Troubleshooting: Cloudy Water

Cloudy water results from various factors affecting its turbidity and clarity. See below most probably causes and possible solutions to treat them.

Dirty or misaligned filter

Filters are essential for water clarity, trapping dirt and contaminants. Clogs, wear, or incorrect installation can hinder their function. Regular maintenance and timely filter replacement are crucial for optimal performance and preventing cloudy water.

Solution: Clean / Adjust or Replace the filter

Inadequate or improper sanitising

Water sanitisers like chlorine or bromine are essential for eliminating harmful bacteria in water. Inadequate levels or improper application can lead to contaminant buildup and murky water. Regular testing and adjustment of sanitiser levels are crucial for maintaining a safe and clear swimming environment.

Solution: Test / Adjust sanitiser levels

Oils, lotions, organic matter, bio-film, and scaling

Water clarity can be severely affected by oils from skin care products, lotions, and sweat introduced by bathers, which create a surface film. Organic matter like leaves, dirt, and debris adds particles that cloud the water. Bio-film, a bacterial layer, and scaling from mineral deposits also contribute to water cloudiness.

Solution: Flush/Purge spa system

Old water

Stagnant water loses clarity without proper treatment or filtration. Regularly refreshing pool or spa water prevents contaminants and maintains a clean environment.

Solution: Drain, Clean and Refill the spa.

Improper levels of pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness

Imbalanced pH levels can reduce sanitiser effectiveness and cause cloudiness. Proper alkalinity stabilizes pH, preventing fluctuations that cloud water. Calcium hardness is also crucial; incorrect levels can cause scaling or corrosion, leading to cloudiness.

Solution: Test/Adjust pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness

The presence of metals

Metals like iron and copper can oxidise, creating visible particles and a murky appearance. These metals often come from plumbing systems, with improper water treatment worsening the issue.

Solution: Use a Metal Sequestrant

Recent high bather load can also lead to cloudy water

High usage of pools or spas introduces contaminants that can overwhelm filtration and sanitisation systems. It's essential to monitor water quality closely after such periods and restore clarity by increasing filtration time and adjusting chemical levels.

Solution: Shock the spa