Is Your Pool Trying to Tell You Something? Signs Your Pool Needs Service!

Owning a pool is a fantastic way to enjoy the sun, cool off, and have some fun. But, like anything that gets a lot of use, pools need regular care to stay in great shape. Knowing when your pool needs professional help isn’t always obvious, but there are signs you can watch for. We want to help you keep your pool clean, safe, and beautiful. 

Here’s a list of common signs that your pool might need service so you can spot any issues early and get back to enjoying your water worry-free.

1. Cloudy or Murky Water

One of the first signs your pool needs attention is cloudy or murky water. Pool water should be clear enough to see straight to the bottom, no matter how deep it is. When the water gets cloudy, it can mean:

• Imbalanced Chemicals: If the chlorine, pH, or other chemicals aren’t at the right levels, it can make the water look cloudy. Imbalanced water can also be unsafe to swim in.

• Clogged Filter: The filter is responsible for keeping debris and dirt out of the water. If it’s dirty or clogged, it can’t do its job properly, causing water to look hazy.

Cloudy water can be a sign that your pool’s chemistry needs rebalancing or that the filter requires cleaning or repair. If you notice your water isn’t as clear as usual, it’s a good idea to schedule a service check.

2. Strong Chlorine Smell

People often think that a strong chlorine smell means the pool is “extra clean,” but that’s not actually true. A healthy pool doesn’t have a strong odor at all. If you notice a powerful chlorine smell, it usually means:

• Chemical Imbalance: When there’s not enough “free chlorine” (chlorine that’s ready to fight bacteria), combined with too many chloramines (which create the smell), it can produce that strong odor.

• Sanitation Issue: The smell might be an indicator that there are contaminants in the water that need extra cleaning attention.

This is a sign your pool might need a shock treatment, which adds a higher level of chlorine to sanitize the water. A pool service can ensure the chlorine and other chemicals are balanced correctly, so you don’t have to put up with that harsh smell.

3. Algae Growth

Algae are tiny plant-like organisms that thrive in water and can turn your pool green, yellow, or even black if they grow out of control. If you see algae in your pool, especially on the walls, steps, or floor, it’s a clear sign your pool needs service. Algae can grow for several reasons:

• Low Chlorine Levels: Chlorine helps kill algae. If the levels are too low, algae can grow quickly.

• Warm Water and Sunlight: Warm, sunny days create a perfect environment for algae growth. Without proper maintenance, algae can spread rapidly.

When algae are visible, it’s time for a professional cleaning and possibly a shock treatment to restore your pool’s water quality.

4. Staining or Discoloration on Pool Surfaces

If you notice strange colors or stains on the walls or floor of your pool, it could be a sign of a problem with the water’s chemical balance or a buildup of minerals and metals. Common stains include:

• Brown or Reddish Stains: These may come from metals in the water, such as iron.

• Green Stains: Often, green stains are caused by algae, especially if they’re slimy to the touch.

• White or Grayish Film: This can be from calcium deposits, which can build up over time if the water hardness is too high.

These stains can make your pool look old and neglected, even if you clean it regularly. A pool service professional can identify the cause and treat the stains to restore your pool’s appearance.

5. Sudden Drop in Water Level

Some water loss in a pool is normal due to evaporation, splashing, and backwashing. However, if you notice a sudden drop in your pool’s water level, it could mean you have a leak. Leaks can cause serious issues if they aren’t fixed, such as:

• Increased Water Bills: Constantly refilling the pool due to a leak can lead to higher water costs.

• Damage to Pool Structure: Leaks can cause damage to the pool’s foundation and surrounding areas.

If you find yourself refilling your pool more often than usual, or notice soggy areas around the pool, contact a pool professional to inspect for leaks.

6. Pool Pump or Filter Issues

Your pool’s pump and filter work together to keep the water clean and flowing. If you notice unusual sounds or poor water flow, these might be signs that your pool equipment needs servicing:

• Loud or Strange Noises: A pump that makes loud, grinding, or rattling sounds may need repairs.

• Weak Water Flow: If you notice water isn’t circulating properly, it could mean there’s an issue with the pump or filter.

Regular equipment checks can catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs. A professional can inspect your pool’s pump, filter, and other equipment to keep everything running smoothly.

7. Swimmer Complaints of Eye or Skin Irritation

If swimmers start to complain about red, itchy eyes or skin after being in your pool, it’s a sign the water may be unbalanced. Irritation can occur when:

• Chlorine Levels Are Too High or Low: Either extreme can cause discomfort for swimmers.

• Unbalanced pH Levels: A pH level that’s too high or too low can also lead to irritation.

Regular pool maintenance helps prevent these issues and keeps your water safe and comfortable for everyone.

8. Excessive Debris in the Pool

While some debris, like leaves or bugs, is normal, an excessive amount of debris can be a sign your pool’s filtration system isn’t working as it should. If you’re constantly skimming leaves, dirt, or other debris, it might mean:

• The Filter Needs Cleaning or Replacement: A clean filter helps capture debris, keeping your pool water clear.

• The Skimmer or Pump Basket Is Full: These need to be emptied regularly for optimal performance.

Consistent maintenance keeps debris under control, so you can enjoy a cleaner pool with less effort.

9. Difficulty Keeping the Pool Clean

If you’re finding it harder to keep your pool clean or notice you’re using more chemicals than usual, it could be a sign that your pool needs a more in-depth service. Over time, things like clogged filters, chemical buildup, and algae growth can make regular cleaning more challenging.

Let Us Help Keep Your Pool in Top Shape!

At Infinity Pool Solutions, we’re here to help keep your pool clean, safe, and fun to swim in. Regular service checks make a huge difference in preventing small problems from turning into big ones. Whether you’ve noticed cloudy water, algae growth, or any of the other signs above, our team of professionals is ready to help.

Give us a call today to schedule a maintenance check and enjoy a healthier, better-looking pool all season long. We’re here to make pool ownership easy and worry-free!