Owning a swimming pool is a luxury that comes with its fair share of responsibilities. While a pool can provide endless enjoyment, it can also develop common issues that, if left unchecked, can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common swimming pool problems homeowners face — and share practical tips on how to fix them quickly.

1. Cloudy Pool Water

Problem: Your pool water looks dull, hazy, or milky instead of crystal-clear.

Causes:

• Poor water filtration

• Imbalanced chemicals

• Dirt, debris, or algae build-up

How to Fix It:

• Check and clean your pool filter regularly.

• Test your pool water using a quality water testing kit and adjust pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels accordingly.

• Shock the pool if algae or bacteria are present.

Tip: In hot summers, pool water can become cloudy more quickly due to increased algae growth. Test your water more frequently during peak heat.

2. Algae Growth

Problem: Green, yellow, or black patches appearing on pool walls or floors.

Causes:

• Low chlorine levels

• Poor circulation

• Warm weather and direct sunlight

How to Fix It:

• Brush the affected areas to loosen algae.

• Shock the pool with a high dose of chlorine.

• Run the pump for 24 hours to circulate treatment chemicals.

• Use an algaecide as a preventative measure.

Local Note: Sunny climate creates a perfect environment for algae, so regular brushing and weekly shock treatments are essential.

3. Pool Pump Problems

Problem: Pump not turning on, making loud noises, or losing prime.

Causes:

• Clogged skimmer or pump basket

• Air leaks in the suction line

• Worn-out pump motor

How to Fix It:

• Clean out debris from baskets and filters.

• Check for visible leaks or cracked hoses.

• If the pump motor is damaged, contact a professional pool technician.

Pro Tip: Running your pump during off-peak electricity hours can save you money while keeping water circulating.

4. Stains on Pool Surfaces

Problem: Brown, green, or rust-colored stains appear on pool walls or floor.

Causes:

• Metal particles in water

• Organic matter like leaves sitting too long in the pool

How to Fix It:

• Identify the stain type (metal or organic).

• Use a stain remover suited for your pool surface.

• Keep the pool clean and free from debris to prevent future stains.

5. Leaks in the Pool

Problem: Unexplained drop in water level.

Causes:

• Cracks in pool walls or tiles

• Faulty plumbing connections

How to Fix It:

• Conduct a bucket test to confirm a leak.

• Inspect the pool structure for visible cracks.

• Call a leak detection specialist if the issue persists.

Keep Your Pool in Top Shape All Year

Preventing problems is always cheaper and easier than fixing them. Regular maintenance, proper chemical balancing, and routine inspections can keep your pool sparkling clean and ready for a swim — especially in hot summers.

If you’re dealing with a persistent swimming pool problem or just want professional maintenance, contact Sizabantu Pools today. We offer reliable swimming pool cleaning, repairs, and upgrades for homeowners in Pretoria and surrounding areas.

📞 Call us now to schedule your pool service and enjoy hassle-free swimming all year round!