Cloudy Water

Common Causes of Cloudy Pool Water

Cloudy pool water is usually the result of one or more of the following:

  • high calcium hardness level

  • high conditioner level

  • high pH

  • low pH

  • high total alkalinity

  • high level of total dissolved solids

  • low chlorine level

  • algae

  • large volume of microscopic particles in the pool water

  • filter/ filtration problems

How to Clear Up Cloudy Water

If the problem is conditioner: Partially drain and refill the swimming pool to bring the level down to the maximum of 80ppm or below.

If the problem is high pH: Add pH reducer to bring the pH within the range of 7.2 - 7.6

If the problem is low pH: Add pH increaser to raise pH to 7.2 - 7.6

If the problem is total alkalinity: Reduce the total alkalinity according to the directions at total alkalinity problems.

If the problem is total dissolved solids: Reduce the Total Dissolved Solids by partially draining and refilling the swimming pool to bring the level below 1,500ppm.

If the problem is the filter or filtration problems: Backwash, wash or clean filter or filter medium. Treat or replace sand, DE or cartridge. Or call in your local pool pro for advice or help.