subject: Swimmng Pool Supplies - Cloudy Pool Water Leads To Tears [print this page] The very look of a swimming pool can entice people to take a dip at all times of day and into the evening. If a pool is clear, blue and luxurious looking we will have no hesitation in jumping into the cool blue waters.
But if the water is cloudy or full of debris it is a big turn off even for the most dedicated of swimmers.
So it is important to ensure that a pool looks its best, both for visual appeal and for important hygiene reasons.
The causes of cloudy water are various, but are all mostly due to poor pool maintenance. It the owner does not look after the pool the results will be more than visible. That applies whether it is a domestic home pool or a luxury hotel.
Cloudiness of the water can be caused by among other things:
The water PH level being too high.
The water alkalinity level being too high.
The chlorine level being too low.
Cloudiness can also result from too many microscopic particles in the pool water, or failure to sufficiently clean and maintain the pool filtration system.Pool owners should also keep a check on the level of total dissolved solids in the water, along with:
The calcium hardness level.
The stabiliser level
The level of metals in the water - too high and it can result in discoloured water.
Uncontrolled algae growth can also result in serious discolouration, along with unhygienic water. Unchecked chemicals in the water can promote algae growth. For instance if the swimming pool is made of marbelite or plaster the pool water can begin to dissolve the surface if the water PH is too low and therefore acidic. This can create a roughness on the surface which is perfect for algae growth. A similar effect can occur on the grouting of tiled pools.
If the water PH is too high it becomes alkaline and the calcium in the water combines to form a scale similar to that which we often see in kitchen kettles. This calcification mostly occurs around the waterline and can trap dirt and debris, which will turn water cloudy and eventually black.
To prevent cloudiness regular testing and correcting of pool water chemicals levels is essential, not just for the look of the pool but for the good health of the swimmers. If pool water PH is unbalanced then the effects on the swimmer are immediately felt. Skin can become itchy, dry and we get a burning sensation in our nose and eyes.