Common Pool Problems in Indianapolis and How to Fix Them

Every Pool Has Its Challenges

Owning a pool is a great way to enjoy summer in Indianapolis, but like any major home feature, it requires regular maintenance to prevent problems. From cloudy water to leaks and malfunctioning equipment, every pool owner will eventually face issues that need attention. The good news? Most pool problems have simple solutions if addressed early.

In this guide, the Perma Pools team is going to cover some of the most common pool issues Indianapolis homeowners experience and how to fix them before they become costly repairs.

Cloudy or Murky Water

Nothing is more frustrating than stepping outside to find your once-clear pool looking dull or cloudy. This issue is usually caused by:

• Unbalanced chemicals – Low chlorine, high pH, or improper alkalinity levels.
• Poor circulation – A clogged filter or insufficient pump run time.
• Debris buildup – Leaves, dirt, or algae starting to form.

How to Fix It:

Start by testing your water chemistry and adjusting pH, alkalinity, and chlorine as needed. Run the pump for at least 8-12 hours a day and clean or backwash the filter to improve circulation. If cloudiness persists, shocking the pool with a chlorine boost can help clear things up.

Algae Growth

Algae can turn a pool green, yellow, or even black if left untreated. It thrives in warm water with poor circulation and low chlorine levels.

How to Fix It:

First, brush the pool walls and floor to loosen the algae. Then, shock the pool with a high dose of chlorine and run the pump continuously until the water clears. Adding an algaecide can prevent future growth. Keeping your pool properly chlorinated and brushing it weekly will help keep algae at bay.

Low Water Levels

It’s normal for pool water to evaporate, especially during hot Indianapolis summers. However, excessive water loss can signal a leak.

How to Fix It:

If you’re losing more than 1/4 inch of water per day, try the bucket test: Place a bucket of water on the pool steps and mark the water levels inside and outside the bucket. If the pool water drops significantly more than the bucket water after 24 hours, you likely have a leak. Contact a pool professional to locate and repair it.

Pump or Filter Issues

Your pool’s pump and filter are essential for keeping the water clean. If your pump isn’t running correctly or the filter is clogged, you’ll notice dirty or stagnant water.

How to Fix It:

Check for debris blocking the pump basket or skimmer. Clean the filter or backwash it if needed. If the pump still isn’t working, inspect the motor for overheating or clogged impellers. A pool technician can help diagnose more complex issues.

Calcium Buildup on Pool Surfaces

Indianapolis has moderately hard water, which means calcium deposits can form on pool surfaces and equipment over time.

How to Fix It:

Regularly brushing the pool and keeping the pH balanced helps prevent scaling. If deposits appear, a pumice stone or special pool-scale remover can help scrub them away.

Keep Your Pool in Top Shape

Most pool problems can be avoided with regular maintenance, proper water chemistry, and good circulation. When issues arise, tackling them early prevents bigger headaches down the road. If you need expert help, Perma Pools offers professional maintenance and repair services in Indianapolis – give us a call today and we’ll get you swimming again in no time!