Pools are the best accessory in your home. It adds to the beauty of an average-looking home. You can spend the entire summer in your home and host several pool parties. However, as fun and exciting as the idea of a pool can be, it is also an added responsibility and expense.
Pools need regular cleaning. From changing the water to adding every chemical in a balanced proportion, you need to perform multiple tasks. The worst part, if stains settle on the surface of a pool, removing them is difficult.
So, timely cleaning and maintenance are a must. Stains on a pool look unsightly and can affect the pH levels of your pool water. It’s important to note that stains caused by metals like copper and iron can also lower the pH level of pool water, so it’s crucial to address any staining issues promptly to maintain the chemical balance of the water. If you notice that the pH level in your pool is too low, you may be wondering how to raise the pH in a pool. Fortunately, there are many simple and effective methods to increase pH levels, such as adding soda ash or sodium carbonate to your pool water. If you notice any minor or major stains at the bottom of your pool, opt for the following ways to remove them.
Remove Organic Stains with Calcium Hypochlorite
Organic stains are easier to remove than any other type of stain. From fruits falling from trees near pools to decaying leaves, all these are organic stains. Since these stains are similar, you can remove them with the same method.
Start by testing your pool’s pH level and balance it if it’s not near 7. A balanced level helps chemicals provide a better result later on. After balancing the water’s pH, add calcium hypochlorite to shock the water in your pool.
In a few hours, the shock will circulate. Sometimes, you will need to add more granular chlorine if the stains are too old. Rub the chlorine thoroughly but don’t overdo the job. Try to use a soft tile grout scrubber or a brush. Pick something according to your pool. Keep on scrubbing till the stain faints or permanently disappears.
It is also known as the old serviceman’s trick and is a popular method for cleaning pool stains.
You should be careful while scrubbing or cleaning the pool. Excessive pressure could cause cracks or leakages, and you will need to call pool leak detection services to settle the matter. Remember, you want to clean your pool, not additional problems.
Removing Metal/Mineral Stains with Chemicals
You might see spots like rust on the bottom of your pool. If so, you should opt for something like Natural Chemistry Stain Free or A+ Stain Remover. Both items are made from ascorbic acid and are ideal pool stain removers.
Metal stains could form due to metal objects that are accidentally dropped into the pool. It could also be due to an internal issue from within the structure. For example, rebar tie wires closely placed to the surface come in contact with water. These wires start to decompose and stain the inner area.
It could become a massive issue in no time, so get these chemicals as soon as possible. In case you don’t find anything similar, there are other options.
These chemicals are granular vitamin C. Even if you can’t find these products in a nearby store, take a vitamin C tablet from your shelf and sprinkle its dust on the stained area. In a few minutes, the stains start to lighten up.
Manually Remove Stains Using Sandpaper
You don’t only have to get into your pool to take a swim. It’s also a great way to clean your pool. So, if the weather conditions aren’t too extreme, get into the pool and start cleaning it.
For this, you will need to arrange some sandpaper. It could be wet or dry. Buy it in bulk from the local hardware store and get started. Rub the stained area with sandpaper until the spot doesn’t lighten.
In case you don’t find sandpaper, there is always an alternate solution which is Scotch Brite. It works just like sandpaper and provides a cleaner and shinier surface. Sandpaper is a feasible option if you want your pool’s surface to remain smooth.
The internet is full of DIIY videos. You can watch a few before taking matters into your hands. However, when in doubt about your cleaning strategy, avail professional help. Opt for it in time.
Getting Rid of Rust
Rust is as irritating as other metal and organics stains. However, getting rid of it isn’t so difficult. Anyone can remove rust from their pools with a few easy steps. You could even use the same methods you used for removing other stains.
If you want to remove stains quickly, start filling up a sock with around half a cup of dry acid. Afterward, place the filled sock above the stain and press it. Also, add some weight on top to soak the stain completely.
Check to see if the stain remains or not. In case the stain isn’t lightening, continue with the soaking process. You could also use citric acid to make the process quicker. As soon as the stain is gone, you should remove the sock.
The method is satisfactory for removing rust stains from the bottom of the pool or the sides.
