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What to do when I have cloudy water in the pool?

What to do when I have cloudy water in the pool? Below we will quote you the list of all the possible causes that result in having cloudy water in the pool; and then we are going to detail each one of them with their respective answers to what to do in each case.

cloudy pool water
cloudy pool water

En Ok Pool Reform within pool water maintenance guide We want to inform you about the consequences of inclement weather, but we already told you that the most common thing is: cloudy water in the pool.

Pool with Cloudy Water

The proper state of the water is reflected in the pool water itself. That is to say, Crystal clear water is healthy because it has the ideal conditions for its use.

But, sometimes the pool water may have white or milky water, it is a symptom or indication that there is a turbidity problem in the pool.

What is cloudy water in the pool?

cloudy pool water
What is cloudy water in the pool?

First of all, we will answer the question of what is cloudy water in the pool: Cloudy water in the pool is nothing more than particles or impurities that are in suspension.

It should be mentioned that as Clarifying cloudy water is a very common concern.

But, in fact, very few people really know what it is like to encounter cloudy, whitish pool water.

In any case, as we will see throughout this post, when the pool water becomes cloudy There may be several reasons and varied solutions; For example: from something as simple as filtering for more hours or regulating the pH level, to a tedious change of sand in the filter.

Consequences Cloudy water in the pool

  1. On the one hand, all the factors involved in making the water in the pool cloudy make it pool remains dirty on the surface and bottom.
  2. Therefore, the water becomes cloudy, and as a direct consequence, they give us: dirt, dust, earth, stones, insects, leaves, organic matter...
  3. In this way, if the result of the temporary evil causes cloudy water in the pool, it will cause Chlorine reduces its concentration and the disinfection of the pool is reduced. Well, the acidity of rainwater will trigger a disturbance in the pH level.
  4. So, with the same decomposition of dirt and temperature it will be very likely that algae will develop, since the chemical levels of the water become unbalanced.
  5. Furthermore, the increase in water even It can cause the pool to overflow or the technical room, if it is buried, to flood.
  6. Lichens may appear on the tiles.
  7. In areas with nearby vegetation (grass) we may find worms in the water.

Recommendations prior to How to solve white pool water

In most cases, if you have cloudy water in the pool it is a symbol that there is an imbalance in the pH of the water.

Residues and impurities contaminate the water and cause it to change color or look dirty.

In this way, for safety we recommend that you When there is cloudy water in the pool or it is white: no one should bathe in said pool.

It is a warning that must be taken into account, since white pool water indicates that the water is contaminated and can affect the mucous membranes (mouth, nose and eyes), it can also affect the skin with rashes and itching.

After detecting the state of cloudy water in the pool, it will be essential that the pool be treated with special products and chemicals to disinfect it.

Once the pool is treated with chemicals, you must wait at least 24 hours. before bathing in the pool, with the filtration turned on without pause and, obviously, confirming right after that it is in good condition.


Why is the pool water whitish and what do I do?

Why is pool water whitish?

Below we will quote you the list of all the possible causes that result in having cloudy water in the pool; and then we are going to detail each one of them with their respective answers to what to do in each case.

1st cause of whitish pool: Unbalanced free chlorine

Cloudy Pool Solutions: Balance Free Chlorine Levels

1st most common factor in white pool water: Low level of free chlorine

The low level of free chlorine indicates that you have chloramine (combined chlorine) that clouds the water, smells more like chlorine and cannot disinfect your pool water by eliminating harmful germs and bacteria that cause algae and ammonia.

Ideal pool chlorine values

Ideal free chlorine value

  • What is he Free chlorine: chlorine concentration that operates in the disinfection of the pool.
  • Ideal value of free chlorine in the pool: between 0,5 and 2,0ppm
  • Free chlorine in warm areas

Ideal residual chlorine value

  • residual chlorine or also called combined chlorine
  • What is residual chlorine: it determines the concentration of chloramines in our pool, in other words, the part of the chlorine that no longer has a disinfectant effect. It is the result of subtracting free chlorine from total chlorine.
  • The ideal value of residual chlorine: and should never exceed 0,5 ppm (ppm= parts per million).

Ideal total chlorine value

  • total chlorine: total amount of chlorine in the pool. Ideal value of total chlorine: maximum 2,6mg/l.

How to measure chlorine with a DPD kit

pool chlorine and ph measurement tablets
Measure pool pH: essential for the treatment of pool water, therefore, we emphasize that in the pool world we could say that it is an obligation to have a: pH evaluator (whether manual or digital or perhaps automatic).

What are DPD meters in Pisces?

DPD Meters (N,N-diethyl-para-phenylenediamine) are tablets that allow us to calculate the pH level, free chlorine, combined chlorine and total chlorine of the pool water.

There are three types of tablets in DPD chlorine meters

  1. DPD1: to measure free chlorine.
  2. DPD3: to measure total chlorine.
  3. Phenol Red: to measure ph.

Steps to measure chlorine in the pool with DPD case

  1. Add the tablets to a sample of water collected from the poolPhenol red in the left cuvette and DPD1 in the right cuvette (this result corresponds to that of free chlorine).
  2. Stir until the tablets are completely dissolved.
  3. And compare the values ​​obtained with the colorimetric scales.
  4. Without emptying the right bucket, we add DPD 3. We shake the tablet until it is completely mixed and we compare the result with the colorimetric scale.
  5. Finally, the result of DPD1 + DPD3 gives us the value of Total Chlorine

Buy a case of tablets to measure chlorine and pH

Price of a case of tablets to measure chlorine and pH

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Video tutorial How to correctly analyze the free chlorine in the pool

How to correctly test pool free chlorine and pH

Shock treatment to increase chlorine whitish pool water

In the event that you have free chlorine 1 ppm or combined chlorine (CC) above 0,2 ppm, whether in a saltwater or non-saltwater pool, you must do shock chlorination immediately.

How to increase chlorine in white pool water = with shock chlorination

  • First, clean the walls and floor of the pool.
  • Secondly, clean the pool filter.
  • Next, remove all the accessories from the pool bowl.
  • Verify that the pH of the pool is between 7,2 and 7,4. If not, you must adjust it and filter the pool for at least 6 hours after adding the product.
  • Next, we consult the specific label of the product we have purchased to check the amount of shock chlorine adapted to our circumstances.
  • Approximately, the recommended dose of granulated shock chlorine is the following: 150/250 g per 50 m3 of water. 
  • Dilute the chlorine in a bucket and pour it directly into the pool
  • Finally, leave the filtration running until all the pool water has been recirculated through the filter at least once (approximately, it is usually 6 hours); although it is advisable to leave the filtration on for 12-24 hours after pouring product into the pool.

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2nd causes of cloudy pool water: Few hours of filtration

Cloudy pool water solution: Increase pool water recirculation hours

Cloudy water in the pool due to lack of filtration hours

Poor filtration/circulation will always result in a constant battle against turbidity, consequently, it is very common that one of the causes of cloudy water in pools is due to a lack of filtration hours.

Appropriate purification hours according to circumstance

We do not always have the same conditions, neither temperature, wind or number of bathers. AND debugging hours have to change and adapting to these changes.

It is one of the most common reasons for meeting the person on a good day. water from the pool whitish. The lack of debugging hours.

Situations that determine the pool filtering time

  • Water temperature / Meteorology.
  • Pool water volume.
  • Impurity retention capacity, this is indicated according to the microns of purification of the filter.
  • Pool pump power.
  • Frequency of pool use / Number of bathers

In conclusion, the greater the filtration, the less disinfection products we will require.

Therefore, with these assumptions You will have to increase the number of hours of purification, we will review the pH chlorine values, checking that they are correct and if not, we will act on the matter by adjusting them.

Very generic formula to determine filtering time

Very generic formula to determine filtering time: Water temperature / 2 = pool filtering hours

Average pool pump operation: 8 hours a day

Average operating rate of a pump between 6 and 8 hours.

In general, the average run rate of a pool pump should be at least 6 to 8 hours.

The reason for this value is the amount of time it usually takes for all the water to pass through the filtration system.

Less than 6 hours of filtration is scarce and unproductive

Hence, anything less than 6 or more than 8 hours indicates inefficient and ineffective filtration.

Check the pump's operating hours if you use a variable speed pump.

If you have switched to a variable speed energy saving pump, you may want to double check your circulation rate.


Table of contents of the page: Cloudy pool water

  1. 1st cause of whitish pool: Unbalanced free chlorine
  2.  2nd causes of cloudy pool water: Few hours of filtration
  3.  3rd cloudy pool causes: Dirty pool filter
  4. 4th cause of whitish pool water: Worn filter media
  5.  5th cause of milky pool water: Poorly sized purification equipment
  6. 6th cause: Cloudy pool water with low pH or cloudy pool water with high pH.
  7. 7th cause of white pool water: High alkalinity
  8. 8th cause of whitish pool: High calcium hardness
  9. 9th causes of cloudy pool water: Excess cyanuric acid in the pool
  10. 10th cloudy pool causes: Beginning of algae formation
  11. 11th cause of whitish pool water: Large load of bathers
  12. 12th cause of milky pool water: Inclement weather
  13.  13th cause of cloudy pool: Why is my pool water cloudy after opening a pool?
  14.  14th cause white pool water: pH and chlorine good but cloudy water
  15.  15th cause whitish pool Why is pool water still cloudy after shock treatment or adding an algaecide?
  16.  16th cause of cloudy pool water: Need to renew pool water
  17. 17th cloudy pool causes: Cloudy removable pool water
  18. 18º causes cloudy water in salt pool
  19. Illustrative video to know how to clean cloudy water in the pool

3rd cloudy pool causes: Dirty pool filter

Cloudy pool solution: Wash and rinse pool filter

Clean filter with appropriate granulometry

The state of the filter media must be clean and with the appropriate granulometry to retain all types of particles, that is, we must verify that there are no obstructions in the filter of any type of particles; Since, on the contrary, the filter will not retain the dirt that comes from the pool, on the contrary, it will return it to the glass which results in poor circulation and causes cloudy pool water..

Cloudy pool water needs a filter wash and rinse

If the filter is dirty it will not retain the dirt that comes from the pool, on the contrary, it will return dirt to the glass. In this way, it must be washed and rinsed so that it is in perfect condition.

How to clean pool filter: Carry out washing and rinsing

How to clean pool filter: Carry out washing and rinsing

4th cause of whitish pool water: Worn filter media

Solve cloudy pool water: Change pool filter sand

Sand treatment plant has lost filtering capacity

In filters with filter mediumflint sand, it is normal that over the years they lose all those grains with lower granulometry, which are precisely those that trap the smallest particles and prevent whitish water.

Check the condition of the filter media, it may be time to change the sand in the filter.

Pool sand useful life

To give us an idea, The useful life of pool sand is about 2 or 3 seasons. and it can really range from 1-3 years for a small filter, up to 5-6 years for a large filter.

Check pool sand status

Procedures to check the condition of the pool sand
  1. We open the sand treatment plant.
  2. We check if the sand is still loose, spongy and clean.
  3. Verify that the pool pressure gauge does not indicate a high pressure factor after washing and rinsing the pool filter (if so, it is necessary to change the sand).

Recommendation: If we doubt the state of the sand, it is best to change it. since it really is a very important factor for correct cleaning and the cost of the product is minimal.

Purification sand price

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Video how to change the sand in a pool purifier

Steps to change the sand in a pool purifier step by step

how to change the sand in a pool purifier

Recommended filter medium: pool filter glass

​The advantages of pool glass are:

  • We get a Superior filtering performance and higher water quality..
  • Better filtration capacity than silica sand.-
  • The irregular shape and edges reduce water turbidity:
  • Unlimited durability: Even by vinea.
  • water savings (between 25% and up to 80%)
  • 15% less weight when filling the filter.
  • We save between 40%-60% on chemicals.
  • Reduction of the presence of chloramines.
  • Concentrates very few heavy metals.
  • It does not let the lime compress.
  • You consume less electricity.
  • friction wear resistant.

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Filter glass price

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5th cause of milky pool water: Poorly sized purification equipment

Cloudy pool water solution: Filtration equipment with appropriate size for the pool

The pump and filter must be proportional to each other to perform correct filtration.

La pump and filter must be proportional to each other and to the size of the pool, so that the water filtration is carried out correctly.

A pump that is too powerful will cause water to pass through the filter at high speed and will not retain particles. Grooves will be created in the sand and the pool water will never be transparent.

We will have the same problem with filters that are too small for the pool. We will have to increase the hours of purification and do washing and rinsing continuously.

Finally, we recommend you visit how to choose a pool purifier: The pool purifier is one of the most essential equipment in a pool, so we recommend that you take note of our page about the criteria to choose it appropriately.

We suggest using variable speed pumps

variable speed pool pump
variable speed pool pump

Variable speed pump = suitable for pool requirements

It is highly advisable to use variable speed pumps, which make the water filtration as slow as possible in its normal filtration mode and allow us to increase the speed in the central hours of the day, when the number of bathers is greater or we have inclement weather.

The variable speed system of a swimming pool motor is based on a variation of the operation that is not continuous, therefore it adjusts the speed, flow and energy consumption according to the requirements of the pool and only turns on when it is strictly necessary.


6th cause: Cloudy pool water with low pH or cloudy pool water with high pH.

Cloudy pool water solution: Adjust pH `

Pool water pH values

Pool pH is one of the most significant parameters in pool maintenance.

Appropriate value for pool water pH: between 7.2 and 7.6 ideal neutral pH range.

  • In the case of a low pool pH, that is, when it is below 7,2, we speak of an acidic water pH. Therefore, in this case we will have a deterioration of pool surface coatings, corrosion of the metal parts of the pool, health problems for bathers (affected skin with dark spots, allergies in the eyes, throat and nose...)
  • Instead, When the pH of the pool exceeds 7,6, we will speak of a basic pH of the pool water; in which we can confront: cloudy water in the pool, green pool water, limescale formation in the pool, irritations and damage to the skin and eyes of bathers, etc.

Regulate the pH of the pool

Also, we provide you with tickets from our pool maintenance blog So you know how to amend the pH levels of the pool:

Avoid cloudy water in the pool with digital pH control

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7th cause of white pool water: High alkalinity

Solution for cloudy pool water: Lower total alkalinity

how to measure pool alkalinity

What is pool alkalinity

To begin, explain that the alkalinity is ability of water to neutralize acids, a measure of all alkaline substances dissolved in water (carbonates, bicarbonates and hydroxides), although borates, silicates, nitrates and phosphates may also be present.

Alkalinity acts as regulatory effect of pH changes.

So, if you do not preside with the appropriate values, you will not be able to have well-disinfected and transparent water in your pool.

Pool alkalinity value

Pool alkalinity recommended is between 125-150 ppm.

Monitor alkalinity to avoid cloudy pool water

High alkalinity affects

Next, we mention some of the effects that are produced when alkalinity is high.

  • Significant increase in pH.
  • Non-transparent, apparently cloudy water.
  • Irritation of the eyes, ears, nose and throat.
  • Formation of incrustations on walls and accessories.
  • Acceleration of wear and tear of pool materials.
  • Loss of effectiveness of the pool disinfectant.

Measurement to measure alkalinity: analytical strips.

To measure the total alkalinity of the water, you can use simple analytical strips (measurement of 4 or 7 parameters) that will allow you to find out its value in an easy and quick way. Likewise, you can also measure with a wide variety of digital meters or even photometers.

Pool alkalinity analytical strips price

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How to Reduce Pool Alkalinity

  1. First, we must turn off the pool pump and wait approximately one hour.
  2. Next, it is necessary to add (according to convenience) the necessary amount of pH reducer and distribute it to transform it into bicarbonate into carbon dioxide. NOTE: To reduce pool Alkalinity by 10 ppm, you need to distribute about 30 mL for each cubic meter of pool water (whether in liquid or solid format).
  3. Then, after an hour, we turn the pump on again.
  4. After about 24 hours, we will measure the alkalinity levels again.
  5. On the other hand, if we observe that the pool water alkalinity levels have not decreased in 2 or 3 days, we will repeat the process (sometimes it can be an expensive process).
  6. In addition, we must check the pH levels at all times, as they can drop.

Wreck alkalinity reducer

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Table of contents of the page: pool pH

  1. 1st cause of whitish pool: Unbalanced free chlorine
  2.  2nd causes of cloudy pool water: Few hours of filtration
  3.  3rd cloudy pool causes: Dirty pool filter
  4. 4th cause of whitish pool water: Worn filter media
  5.  5th cause of milky pool water: Poorly sized purification equipment
  6. 6th cause: Cloudy pool water with low pH or cloudy pool water with high pH.
  7. 7th cause of white pool water: High alkalinity
  8. 8th cause of whitish pool: High calcium hardness
  9. 9th causes of cloudy pool water: Excess cyanuric acid in the pool
  10. 10th cloudy pool causes: Beginning of algae formation
  11. 11th cause of whitish pool water: Large load of bathers
  12. 12th cause of milky pool water: Inclement weather
  13.  13th cause of cloudy pool: Why is my pool water cloudy after opening a pool?
  14.  14th cause white pool water: pH and chlorine good but cloudy water
  15.  15th cause whitish pool Why is pool water still cloudy after shock treatment or adding an algaecide?
  16.  16th cause of cloudy pool water: Need to renew pool water
  17. 17th cloudy pool causes: Cloudy removable pool water
  18. 18º causes cloudy water in salt pool
  19. Illustrative video to know how to clean cloudy water in the pool

8th cause of whitish pool: High calcium hardness

Cloudy pool water solution: Lower calcium hardness

What is pool water hardness?

The amount of calcium and magnesium present in water is called “hardness of water", that is, the hardness of water is the concentration of mineral compounds in the water, mainly magnesium and calcium, therefore the agglomeration of alkaline salts.

Whitish pool water with low ph and high calcium hardness

First of all, very high levels of calcium hardness in pool water will result in excess calcium, which cannot dissolve in the water and builds up in the pool.. This causes cloudy water that does not clear and calcium builds up inside the pool and sometimes the scale can clog the filter, causing poor filtration and dirty or cloudy water.

Pool water hardness value

Ideal pool water hardness value: between 150 and 250 ppm per million.

Types of very hard water: pool ph trend under cloudy water

When we fill the pool with well water or water with a basic pH, there are times when crystals precipitate and the water turns whitish.

These crystals are so small that They do not get trapped in the filter media and they return to the pool.

Treatment to be carried out with well water (results not guaranteed)
  • In that case, it stops the purifier all night and in the morning the pool cleaner runs with the selector valve in the emptying position to throw the water into the drain.
  • You may need to do the operation for a couple of days to get rid of the crystallites.
  • And don't forget to adjust the ph.
  • However, unfortunately, in many cases the solution is to replace the pool water.

Lower pool water hardness

Immediately afterwards, a portal dedicated exclusively to Lower pool water hardness: simple and easy methods to meet your goals and understand the values ​​so that it does not happen again.

Although, we already told you that in many circumstances, the only way to reduce calcium levels in the pool is to partially drain and refill the pool water.

Pool softener: Definitive solution to remove lime from the pool and eliminate the hardness of pool water.

pool softener

El pool softener It is a device that eliminates microorganisms through the generation of resonances with an ion exchange based on the use of resins.

Pool descaler: product against the hardness of pool water

Subsequently, the plan of the pool descaler: pool chemical product designed to remove limescale and ensure hygiene and water quality.

Likewise, it serves as a pool descaler for full pools, as a liner, as a tile...

Pool descaler price

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9th causes of cloudy pool water: Excess cyanuric acid in the pool

Fix cloudy pool water: Lower cyanuric acid in the pool

cyanuric acid swimming pools
lower cyanuric acid pool

What is cyanuric acid in the swimming pool?

Cyanuric acid from the pool (CYA, pool conditioner or pool stabilizer) is made up of chlorinated isocyanurics, which are a weak acid compound of stabilized chlorine (C3H3N3O3 ), of limited solubility that They stick together to stabilize the chlorine in the water.

High levels of cyanuric acid (CYA) can also cause cloudiness.

Cyanuric acid is an essential chemical to keep chlorine working as it should to clean and disinfect your pool, but at high values ​​it has many contraindications for both the pool and your health.

Excess CYA will significantly reduce free chlorine

If you use cyanuric acid frequently, make sure the CYA and free chlorine levels are balanced, as excess CYA will significantly reduce free chlorine. You can end up with very cloudy water when bacteria convert cyanuric acid into ammonia. Use this chlorine/CYA chart to determine the appropriate FC to CYA levels for your pool.

If the water is unbalanced and on the scale side, suspension of calcium carbonate particles is almost a guarantee. By balancing the pool water, the calcium carbonate will dissolve again and the cloudiness will disappear.

Lower isocyanuric acid in the pool

To begin with, We encourage you to visit our specific page lower cyanuric acid pool: consequences and solutions, know the why, solve quickly and eliminate cyanuric acid forever. Even though, below, we provide you with a very generic solution (you will find many more methods in the entry).

In cases of extremely high amounts of acid, empty the pool

Solution to lower pool cyanuric acid very high

Cyanuric acid parameters above 100 ppm

Drain and refill your pool if you have cyanuric levels above 100 ppm
  • Drain and refill your pool if it has cyanuric levels above 100 ppm.
  • If your cyanuric acid levels are too high, the easiest solution is to completely drain the pool and fill it with fresh water.
  • Use a submersible sump pump to drain your pool completely.
  • Take advantage of your empty pool and clean it well.
  • Use a calcium, lime and rust remover to clean calcium or scale rings.

Indicative cyanuric acid above 80 ppm

Dilute your pool water if levels are above 80 ppm
  • Dilute your pool water if levels are above 80 ppm.
  • The easiest way to reduce cyanuric acid levels in your pool is to simply dilute the water.
  • Partially drain your pool at the same percentage that you want to reduce your cyanuric levels.
  • Calculate the percentage by which you want to reduce the level of cyanuric acid and remove approximately the same percentage of water from your pool.
  • It is easier to add cyanuric acid to the pool than to remove it, so it is best to overcompensate and dilute the water more than you think you need.

10th cloudy pool causes: Beginning of algae formation

Remove cloudy pool water: eradicate green pool water

The formation of incipient algae gives rise to white pool water

The formation of incipient algae, which have not yet bloomed, will cause the pool water to become cloudy. This type of cloudiness can be distinguished from other causes by the slippery sensation on the pool surface.

To correct this problem, shock the pool with 30 ppm chlorine.

Could it be ammonia or algae starting?

In rare circumstances, especially during early summer when pools open after closing for the winter, your pool may have very cloudy water that is difficult to clean.

Chlorine and cyanuric acid levels drop to zero or near 0 ppm, there are very high CC levels, and there is a high demand for chlorine in the water, but FC levels will not rise easily, even after adding a lot of chlorine.

If you notice these signs in your pool, you have ammonia and you need to use a lot of chlorine to get rid of the ammonia in your pool. The early stages of algae cause pool water to appear cloudy and opaque.

Test to find out if there is a beginning of algae formation

To make sure it's not algae, perform an overnight chlorine loss test (OCLT), which is done by adding chlorine to the pool water at night when the sun goes down to avoid depleting the FC and taking the FC reading the next morning.

If CF levels drop more than 1 ppm overnight, the result is positive and you have algae starting, and the sooner you get rid of the algae, the better. Ammonia and algae are produced as a result of low FC levels, and the only way to keep them out of your pool is to maintain proper FC levels.


11th cause of whitish pool water: Large load of bathers

remove turbidity poolOverload organic substances in the pool

pool bathers

Cloudy pool water due to overload of bathers

A large influx of bathers at the same time can overload the pool with organic substances, causing turbidity.

Preventive measure for cloudy white pool water when many bathers are expected

An effective preventive measure when we know that we will have a large influx of bathers is a good shock treatment to clean the water and raise normal chlorine levels in anticipation of a large number of bathers.

Remember that, in case you are interested in knowing how the shock treatment is performed, we have explained it on this same page, in the first point where we explain the section on balancing free chlorine levels.


12th cause of milky pool water: Inclement weather

Eliminate pool turbidity: Counteracts the effects of the storm

rain consequences in the pool

What do we mean when inclement weather generates cloudy pool water?

On the one hand, it is worth mentioning that by inclement weather we mean: rain, wind, snow, hail, frost.

All of these are very important factors to consider, since they negatively affect our pool both at the water level and structure.

Why is my pool water cloudy after a rain?

Rainwater brings dirt, mud, dust and other contaminants that contain phosphate, which creates algae.

So, environmental factors, debris (particles) and mineral deposits: Dust, pollen and leaves can accumulate on your filter and impede the cleaning process.

Insects, bird droppings, and water runoff after a storm or rain also contribute to cloudy pool water.

Rainwater also brings minerals like nitrates, phosphates, silicates, and sulfates into your pool that can cloud your water.

With the presence of phosphate, the water will begin to become cloudy even before algae begins to grow. If you know a storm or downpour is coming, make sure there is enough chlorine to counteract the dilution that rainwater will bring and run the filter during the rain.

Avoid cloudy pool water due to bad weather

rain water pools

REMINDER: When there is extreme heat, rain or a lot of wind, it is necessary to check the pH levels the next day..

And, therefore, ensure that the filter fulfills its function properly to prevent the water from becoming contaminated.

Avoid the consequences of weather conditions with a pool cover

automatic above ground pool cover without box
pool covers

Although, another advice to beat the weather conditions and therefore not having to go through how to clarify cloudy water in the pool: pool covers (you will see your problems mostly reduced).


Table of contents of the page: Cloudy pool water

  1. 1st cause of whitish pool: Unbalanced free chlorine
  2.  2nd causes of cloudy pool water: Few hours of filtration
  3.  3rd cloudy pool causes: Dirty pool filter
  4. 4th cause of whitish pool water: Worn filter media
  5.  5th cause of milky pool water: Poorly sized purification equipment
  6. 6th cause: Cloudy pool water with low pH or cloudy pool water with high pH.
  7. 7th cause of white pool water: High alkalinity
  8. 8th cause of whitish pool: High calcium hardness
  9. 9th causes of cloudy pool water: Excess cyanuric acid in the pool
  10. 10th cloudy pool causes: Beginning of algae formation
  11. 11th cause of whitish pool water: Large load of bathers
  12. 12th cause of milky pool water: Inclement weather
  13.  13th cause of cloudy pool: Why is my pool water cloudy after opening a pool?
  14.  14th cause white pool water: pH and chlorine good but cloudy water
  15.  15th cause whitish pool Why is pool water still cloudy after shock treatment or adding an algaecide?
  16.  16th cause of cloudy pool water: Need to renew pool water
  17. 17th cloudy pool causes: Cloudy removable pool water
  18. 18º causes cloudy water in salt pool
  19. Illustrative video to know how to clean cloudy water in the pool

13th cause of cloudy pool: Why is my pool water cloudy after opening a pool?

Eliminate cloudy pool water: Fix Cloudy pool water after wintering

Recover white pool water after wintering

Depending on the attention and care taken when closing the pool for wintering, it is possible that when we open it we will find white pool water and/or algae; The fundamental cause being the imbalance of the chemical values ​​of the water.

Treatment of cloudy pool water after wintering

  • If your water is free of algae, all you need to do is test all the chemicals and adjust.
  • Starting with pH, ​​then chlorine, and then other chemicals after that.
  • If the water still looks cloudy after adjusting all the chemicals, you can try using a water clarifier to remove debris through the filter or use a pool flocculant and then vacuum to remove particles.

Water recovery after wintering in the pool

The water recovery procedure after wintering pool in reality It is only reestablishing the normal conditions of the pool.

Stages of water recovery after pool wintering

  1. The first step to recover water after wintering in the pool: perform a deep cleaning of the pool glass (walls and bottom) with a brush.
  2. Next, pass the automatic pool cleaner or if you don't have one, put the manual pool cleaner (if we see that there is a lot of dirt, put the pool selector valve key in the emptying position and this way the debris will not pass through the pool filter).
  3. Next, we proceed to wash and rinse the filter with a backwash.
  4. We check the pH levels (ideal value: 7,2-7,6) and adjust them if necessary, below we leave you the reminder pages: how to increase pool pH y how to lower pool pH.
  5. Finally, we will also validate the chlorine value which should range between 0,6 and 1 ppm.

Reestablish values ​​for water recovery after pool wintering

  1. On certain occasions, When the levels are very out of adjustment, it may be necessary that to restore the indicated values ​​of the PH of the pool water and the chlorine, it is required perform shock treatment.
  2. Perform shock chlorination to the pool: adding 10 g per m³ of water of the specific shock chlorine product (which you can find in different formats: granules, tablets, liquid...).
  3. Next, keep pool filtration running for at least one entire filter cycle (usually between 4-6 hours).
  4. Once the time has passed, we will check the pH again (ideal pH value: 7,2-7,6).
  5. To conclude, we will also validate the chlorine value which should range between 0,6 and 1 ppm.

14th cause white pool water: pH and chlorine good but cloudy water

Why is my pool cloudy when the chemicals are balanced? whitish pool water ph good

Cloudy pool water due to the presence of particles

milky pool water
milky pool water

Reason why my pool is cloudy when the chemicals are balanced

When all the pool chemicals are fine but the water is still cloudy, there is a good chance you have particles in the pool.

1st Solution for cloudy pool water due to the presence of particles: product to clarify the pool water

What is clarifier product to clarify pool water?

When it comes to cleaning a pool, your filter can handle most tasks without any problem, but there are some minor details that it is not capable of taking care of.

Clarifiers help the filter trap those small particles that are clouding the water, collecting them and putting them together to form larger particles (that your filter can trap).

If you have a pool whose water is cloudy and you decide to use a clarifier, run the filter 24 hours a day until the pool is clear. Additionally, since your filter is doing most of the work, you must help it by introducing those particles that it is not able to retain due to its small size.

Finally, we leave you a link to the page of the Pool clarifier: Discover the differences between the use of flocculant and pool clarifier, their formats, etc. Clarifiers help the filter trap those small particles that are clouding the water, collecting them and putting them together to form larger particles (that your filter can trap).

Pool clarifier price

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2nd solution for cloudy pool water due to the presence of particles: If the clarifier does not work, you can use the flocculant

flocculant in the pool
flocculant in the pool

When to use flocculant in the pool

Despite the great growing fame of pool flocculant due to its speed and simplicity of concept, We recommend that before using a product as aggressive as flocculating a pool, you try other ways to solve the problem.

For this reason, we provide you with a link where we tell you When to use flocculant in the pool: knows the extreme cases to resort to this drastic method thanks to previous checks.

How to flocculate a pool

Pool flocculation is the process in which, through the application of the flocculating chemical product, we manage to eradicate the problem of cloudy water in the pool in the most severe cases.

Alternatively, you can use pool floc (flocculant), also known as super floc, which is a chemical used to bring all the cloudy particles to the bottom of your pool forming a large cloud which you can then vacuum up using a manual. bomb.

Then if you click on how to flocculate a pool, we will explain how flocculant for pools works, how much flocculant to add, flocculant formats, etc.


15th cause whitish pool Why is pool water still cloudy after shock treatment or adding an algaecide?

clarify cloudy waterWhite pool water after chemical treatment

cloudy pool
cloudy pool

The white water in the pool begins to clear after an hour of treatment

In most cases, your pool water may still be cloudy, but the HR is good or high. Cloudy or milky water after a flush is normal, and the water should clear up in about an hour.

Just make sure the pump and filter are working properly.

If you add algaecide, keep in mind that some algaecides contain copper, which can actually cloud a pool.

What to do if white pool water persists after 24 hours of treatment

  1. If cloudiness persists 24 hours after flushing, you may have used a poor quality chlorine flush. In this case, you should take another free chlorine reading and flush again with liquid chlorine (sodium hypochlorite).
  2. You should also check that all chemicals, especially pH, total alkalinity, cyanuric acid, and calcium hardness, are within recommended levels.
  3. Finally, debris can cause continued cloudiness in the water even when the chlorine level is good.
  4. You can try using a water clarifier to send all the particles to the filter, or you can use pool floc to collect all the debris and then vacuum it up with a manual pool pump.

16th cause of cloudy pool water: Need to renew pool water

Clarify cloudy pool water: Change pool water

cloudy pool water
cloudy pool water

Pool water life

Finally, remember that Under no circumstances is it advisable to conserve pool water for more than 5 years.

At the level of simplicity, Pool water, if kept in perfect condition, can last us for many years.

Next, you can enter our page on how to empty the pool.

Circumstances in which to empty the pool

  1. The water is saturated.
  2. It has been more than 5 years since we filled the pool.
  3. If it needs to be repaired.
  4. The water is very dirty and there are plenty of rest
  5. there is too much because it has rained
  6. a very cold winter is coming
  7. area with a high water table

17th cloudy pool causes: Cloudy removable pool water

Cloudy pool solutions: treat cloudy removable pool water

cloudy water removable pool
cloudy water removable pool

Whitish water removable pool

To achieve a complete pool treatment, it will be essential to have a good filtration system, which, in addition to filtering and purifying the water, will carry out the important work of dissolving the products.

A good treatment of removable pools, the state of the water, corresponds to a regular verification of the chemical values ​​of the water and in turn to the determination of the different problematic causes of the pool water, especially in this case highlighting that Cloudy removable pool water and its solution are the same as for water maintenance as in any other pool.


18º causes cloudy water in salt pool

Cloudy pool solutions: Eliminate cloudy saline pool

cloudy water saline pool
cloudy water saline pool

Cloudy saline pool checks

1st cloudy saline pool check: pH value

  • The pH value is a measure of the acidity/alkalinity of the pool water; a reading of 7 means the water is neutral. Ideally, pool water should be slightly alkaline, with a pH between 7,2 and 7,6. If it is higher than this, the alkaline water quickly neutralizes the hypochlorous acid generated by the chlorinator. In acidic water with a pH below 7, hypochlorous acid reacts too quickly with contaminants and is consumed faster than the chlorinator can produce it.
  • Before addressing chlorine deficiency, it is important to increase or decrease the pH as necessary so that it is within the proper range. Lower the pH by adding muriatic acid or sodium disulfide to the water and increase it by adding sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) or sodium carbonate (sodium carbonate).

2nd cloudy saline pool check: water alkalinity

Check the total alkalinity of the pool water before increasing the pH. If it is close to the acceptable range of 80 to 120 ppm, use sodium carbonate. Otherwise, use baking soda, which has a stronger effect on alkalinity.

3rd cloudy saline pool check: optimal salt level

Measure the salt level The optimal salt level in the pool depends on the chlorinator, so read the manual to find out what it should be.

Salt is corrosive, so you shouldn't add too much, or the pool liner, circulation equipment, and your skin will suffer.

In most cases, the ideal level is 3000 parts per million, which is about one-tenth as salty as seawater.

When you add salt, stir it into the water and then let the water circulate for an hour before taking another measurement.

4th action cloudy saline pool: adjust saline chlorination

Adjust the Chlorinator If the pH and salt level are in the proper ranges, but the free chlorine level is below its ideal range of 1 to 3 ppm, you may need to increase the chlorinator output.

Most models have a super chlorination setting, which can slowly raise the chlorine level to 5 ppm or higher. This is not the same as shaking the water, but it can clear the water.

However, be careful: repeated use of this function shortens the life of the chlorinator.

5th action cloudy saline pool: clean the chlorinator plates

Clean the chlorinator plates: Chlorinators consist of a couple of electrolyte plates, which eventually become covered with scale, especially if the water has a high calcium content.

The scale reduces the electrical charge between the plates and the chlorinator outlet.

Clean the plates by removing them and washing them with clean water.

If the scale is heavy, you may need to soak the plates overnight in vinegar to dissolve them.

6th action cloudy saline pool: Increase chlorine cloudy water in salt pool

Eliminating salt pool cloudy water does not depend on the equipment itself

If you have a saltwater pool and the water is already cloudy, increasing the percentage setting on the chlorine generator equipment or the pump run time will have no effect.

How to increase chlorine in white pool water, cloudy saline pool = with shock chlorination

  • Firstly, You will have to turn off the salt chlorinator generator until the problem is solved.
  • Next, clean the walls and floor of the pool.
  • Clean the pool filter.
  • Next, remove all the accessories from the pool bowl.
  • Verify that the pH of the pool is between 7,2 and 7,4. If not, you must adjust it and filter the pool for at least 6 hours after adding the product.
  • Next, we consult the specific label of the product we have purchased to check the amount of shock chlorine adapted to our circumstances.
  • Approximately, the recommended dose of granulated shock chlorine is the following: 150/250 g per 50 m3 of water. 
  • Dilute the chlorine in a bucket and pour it directly into the pool
  • Finally, leave the filtration running until all the pool water has been recirculated through the filter at least once (approximately, it is usually 6 hours); although it is advisable to leave the filtration on for 12-24 hours after pouring product into the pool.
  • In summary, once the values ​​are adjusted you can turn on the salt electrolysis again

7th action cloudy saline pool: if the water is still cloudy

If the pool water is still cloudy, it is possible that some turbidity persists in the pool water after applying shock chlorination.

This is usually due to dead microorganisms, mineral deposits, and other inert contaminants.

You may be able to remove them by introducing a water clarifier, which coagulates these contaminants into clumps large enough to become trapped in the pool filter.

In severe cases, or when you don't have time to wait for a clarifier to work, use a flocculant. It creates larger clumps that fall to the bottom of the pool, which you can remove with your pool vacuum.

Buy shock chlorine

granulated rapid chlorine

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chlorine stabilizer for saline electrolysisRecommendation in saltwater pools

Characteristics Chlorine stabilizer for pool chlorinator

  • First of all, the chlorine stabilizer for pool chlorinator is actually a special product for salt pools.
  • The main function of the chlorine stabilizer for salt chlorination is to maintain the chlorine generated by saline electrolysis for longer.
  • In this way, we will extend the disinfection of the pool water.
  • Depending on whether the sun hits our pool directly or not, we will save the evaporation of the chlorine generated between 70-90%.

Saltwater pool chlorine stabilizer price

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Illustrative video to know how to clean cloudy water in the pool