier South Island. Here are a few tips:
Inspect your filtration system regularly, checking for wear or broken parts that may affect performance.
Examine pumps and chlorinators for any signs of wear, replacing components as needed to ensure effective pool sanitation.
Step 5: Take Immediate Action if Your Pool Turns Cloudy
If your pool water has already become cloudy, it’s essential to act quickly. Here’s what to do:
Test the water immediately. Check for chemical imbalances and address them as soon as possible.
Fix equipment issues. Repair or replace faulty parts to prevent further water clarity issues.
By following these steps, you can maintain clear and healthy pool water, no matter where you are in New Zealand. For free pool water testing and expert advice, visit your nearest Poolwerx
We're Here To Help!
DIY where you can, trust Poolwerx where you can't. If you're unsure where to start after your pool has turned cloudy or green, contact your local Poolwerx. Our experienced Poolwerx teams can come poolside to check, treat and get the water back to clear in no-time.
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