Cloudy Swimming Pool Water: What you Need to Know About Water Clarity

Many of us don’t think about the quality of our pool water until it becomes cloudy. When that happens, we look for a solution to the problem that is often avoidable with proper maintenance of your swimming pool, spa, or hot tub.

Before I dive in any further, you need to know what water clarity is. Water clarification is defined as the removal of suspended particulate matter from swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs. There are three reasons why water clarity is important.

1. Disease prevention: Cloudy water often contains viruses and bacteria, which cause pinkeye, earaches, and flu-like symptoms. Giardia and E. coli (two of the most common bacteria) can cause diarrhea and, in some cases, even death.

2. Appearance: Cloudy, discolored, and unsightly water makes swimming objectionable for many reasons. Would you want to swim in murky water?

3. Swimming safety: Accidents are likely to occur when swimmers entering the pool cannot see those already swimming. Worse yet, if someone is in trouble underwater and can’t be seen because the water is cloudy, the risk of drowning increases.

As a pool or spa owner, you are probably no stranger to water clarity issues. After all, it’s only natural that the pool/spa water will eventually become cloudy. Oftentimes, this cloudiness is caused by a lack of water sanitizers, such as chlorine. If chlorine isn’t the problem, then the issue could be suspended particulate matter, such as:

• Contamination from swimmers or bathers
• Silt
• Dirt
• Algae
• Organic matter
• Bacteria and protozoa
• Minerals and metals
• Lotions and suntan oils

Water clarity issues are handled through a combination of filtration and chemical treatment. Filters clarify water by removing particulate matter (such as dirt particles, skin flakes, and algae) suspended in the water. Most particulate matter ranges in size from microns, and when it builds up, the pool water becomes cloudy. The pool or spa filter you need depends solely on the type of pool you currently own. You also need to take a few other things into consideration, such as the types of problems you will need the filter to fix.

Does your pool suffer from high levels of bacteria? Then a Bacteria Pool Water Test will be best for you. Are you unsure about the water quality in your pool, spa, or hot tub? Then the Pool Water Check Meter (pictured above) is the perfect choice. This water-testing meter checks the water quality in your pool and spa and includes a scanner and 1 bottle of test strips for your convenience.

Regardless of the type of filter you use, it must be in proper working condition to ensure sparkling, clean water. If the filter wears out, it will lose its ability to effectively capture small particles. To maximize your filter’s effectiveness, regularly clean and replace the filter according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

If you are planning on going for a swim at a public swimming pool, keep in mind that most state health departments require that the main drain be visible from the pool deck at all times. If it is not clearly visible, do not get in.

Enjoy the spring and summer months, you’ve earned it. Keeping a watchful eye on maintenance and the water quality in your pool, spa, or hot tub will benefit you in the long term. We’re always here to help and assist with any of your pool/spa filter needs. If you have any questions, concerns, or need friendly advice, leave a comment, and our in-house filter experts will be glad to help you out.