How to clear cloudy pool water
Updated:
Cloudy water usually comes from one of three things: not enough chlorine, high pH or alkalinity, or a filter that needs help. Balance the water, make sure sanitizer is adequate, and give the filter time.
Step by step
- Check sanitizer firstLow free chlorine is the most common cause. Bring FC into range for your CYA.
- Balance pH and alkalinityHigh pH or alkalinity clouds water and can start scaling. Bring pH to ~7.4 and alkalinity into range.
- Run the filter longerRun the pump 24 hours; clean or backwash the filter if pressure is high.
- Add a clarifier if neededIf balanced and still hazy, a clarifier clumps fine particles so the filter can catch them. Flocculant is different: it drops everything to the floor to be vacuumed to waste, never through the filter.
FAQ
Why is my pool cloudy after shocking?
Often dead algae and high pH. Keep filtering, brush, and bring pH to ~7.4; a clarifier speeds it up.
Is cloudy water safe to swim in?
It’s best to wait. Cloudy water hides hazards and often signals a sanitizer or balance problem.
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