Pool Care

Troubleshooting

Below are common problems you’ll find in pools and recommended solutions. 
Please note: In all cases, taking a water sample to your BioGuard® dealer for analysis is the best solution.

Algae 
Definition / Cause

A common "green" algae that can be free floating or wall-clinging. Ranges in severity from patches on walls and bottoms to entire pools. Can clog filters and create surface damage if left unchecked.

Solution
  • Banish®: Kills all types of swimming pool algae
Black Algae 
Definition / Cause

Forms in cracks and crevices on pool surfaces, especially plaster finishes. Known for protective coatings that make it impervious to normal chlorine levels.

Solution
Chlorine Residual 
Description / Cause

The most common cause of increased chlorine demand is a high level of contaminants.

Solution
Cloudy Water 
Definition / Cause

Hazy, murky appearance. Caused by poor filtration, inadequate circulation, water balance, low sanitizer levels and/or lack of routine oxidation.

Solution
Foam 
Definition / Cause

Foam is caused by elevated levels of algicide or a foaming algicide in pools with jetted returns,  attached spas or water features.  Foaming can also be caused by a foreign contaminant such as soap or oil entering the pool.  Foam should dissipate over time, but the use of AntiFoam will help clear the foam much more rapidly.

Solution
  • Anti-Foam: Eliminates foam quickly
  • To prevent foam from occurring due to high algicide levels, skip your next scheduled addition of Back Up® or switch to non-foaming Algae All 60®
Scale 
Definiton / Cause

Scale formation is caused by high calcium hardness.

Solution
  • Scale Inhibitor: Eliminates scale discoloration. Helps prevent scale from forming on pool surfaces and damaging the equipment
Staining 
Definition / Cause

Discoloration of pool equipment and surfaces caused by contamination, sunlight and metals in pool water.

Solution