Common Pool Problems in Tampa: Troubleshooting Your Backyard Oasis

Living in Tampa means having a personal paradise right in your backyard. Whether you're cooling off after a humid afternoon in Hyde Park or hosting a barbecue in Westchase, your pool is likely the center of your outdoor life. However, owning a pool isn't always smooth sailing. From green water to noisy pumps, issues can pop up that turn your relaxation zone into a source of stress.

Understanding the root causes of these issues is the first step toward fixing them. While some problems are quick DIY fixes, others are signs that you might need professional pool repair in Tampa Florida. Let's dive into the most common frustrations homeowners face and how to get your water sparkling again.

Why is my pool water green?

Algae growth is the most frequent complaint we hear from pool owners, especially during our rainy season. Algae is a microscopic plant that loves sunlight and warm water, two things we have in abundance here. When your chlorine levels drop, even for a day or two, algae can take hold and bloom rapidly.

The different types of algae

Not all algae are created equal. Identifying the color is the first step in treating it:

Green Algae: This is the most common variety. It floats in the water and clings to walls, making the pool look like a swamp. It spreads quickly, but is usually the easiest to kill.
Mustard (Yellow) Algae: This looks like pollen or sand on the floor of the pool. It is resistant to normal chlorine levels and loves to hide in shady spots.
Black Algae: This is the nightmare scenario for many pool owners. It forms dark spots with protective layers that dig into rough surfaces.

How to fix it

To get rid of algae, you need to "shock" the pool with a high dose of chlorine and brush the walls vigorously to break the algae's protective coating. However, if you're constantly battling algae, your pool surface might be to blame. As surfaces like Marcite age (typically lasting 5–10 years), they become pitted and rough. These pits provide a perfect hiding spot for algae roots. If scrubbing isn't working, it may be time to consider pool resurfacing to restore a smooth, easy-to-clean finish.

Why is my pool water cloudy?

Cloudy water makes your pool look uninviting and can be dangerous because it hides the bottom drain. This issue usually stems from one of two things: poor filtration or a chemical imbalance.

If your filtration system isn't running long enough, or if the filter media is old, it cannot remove the tiny particles that cause cloudiness. In Tampa, we recommend running your pump 8–10 hours a day during the summer to keep up with the heat and swimmer load.

If your filter is fine, check your water chemistry. High pH, high alkalinity, or high calcium hardness can all cause the water to turn milky. Balancing your chemicals usually clears this up within 24 hours. If the water remains murky despite your best efforts, you may be dealing with a mechanical failure that requires professional pool repair in Tampa Florida.

Why does the water irritate my eyes?

Many people blame chlorine for red, stinging eyes, but the real culprit is usually a pH imbalance. The pH scale measures how acidic or basic your water is. You want to keep your pool in the "Goldilocks zone, typically between 7.4 and 7.6.

When the pH is too low (acidic), the water becomes corrosive. It can sting your eyes, dry out your skin, and even eat away at your pool equipment and surface. When the pH is too high (basic), chlorine becomes inactive and can't kill germs effectively, leading to unsafe swimming conditions. Regular testing is the only way to ensure your water is safe for your family.

Why is my filter pressure so high?

Your pool filter is the lungs of your swimming pool. When it gets clogged with dirt, leaves, and sunscreen oils, the pressure gauge on the tank will spike, and the water flow returning to the pool will weaken.

Think of it like trying to breathe through a coffee stirrer; the pump has to work much harder to push water through a dirty filter. This puts unnecessary strain on the motor and ruins energy efficiency.

Maintenance tips

Cartridge Filters: Remove the cartridges and spray them down with a garden hose until the water runs clear.
Sand/DE Filters: Perform a "backwash" to reverse the flow of water and flush out the trapped debris.

Why is my pool deck cracking?

It’s not just the water that suffers from the Florida elements; your pool deck takes a beating from the UV rays and heavy rains. Over time, you might notice cracks, fading, or peeling paint on your deck.

Cracks aren't just an eyesore; they can become tripping hazards or allow weeds to grow through. If your deck looks worn out, pool deck resurfacing is a great way to breathe new life into your backyard. A fresh acrylic coating or new pavers can modernize the look of your home while protecting the concrete beneath.

Why is my pump making a loud noise?

A quiet hum is normal, but if your pool pump sounds like a jet engine taking off or a bag of rocks, something is wrong. Common mechanical issues include:

Worn Bearings: This causes a screeching or grinding noise.
Air Leaks: If the pump is sucking air, it might make a gargling sound.
Clogged Impeller: Debris trapped inside the pump housing can cause a humming or rattling noise.

Ignoring these sounds leads to total motor failure. In many cases, it makes more financial sense to upgrade rather than repair. For example, switching to a modern variable speed pump can save homeowners roughly $600 to $1,000 per year on electricity costs. These pumps run at lower speeds for filtration, using significantly less power than traditional single-speed pumps.

If you aren't sure if you need a repair or a replacement, calling a specialist for pool repair in Tampa Florida can help you crunch the numbers.

Preventative Measures for Homeowners

The best way to fix a pool problem is to prevent it from happening in the first place. A little proactive care goes a long way.

Establish a Routine

Consistency is key. Whether you live in a historic bungalow in Seminole Heights or a new build near the bay, your pool needs weekly attention.

Skim and Brush: Remove leaves before they sink and stain the bottom. Brush the walls to prevent algae from settling.
Test the Water: Check chlorine and pH levels at least once a week.
Empty Baskets: Clogged skimmer baskets restrict water flow and strain the pump.

Know When to Call a Pro

While skimming and chemical testing are great DIY tasks, handling electrical components or major leaks requires expertise. Professional maintenance services can spot small issues, like a hairline crack in a pipe or a slow drip from a filter, before they turn into expensive disasters.

Keep Your Pool Swim-Ready

Owning a pool in Florida is a lifestyle, but it requires upkeep to ensure it remains a safe and enjoyable retreat. From battling algae blooms to upgrading old equipment, staying on top of maintenance saves you money and frustration in the long run.

If you're struggling with cloudy water, outdated surfaces, or noisy equipment, you don't have to tackle it alone. We are here to help you get the most out of your pool.

For expert advice and quality service, call Aqua Coat Pool Plastering at (813) 767-1567 today.