What are the common types of pool stains?
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The three main common types of stains are organic stains, metal and mineral stains, and scale stains.
Organic stains are caused by substances such as leaves, berries, algae, and animal matter, and range in color from green to a brownish-red. They could even be blue from berries. The easiest way to remove these stains is by cleaning and shocking your pool. If that isn’t enough, you can try applying granular chlorine directly to the stain.
A variety of different metals and minerals can cause stains on your pool surfaces, and each can leave a different color stain. You’ll want to use this color to identify which metal or mineral is causing the stain so you can find the appropriate stain remover.
Metal and Mineral Stains
| Color | Metal or Mineral | Cause |
|---|---|---|
|
Pink, Red, Black |
Manganese |
Well water (and water from some muncipalities) |
|
White crystals, Precipitate |
Calcium |
Red, Blue, Green, Black |
|
Red, Blue, Grey, Black |
Cobalt |
Fiberglass shells |
|
Blue, Green, Teal, Grey, Brown, Black, Purple |
Copper |
Algaecides, Ionizers, Pipe Corrosion, Fittings, Heaters |
|
Dark Red, Brown, Black, Grey |
Iron |
Wall water (or water from some municipalities), Pipe or pipe fitting corrosion |
Scale stains are white, brown, or grey and occur due to hard water, high chemical levels, and temperature fluctuations, often forming along the waterline. These stains should be removed as soon as you notice them to avoid permanent damage to your pool surface. This can be done by using a calcium scale remover and following the cleaner’s instructions.
How do I tell what kind of stain I have?
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Start by examining the color of the stain; it’s an easy way to determine the type of stain it is.
| Color | Type of Stain |
|---|---|
|
Pink, Red, Black |
Manganese |
|
White crystals, Precipitate |
Calcium |
|
Red, Blue, Grey, Black |
Cobalt |
|
Blue, Green, Teal, Grey, Brown, Black, Purple |
Copper |
|
Dark Red, Brown, Black, Grey |
Iron |
|
Green |
Organic (Algae) |
|
Brownish-Red, Blue |
Organic (Debris) |
|
White, Brown, Grey |
Scale |
How do I remove a stain?
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Start by testing your water and checking your balance, regardless of the type of stain that you have.
Organic Stains: Once your pool is balanced, super shock your pool with calcium hypochlorite (we recommend Rx Clear® Super Shock Swimming Pool Shock). Once the shock has circulated for a few hours, apply granular chlorine to the stain and scrub.
Metal/Mineral Stains: Once your pool is balanced, carefully follow the instructions of a stain remover specifically designed to remove stains caused by that particular metal or mineral.
Scale Stains: There are several methods for removing scale. The easiest is to purchase a calcium stain remover, which you can add to the water or apply to the area, depending on the instructions on the packet. For scale on tile, you can use a stain eraser that works on calcium or a pumice stone. You’ll use this to scrub the area and leave your tile looking polished.
Do I need to drain my pool to use stain remover?
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Many stain removers don’t require you to drain your pool. If your staining is more severe, or if the first round of stain removal hasn’t removed the stain, then you may need to drain your pool to gain easier access to the stain.
How do I prevent stains from forming?
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While some staining will always be unavoidable, there are ways to limit the likelihood of stains forming. The best way to avoid stains is through careful and regular maintenance of your pool. Keep your pool balanced and clean, and vacuum it regularly to maintain its cleanliness.
If you have prior issues with scale or metals, then consider buying a product that prevents stains from forming.
If you notice a stain forming, treat it immediately to prevent it from spreading or worsening.
Are pool stain removers safe for all pool surfaces?
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Pool stain removers may not be safe for all surfaces, so it’s essential to check for a product specifically formulated for your pool and the type of stain.