How Dirty Is Too Dirty? 6 Gross Pool Problems You Shouldn’t Ignore
No one dreams of diving into a swampy, cloudy, or mysteriously smelly pool, but sometimes, pool problems sneak up on you, turning your backyard oasis into a breeding ground for bacteria, bugs, and who-knows-what.
The key to a sparkling, swimmable pool is routine cleaning and smart pool maintenance, especially in the hot Texas sun. If you’re in the Round Rock area, this list is for you.
Here are 6 gross pool problems you should never ignore:
Green Water That Looks Like a Pond
If your pool water is green, it’s not just a color problem, it’s likely a full-blown algae invasion. Algae love warm, unbalanced water, and once they take hold, they multiply fast. It’s unsightly and slippery, making your pool unsafe.
Prevention tip: Regular brushing, balancing water chemistry, and proper circulation are your best defenses.
Foamy or Cloudy Water
Cloudy water might seem harmless, but it’s often a sign of poor filtration, high calcium levels, or bacteria buildup. Foam – can usually be a result of body oils, sunscreen, or leftover cleaning chemicals mixing poorly.
How to fix it: Schedule a professional routine cleaning and let the pros test and rebalance your pool chemistry.
Maintaining proper pool water chemistry is essential for creating a safe and enjoyable swimming experience. Pool water that’s improperly balanced can cause a range of problems, from equipment damage to serious health risks.
That “Public Bathroom” Smell
Chlorine has a distinct scent, but if your pool smells like a cheap hotel restroom? That’s not chlorine, it’s chloramines, the byproduct of chlorine mixing with sweat, urine, and other contaminants.
Time for a shock treatment: Literally. A pool shock can eliminate the buildup, but you’ll still need to address the root cause: lack of proper pool maintenance.
Bug Armageddon in the Skimmer
If your pool skimmer looks like it’s hosting a bug apocalypse, that’s a sign you’ve let routine cleaning slide. Stagnant water is a welcome mat for mosquitoes, gnats, and beetles.
Not Just Gross, it’s a health risk: mosquitoes can breed in a bottle cap’s worth of water. Imagine what they can do in a neglected pool.
Slippery Pool Floors and Walls
If the walls of your pool feel slimy, algae and biofilm are likely forming. That slime is not only unsanitary, it’s also dangerous, it can cause slips and falls.
How to fix it: Brush those surfaces regularly and ensure your pool chemistry is balanced to prevent growth.
Read: How Much Does Pool Maintenance Cost?
Stains That Won’t Budge
Rust-colored spots, black streaks, or mysterious discoloration are more than cosmetic issues. They’re often signs of metal buildup, organic matter decay, or mold. Improper cleaning can make it worse. Call in a professional to properly diagnose and treat the issue before it becomes permanent.
Don’t Let Your Pool Turn Into a Science Experiment
Keeping your pool clean doesn’t have to be a full-time job, but ignoring the signs of trouble can turn into one. With regular care, the right equipment, and balanced water chemistry, your pool can stay crystal clear all year long.
If you’re considering installing a pool or already own one, you might be wondering just how much time and effort it really takes to keep it in top shape. Read our blog on “How much maintenance is needed for a swimming pool.”
Need Help Keeping Things Clean? Call the Round Rock Pool Pros
Whether you’ve got cloudy water, algae blooms, or just don’t have time for all the brushing and testing, Round Rock Pool Pros have your back. We specialize in:
- Professional routine cleaning
- Balancing water chemistry
- Pool equipment inspections and repair
- Complete pool maintenance plans customized for your lifestyle
Call today to schedule your first visit – before that green water gets any greener.
