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Common Pool Problems and How to Fix Them: A Guide for South African Pool Owners

Owning a swimming pool is one of life’s luxuries, especially in sunny South Africa. But with great enjoyment comes ongoing maintenance—and inevitably, a few common pool problems. From algae blooms and cloudy water to malfunctioning pumps, these issues can be frustrating if not addressed quickly and correctly. In this guide, Northern Pool Services shares practical solutions to typical pool maintenance challenges and when it’s best to call in the experts.

Algae Blooms: Green, Black or Mustard Trouble

Problem: Algae is one of the most common swimming pool issues, especially during warmer months. Green algae can take over your pool overnight if chlorine levels drop, while black or mustard algae are more stubborn and harder to treat.

DIY Fix:

Shock your pool with a high dose of chlorine.
Brush the pool walls and floor thoroughly to loosen algae.
Run the pump continuously for at least 24–48 hours.
Test and adjust your pH and chlorine levels.

Prevention Tip: Keep chlorine consistently between 1–3 ppm and brush the pool weekly.

Call a Pro If:

The algae returns repeatedly.
You’re dealing with black or mustard algae.
Your filtration system isn’t clearing the water.

Cloudy Pool Water: What’s in the Haze?

Problem: Cloudy or milky water can result from imbalanced chemicals, poor filtration, or environmental factors like dust and pollen.

DIY Fix:

Test and balance water chemistry, especially chlorine, pH, and alkalinity.
Clean the pool filter (cartridge, sand, or DE).
Skim out debris and vacuum the pool.
Use a pool clarifier to bind fine particles together for easier filtration.

Prevention Tip: Regularly clean your filter and maintain proper chemical levels.

Call a Pro If:

Cloudiness persists after adjusting chemicals.
Your pool filter is old or malfunctioning.
You’re unsure about the water chemistry.

Pool Pump Problems: Weak Circulation or Noisy Motor

Problem: Your pool pump is the heart of your filtration system. If it’s making loud noises, leaking, or not circulating water properly, your pool health suffers.

DIY Fix:

Check for and remove clogs in the skimmer basket or pump impeller.
Inspect for air leaks at fittings or the pump lid.
Make sure the pump basket is clean and the water level is high enough.

Prevention Tip: Clean baskets weekly and have a professional inspect your pump seasonally.

Call a Pro If:

Your pump won’t start or keeps tripping the breaker.
It’s leaking water or has excessive noise.
You suspect electrical issues.

pH Imbalance: Acidic or Alkaline Water

Problem: Incorrect pH levels can irritate eyes and skin, damage equipment, and reduce the effectiveness of sanitizers.

DIY Fix:

Use a reliable pool test kit.
Add pH increaser (soda ash) if pH is below 7.2.
Add pH decreaser (muriatic acid) if pH is above 7.8.

Prevention Tip: Test water at least twice a week and adjust as needed.

Call a Pro If:

Your water chemistry is consistently unstable.
You’re dealing with scale or corrosion.
You’re unsure how to safely handle pool chemicals.

Pool Stains: Unsightly Marks on Surfaces

Problem: Stains can come from metals, organic debris, or algae. They often show up as brown, green, or blue spots on pool surfaces.

DIY Fix:

Use a stain ID kit to determine the cause.
Apply appropriate stain remover based on metal or organic source.
Brush the area and run the pump.

Prevention Tip: Keep metals out of your water (e.g., from well water), and remove leaves and debris quickly.

Call a Pro If:

Stains return even after treatment.
You need professional acid washing or surface refinishing.

Don’t Let Pool Problems Drain Your Fun

Maintaining a crystal-clear pool doesn’t have to be complicated. With regular care and quick responses to issues, you can avoid major repairs and enjoy your pool year-round. But when things go beyond your expertise—or if time is tight—it’s smart to get professional help.

At Northern Suburbs Pool Services, we offer expert pool cleaning, maintenance, and repair across South Africa. From algae control to pump servicing and water balancing, our technicians ensure your pool stays swim-ready.

Need help with your pool? Contact Northern Pool Services today for professional pool care that makes a splash!

Common Pool Problems