How to Remove Stubborn Stains From My Pool Walls

Use a pool stain remover and scrub the affected areas gently with a soft brush.

What Causes Stubborn Stains on Pool Walls?

Stains on your pool walls are a common issue, and they can appear in various colors and shapes. Understanding what causes the stains is the first step toward effective removal. Here are the main causes of stubborn stains on pool walls:

• Algae growth: Algae is one of the leading causes of stains in pools. Algae can grow on pool walls, especially in areas with poor circulation or insufficient chlorine levels, leaving green, black, or yellow stains.

• Metal stains: Metals such as iron, copper, and manganese can cause stains when they oxidize in the pool. These metals may come from pool equipment, source water, or chemicals. Metal stains often appear as green, brown, or blue discolorations.

• Organic stains: Leaves, fruits, and other organic debris that fall into the pool can leave stains on the pool walls if not removed promptly. These stains are typically brown, yellow, or green in color.

• Calcium buildup: Hard water can lead to calcium buildup, causing white, chalky stains or scale along the waterline or other parts of the pool walls. By determining the cause of the stains, you can use the appropriate method for removal.

How to Remove Algae Stains From Pool Walls

Algae stains are some of the most common and persistent stains found on pool walls. These stains can be green, black, or yellow, depending on the type of algae. Algae thrive in areas with poor circulation and low chlorine levels. Here’s how to remove algae stains from your pool walls:

• Brush the pool walls: Use a pool brush to scrub the stained areas of the pool walls. This will help loosen the algae and prepare the surface for further treatment.

• Shock the pool: Add a large dose of pool shock (super-chlorinate the water) to kill the algae and bring the chlorine levels back up. Shocking the pool will help eliminate the algae spores from the water.

• Use an algaecide: After shocking, apply an algaecide to kill any remaining algae. Be sure to choose an algaecide that is suitable for your pool type and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

• Rebrush the pool walls: After the pool has been shocked and treated with algaecide, brush the walls again to remove any dead algae that may still be clinging to the surface.

• Vacuum the pool: Vacuum the pool to remove the dead algae particles and any remaining debris that may be contributing to cloudy water.

How to Remove Metal Stains From Pool Walls

Metal stains are common in pools with high levels of metals like iron, copper, or manganese. These stains can appear as brown, green, or blue discolorations. Metal stains are often caused by oxidizing metals in the pool, either from pool equipment or source water. Here’s how to remove metal stains from pool walls:

• Test for metals in the water: Use a pool water test kit to check for metals like copper, iron, or manganese. Knowing the type of metal involved will help you choose the right treatment.

• Use a metal sequestrant: A metal sequestrant binds to metals like copper and iron, preventing them from oxidizing and causing stains. Add a metal sequestrant to your pool water according to the product’s instructions.

• Apply a metal stain remover: After adding a sequestrant, use a metal-specific stain remover to treat the stains on the pool walls. Metal stain removers target the specific metals causing the stains, helping to break them down.

• Brush and vacuum the pool: After applying the metal stain remover, scrub the pool walls with a pool brush to remove the stains. Vacuum the pool to eliminate any remaining metal particles and debris.

• Prevent future metal buildup: To prevent future metal staining, use a metal sequestering agent regularly, and monitor your pool water for high metal levels.

How to Remove Organic Stains From Pool Walls

Organic stains are usually caused by debris such as leaves, twigs, fruit, and oils from swimmers. If left unchecked, these organic materials can cause stains on the pool walls. Organic stains are usually brown, yellow, or green in color. Here’s how to deal with them:

• Remove the debris: Use a pool skimmer to remove leaves, fruit, and other organic debris from the water. If the debris has already sunk to the bottom, use a vacuum to remove it.

• Use an enzyme-based cleaner: Apply an enzyme-based pool cleaner to the stained areas. These cleaners break down organic material like oils and leaves, making it easier to remove the stains. Follow the product instructions for proper usage.

• Shock the pool: After applying the enzyme cleaner, shock the pool to break down any remaining organic material in the water and restore chlorine levels.

• Brush the pool walls: Scrub the pool walls with a pool brush to remove the loosened organic stains. This will help lift the stains from the surface.

• Vacuum the pool: After brushing, vacuum the pool to remove debris and particles that have been lifted during the cleaning process.

How to Remove Calcium Buildup From Pool Walls

Calcium buildup (scale) is a common issue in pools with hard water. The calcium builds up over time and leaves behind white, chalky stains on the pool walls. To remove calcium buildup:

• Test for calcium hardness: Use a pool water test kit to check the calcium hardness levels. The ideal level is between 200-400 ppm. If the calcium hardness is too high, it can contribute to scaling on the pool walls.

• Use a scale remover: Purchase a pool scale remover that is designed to dissolve calcium deposits. Apply it to the affected areas and follow the instructions on the product.

• Scrub the pool walls: Use a pool brush to scrub the affected areas. This will help remove the calcium deposits and restore the appearance of the walls.

• Clean the filter: Calcium buildup can accumulate in the pool filter, so be sure to clean it regularly. A clean filter will help prevent calcium from building up again.

Preventing Stubborn Stains on Pool Walls

Preventing stains from forming in the first place is easier than removing them. Here are some tips to help you keep your pool walls clean and stain-free:

• Test and balance water chemistry: Regularly check your pool’s water chemistry, including pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. Maintaining balanced water will help prevent stains caused by metals, algae, and organic materials.

• Skim and vacuum regularly: Skim the surface daily to remove leaves and debris. Vacuum the pool floor regularly to prevent organic matter from sinking and causing stains.

• Brush the pool walls: Brush the walls of your pool weekly to prevent dirt and algae from accumulating.

• Use a pool cover: Cover the pool when it’s not in use to keep debris out and reduce the risk of stains forming.

• Add a stain prevention product: Some pool products are designed to prevent staining caused by metals. Adding a stain prevention product to your pool water can help minimize the risk of discoloration.

• Use a clarifier: If your pool water becomes cloudy, use a pool clarifier to help filter out small particles that can contribute to staining.

When Should I Call a Professional for Stubborn Pool Stains?

If your pool walls are still stained after trying these methods, or if the stains seem to persist despite regular cleaning, it may be time to call a professional. A pool professional can assess the issue and use specialized tools and products to remove tough stains. Additionally, they can help identify any underlying issues with your pool’s equipment or water chemistry that could be contributing to the problem. By following these tips, you can effectively remove stubborn stains from your pool walls and keep your pool looking clean and inviting all season long.