Quick Answer

Cloudy pool water is almost always caused by imbalanced chemicals, poor filtration, or extra contaminants such as dust, sunscreen, or early-stage algae. To fix it, you should test and balance your water, clean or backwash your filter, brush the pool, and run your pump long enough to circulate the water several times. If your pool is still cloudy after 24–48 hours, you may need professional help.

Quick Fix Checklist

Do this when your pool turns cloudy:

• Test your water (free chlorine, pH, alkalinity)

• Balance your chemicals

• Shock the pool if needed

• Clean or backwash the filter

• Brush pool walls, steps, corners, and floor

• Run the pump continuously for 24 hours

What Causes Cloudy Pool Water?

1. Imbalanced Pool Chemistry

If your chlorine is low, the water can’t stay sanitized and contaminants build up. If pH or alkalinity levels are off, small particles can stay suspended in the water.

Ideal chemical ranges:

• Free Chlorine: 2–4 ppm

• pH: 7.4–7.6

• Total Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm

• Calcium Hardness: 200–400 ppm

2. Poor Filtration or Circulation

Your filter is what actually removes the tiny particles that make water look cloudy. Common problems include:

• Filter is dirty or clogged

• Pump isn’t running long enough

• Circulation is restricted or uneven

Most pools need 6–10 hours of daily filtration depending on size and weather.

3. Contaminants and Early Algae Growth

Cloudiness can come from:

• Heavy pool use

• Sunscreen, lotions, sweat, oils

• Dust, pollen, or storm debris

• Early algae that has not turned the water green yet

In these cases, a shock treatment and extended filtration may be needed.

How to Clear a Cloudy Pool (Step-by-Step)

1. Test and balance your water

2. Adjust pH and alkalinity first

3. Raise chlorine levels or shock the pool

4. Clean or backwash your filter

5. Brush the walls and floor

6. Run your pump continuously for 24 hours

7. Re-test after 12–24 hours

If it’s still cloudy after 48 hours, there may be a deeper issue.

How to Prevent Cloudy Pool Water

• Test your water weekly (more in summer)

• Keep your chemicals in the recommended ranges

• Run your pump long enough each day

• Clean or backwash your filter regularly

• Shock the pool after heavy use or storms

A little maintenance prevents most cloudy water issues.

When to Call a Pool Service Company

Contact a professional if:

• Water remains cloudy after proper treatment

• Test readings keep drifting or don’t make sense

• Filter pressure is abnormally high or low

• You suspect pump or filtration issues

Need Professional Help in Peoria, AZ?

If you’re in Peoria or the West Valley, Triton Pools can help restore your water clarity fast.

• 4.9-star rating with 600+ reviews

• Expert weekly service, trouble calls, clean-ups, and repairs

• Fast response times and reliable technicians

Request service anytime at Triton Pools — we’ll get your pool crystal clear again.

FAQ: Cloudy Pool Water

How long does it take to clear cloudy water?
Most pools clear in 24–48 hours once chemistry and filtration are corrected.

Is it safe to swim in cloudy water?
Generally, no — cloudy water usually means poor sanitation and low visibility.

Do I need to drain my pool?
Not usually. Most cloudy pools clear without draining when treated correctly.

Can a dirty filter cause cloudy water?
Yes — a clogged or dirty filter is one of the most common causes of cloudy water.