Troubleshooting Common Summer Pool Problems

As the summer sun warms, many of us are eager to open our backyard pools for the season. However, the heat can cause specific challenges in pool maintenance, mainly because they’re getting more use, and the heat and humidity can stir things up. At All Seasons Pools & Spas, Inc., we’re committed to helping you keep your pool clean and balanced, but you might need some help from our experts. Here’s our guide to troubleshooting common summer pool problems:​

1. Algae Blooms

You open the pool cover, only to find the water has turned a shady shade of green. Yep, it’s algae. Algae love warm, sunny weather and can quickly take over your pool if left unchecked. Here’s a pool care guide to get things back on track:

• Keep Chlorine Levels in Check – If your chlorine levels are too low, algae will thrive. Make sure you’re testing and adjusting regularly. Keep your chlorine at a steady 1-3 ppm (parts per million).
• Don’t Skip Circulation – Run your pool pump for at least 10 hours a day during summer. The more circulation, the harder it is for algae to grow.
• Brush and Vacuum – Algae hides in every nook and cranny. Give the walls and floor a good scrub weekly. Plus, vacuum up anything that’s settled at the bottom. Your pool filter will thank you. Our weekly pool maintenance can keep your pool clean and balanced without you having to lift a finger.

If you find yourself battling a full-on algae bloom, shock the pool with a large dose of chlorine, and if it’s still a problem, reach out to us. We’re always here to help with fixing pool issues!

2. Cloudy Water

Ever jump into the pool and feel like you’re swimming in a milkshake? Cloudy water can happen for a few reasons, including poor filtration or chemical imbalances. But clearing it up is easier than you think. Here’s how to fix this pool issue:

• Test Your Water Chemistry – First things first, test your pool’s pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels. Improper levels can lead to cloudy water. Aim for a pH between 7.2 and 7.6, alkalinity around 80-150 ppm, and chlorine at 1-3 ppm.
• Check Your Filters – A clogged or dirty filter can’t do its job, and that’s when cloudiness happens. Clean your filter regularly or backwash if needed.
• Cut Down on Contaminants – Swimmers bring in sunscreen, oils, and sweat, which can mess with water quality. Encourage everyone to shower before hopping in.

3. Equipment Malfunctions

You’re ready to swim, but your pool pump isn’t doing its thing. It’s a real bummer, but pool equipment problems are more common than you might think. Your pool pump is the heart of your pool system, so if it’s not working properly, your pool won’t be circulating or filtering correctly. If you notice that your pump isn’t functioning as it should, try these pool troubleshooting steps:

• Listen for Unusual Noises – If your pump is making strange sounds, it could mean there’s a blockage or an issue with the motor. Check for debris around the equipment and make sure everything’s clear.
• Check the Pressure Gauge – If the pressure gauge on your filter is reading too high or too low, it’s a sign that your filter is either clogged or malfunctioning. Clean or backwash the filter as necessary.
• Keep It Clean – Make sure nothing’s blocking the pump. Check for leaves, twigs, or even small toys that might have gotten in there.

4. Skin and Eye Irritation

If your eyes burn or your skin feels dry after a swim, it might be a sign that your pool’s chemical levels are out of balance. Typically, it’s either the pH or the chloramine levels that are to blame. Follow these pool troubleshooting tips:

• Balance the pH – Aim for a pH between 7.2 and 7.6. This will keep things comfortable for swimmers. Too high or too low, and you’ll feel the burn.
• Shock the Pool – If the chlorine levels aren’t properly maintaining the pool, you might have built-up chloramines (the nasty byproducts of chlorine). Shocking the pool helps eliminate them.
• Check the Filter – A clogged filter can’t remove debris or bacteria effectively, leading to skin irritation. Make sure your filtration system is up to snuff.

5. Low Water Levels

It happens. The sun’s been beating down, and your pool water level is lower than you’d like. Lower levels can mess with your skimmer and pump, so it’s time to top it up. Here’s what to do:

• Monitor the Levels – If your pool’s water level dips below the skimmer, your pump can’t function properly. Check the water level every week and add more as needed.
• Check for Leaks – If your water level is dropping faster than usual, there could be a leak somewhere. A professional pool leak detection service might be needed to pinpoint the issue.

6. Surface Stains and Scaling

Sometimes, those unsightly stains or rough patches on the pool’s surface can creep up on you. Usually, it’s caused by a buildup of calcium or metals in the water. You can fix it by:

• Checking Calcium Hardness – If your calcium levels are too high, scaling can form on your pool surfaces. Keep your calcium levels between 200-400 ppm to prevent this.
• Using Sequestrants – These chemicals bind to metals like iron or copper, stopping them from staining your pool walls.
• Cleaning Regularly – If you notice stains or scaling, clean it up quickly with the right pool cleaner or ask us about stain removal options.

Choose Professional Pool Care

While it’s great to know how to troubleshoot common summer pool problems on your own, the reality is that staying on top of everything can be a lot of work. At All Seasons Pools & Spas, Inc., our professional cleaning and maintenance services are designed to keep your pool in perfect shape all season long so you can focus on enjoying it instead of constantly fixing pool issues. If you’re looking for reliable pool care, contact us today!