Owning a pool brings fun, fitness, and relaxation—but it also requires attention to maintenance and problem-solving. If you’re dealing with cloudy water, unusual smells, or poor circulation, you’re not alone. Rhode Island pool owners often face the same set of recurring issues, especially during the summer months.
This guide outlines the most common pool problems and how to troubleshoot or fix them quickly before they affect your pool’s safety, water quality, or equipment.
Problem #1: Cloudy Pool Water
Symptoms: Water looks dull, milky, or hazy. Pool bottom is hard to see.
Causes:
- Imbalanced pH or alkalinity
- Poor filtration or circulation
- Dirty filter or clogged skimmer basket
- High calcium or organic debris levels
- Aftershock from recent pool treatment
How to Fix It:
- Test and balance water chemistry, especially chlorine, pH, and alkalinity
- Clean the filter and check pump flow
- Shock the pool with chlorine or non-chlorine oxidizer
- Use a pool clarifier to coagulate fine particles for easier filtration
Prevention Tip: Run the pump for 8–12 hours daily during swim season and test water weekly.
Problem #2: Algae Growth
Symptoms: Green, yellow, or black patches on pool surfaces; slippery walls; murky water
Causes:
- Low chlorine levels
- Poor circulation or neglected cleaning
- Hot, humid weather or heavy rainfall
- Unused pool covers trapping debris
How to Fix It:
- Brush all surfaces thoroughly to loosen algae
- Shock the pool heavily and follow up with an algaecide
- Run the pump continuously for 24–48 hours
- Clean the filter and vacuum the pool
Prevention Tip: Maintain a free chlorine level between 1.0–3.0 ppm and clean debris promptly.
Problem #3: Pool Water That Smells Like Chlorine
Symptoms: Strong chlorine odor, eye irritation, and swimmers complaining of smell or dryness
Causes:
- Chloramines (used-up chlorine) building up in the water
- Insufficient “free” chlorine to break down contaminants
How to Fix It:
- Shock the pool to eliminate chloramines
- Improve circulation to distribute sanitizer evenly
- Test and adjust pH to improve chlorine effectiveness
Prevention Tip: Regularly test free chlorine levels and shock weekly during heavy use periods.
Problem #4: Low or No Water Circulation
Symptoms: Water remains still, cloudy; surface debris not moving toward skimmers
Causes:
- Clogged skimmer or pump basket
- Dirty or damaged filter
- Air leak in the pump or plumbing
- Malfunctioning motor or impeller
How to Fix It:
- Turn off the pump and clean skimmer/pump baskets
- Inspect filter pressure and backwash or clean as needed
- Check for visible air bubbles in pump basket—may indicate a suction-side leak
- Inspect valves and plumbing for cracks or blockages
Prevention Tip: Clean baskets weekly and schedule annual professional inspections for your pump and filter system.
Problem #5: Pool Leaks
Symptoms: Water level dropping faster than normal evaporation rate; soggy grass near pool; air bubbles in return jets
Causes:
- Cracked skimmer, pipe, liner, or pool shell
- Loose fittings or connections
- Leaky pump or valve seals
How to Fix It:
- Use the bucket test to confirm if the drop is due to a leak or evaporation
- Inspect pool equipment for signs of dripping or moisture
- Check liner seams and corners for damage
- Call a pool professional to perform a pressure test or dye test for precise detection
Prevention Tip: Keep water chemistry balanced to prevent liner damage and monitor water levels regularly.
Problem #6: Staining or Discolored Pool Surfaces
Symptoms: Brown, green, or blue stains on the pool walls or floor
Causes:
- Metal deposits (iron, copper) from fill water or equipment
- Organic debris like leaves or algae
- Incorrect pH or high mineral content
How to Fix It:
- Identify the stain type using a stain test kit
- Use metal sequestrant for metal-based stains
- Brush and treat organic stains with ascorbic acid or pool shock
- Prevent future buildup by using a metal control product and pre-filtering fill water
Prevention Tip: Regularly remove debris and maintain proper chemical balance to avoid surface damage.
When to Call a Professional
Some pool issues can be solved with DIY maintenance, but others require a trained eye. Call a pool technician if:
- The water remains cloudy after multiple treatments
- Leaks are visible or suspected underground
- The pump won’t prime or maintain pressure
- Algae returns repeatedly despite proper care
- Electrical components stop working
Pools Plus Inc. provides expert pool services, equipment checks, and in-store water testing to help Rhode Island homeowners maintain safe, sparkling pools.
Preventative Maintenance Is the Best Solution
Most common pool problems stem from:
- Inconsistent water testing
- Irregular cleaning or filter neglect
- Delayed seasonal opening or closing
- Poor circulation or improper chemical use
By keeping up with routine tasks and responding to small issues early, you’ll avoid costly repairs and enjoy a longer swimming season.
Need help with weekly care or seasonal prep? Explore our full range of in-store services and get advice from pool pros you can trust.
Conclusion
Every pool owner eventually faces challenges—but the most common pool problems are easy to fix with the right knowledge and maintenance plan. Whether you’re battling algae or a worn-out filter, staying informed and proactive is your best defense.
For dependable help, visit Pools Plus Inc. or contact us to schedule pool service or maintenance today.
