A person can learn a lot by looking at the color of the water in their swimming pool. The color can tell them if the water is safe or if it is not safe. People may wonder why the pool water turns different colors. There are many factors that can have an impact on pool water. This article explains some of these factors.
The type of dyes that have been used in the surface material of the pool. They at times can leak into the water changing the color. If there is an issue with the dye it is best to speak to the contractor and the supplier for solutions.
Trees and other things in nature can get into the pool and cause the water to change color. When this organic material mixes with the chlorine it can lead to discoloration.
The amount of sunlight the pool gets can have an impact on the water. The depth of the water can also change color. The shallow areas will have a lighter shade then the deeper areas.
If there is algae growing on the surface of the pool or around the pool, the water will turn green. There is algae killer to help prevent this. Regular cleaning should also prevent algae from growing.
Water often turns color due to the metal content. Water that contains hard metals change color when they are exposed to chlorine.
Pool Water Color and What it Means
Green Water
This is a sign that the water has a high level of copper. When copper is able to oxidize with the help of the chlorine the water will turn green. The shade of green can vary from light green to bright green. If the water is green a person should look at how the copper is getting into the water.
Brown Water
The brown color means the water contains iron. Iron rusts and turns the water this dark color.
Black Water
Black is from the presence of silver in the water. This happens when the silver comes in contact with the chlorine and oxidizes.
Purple Water
The water turns purple when magnesium or manganese is present.
Cloudy Water
If the water looks cloudy there is an issue with cleaning and there may be an issue with the filter. Give the filter a good clean and see if the water clears up. If there is still an issue after this contact a pool service and they can help give the pool a good cleaning.
Help for Discolored Pool Water
If the pool water is discolored a person is not going to want to swim it in. This is something that will need attention. If the discoloration is due to algae or pollution the water is not good to swim it. Do not use the pool until the water is cleared up.
There are some tips on how to clean the pool and get clear water.
Shock Treatment
Shocking the pool is the process of adding chlorine to kill bacteria and other impurities. Chlorine often oxidizes metal making it easy to remove this from the pool. This can be a good solution if the water is brown. After shocking the pool use a pool vac to remove the rust and run the filter before swimming in it.
Prevention
Developing a schedule to clean the pool with a chelating agent can help. This will help remove metal and prevent them from having a reaction with the chlorine. This will keep the water from turning colors.
Get Help
If the pool is discolored and a person is not sure what to do they can contact their pool service professional for help. They will test the water and find out what is causing the discoloration. They will also develop a regular cleaning plan to keep the water clear.
