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Why Is My Pool Green?

Overhead view of a neglected pool with greenish water

Green water often points to algae, usually along with a problem with circulation, filtration or chemistry. The colour alone doesn't tell you what treatment the pool needs, so stay out and get it checked.

Why green can mean different things

Zodiac Australia's pool FAQ links green water to algae, circulation and filtration, and water chemistry. Two pools can be the same shade of green and still need different fixes.

That's why the water should be tested before anything is added.

What if it keeps turning green?

If the water clears and turns green again, tell the person checking the pool. Let them know whether you’ve noticed weak water flow or whether the pump has stopped running. That history helps them decide what to inspect.

Note what happened

Write down when you first noticed the colour, how long it's been green and anything that changed beforehand, such as heavy rain or a pump problem. This helps whoever checks the pool.

Recovery time depends on the condition of the water and whether the pump and filter are working.

Stay out of the water

Don't swim until the water is clear and the chemistry has been checked.

Sources

Green pool recovery