How To Remove Pool Stains?

A stained pool is an irritating problem that many pool owners know all too well. Not only it is embarrassing, and it can easily ruin your entire backyard experience. Luckily getting rid of pool stains is simple when you know what you are dealing with, and that's what this article entails. Let’s start by looking at the most common causes:

Common causes of pool stains

Generally Swimming pool stains can be caused by:

1. Metals in the pool can accidentally be introduced into the pools from well water or as a result of the corrosion of copper pipes.
2. Mineral: Typically, the mineral stain is a residue that accumulates oil and dirt creating discolouration and stain.
3. Rust caused by corroded pool fixtures and misplaced metal objects left in the pool.
4. Organic material like leaves, dirt, oils, worms or algae.

Pool stain identification

The first step in removing the pool stain is figuring out what you're looking at since different types of pool stains require different removal tactics.  It also helps to know the type of stain so that you can take measures to avoid it happening again.

The best way to distinguish metal from organic stains is by colour. Here we have put together a quick guide to show you the stain colours and their possible sources:

Test the stain

Testing is really the only way to determine what the stain is. To test, sprinkle different granular compounds directly on the stain and brush vigorously to find out.

Is it Organic?

• Granular chlorine helps remove organic stains
• Apply a considerable amount of chlorine directly to the stain, and it will come off easily

Is it Metallic?

• Metal stains best react to ascorbic acid or granular Vitamin C
• Apply crushed Vitamin C tablets to the stain and see if it fades or lightens

Is it Rust?

• Rust stains react to dry acid or sodium bisulphate
• Brush the dry acid into the stain and see if it fades away

How to remove different type of pool stains

The good news is once you have figured out the type of stain that you are dealing with, it gets easier from there. Please note that the treatment does depend on the surface type. If the surface is vinyl or fibreglass or painted, then using any chlorines will potentially bleach the surface and cause irreversible damage. 

Remove Organic Pool Stains

Of all pool stains, this is the easiest to remove. With a bit of elbow grease and the following method, you should be able to get rid or organic stains fairly easily:

1. Test the water for pH and alkalinity balances. The pH should be between 7.4 and 7.6 and the alkalinity should be between 100 and 150 ppm.
2. Shock your pool by following the instructions on the product packaging. (Remember to do this in the evening).
3. Thoroughly brush all the stains and let the pool circulate for at least 8 hours.
4. Repeat the process until the stain disappears.

Remove Metal Pool Stains

Metal pool stains are more difficult to remove since they only respond to certain chemicals. You might want to take a water sample to your local pool shop to determine exactly what kind of metals are plaguing your pool. Your pool shop will be able to advise the specific chemical you need to remove metal stains.

1. Add the recommended chemical according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Scrub the stains and run your filter for at least 1 hour.
3. Repeat the process until the stain disappears.

Prevent pool stains

Your first goal should be to keep your pool clean and properly treated. The cleaner the pool water is, the less likely you will find a tenacious stain.  Check out our complete range of swimming pool and spa chemicals to make your pool sparkle. Here are a few more tips:

• Trim trees and bushes near or around your pool to prevent debris and foliage from finding their way in the water.
• Invest in an automatic pool cleaner to make the job easy and prevent stains from forming.
• Make sure that you are testing the pH of your pool’s water regularly when the pool is in use. Stains can occur when the chemical balance is off.

Remember if you have stubborn stains, it makes sense to reach out to a pool professional for prompt and effective stain removal.