A green pool is frustrating. You can’t swim in it, and it’s the first thing people notice in your backyard. The good news is that most green pools can be brought back. We’ve been doing it in Peoria and across the Valley for years.

Why Pools Turn Green

A pool turns green when algae grows faster than the chlorine can kill it. That usually comes down to one of three things:

• Chemistry is off. Low chlorine or pH that’s out of range gives algae a head start.
• Water isn’t moving. A weak pump, a short timer, or a clogged filter leaves dead spots where algae grows.
• Nobody’s watching. A pool left alone for a week or two in Arizona summer heat can go green fast.

Storm just hit? See our monsoon guide.

Algae is only part of the problem. Green water can hide cloudy spots, debris on the bottom, and worn equipment.

How We Bring It Back

We follow the same steps on every green pool. How long it takes depends on how bad it is.

Step 1: Look it over and test the water

We check how much algae there is, the water balance, the filter, and how clear the water is. Then we test the water to find what’s missing or out of range. That tells us why the pool turned green in the first place. If the cause isn’t a common one, we run a digital water test for a more detailed read before we plan the fix.

Step 2: Shock the pool

We add a heavy dose of chlorine to kill the algae and other growth in the water. Depending on the type of algae and how thick it is, we may also add algaecide to help.

Step 3: Brush and clear debris

We brush the walls, floor, steps, and fixtures by hand. That knocks the algae loose so the chlorine can reach it. We also pull out leaves and debris from the bottom, since it feeds algae if it stays.

Step 4: Clean the filter and fix circulation

Dead algae has to go somewhere, and most of it ends up in the filter. We clean it out so it can keep up. We also set the pump and valves so the chemicals spread through the whole pool.

Step 5: Floc it or drain it, if needed

In bad cases, we may drain part of the pool and refill it to reset the water. Other times we add a flocculant. That clumps the dead algae together so it sinks and can be vacuumed out.

Step 6: Balance the water

Once the algae is gone, we balance pH, alkalinity, hardness, and chlorine to where they should be. We keep checking and adjusting until the water holds steady.

Step 7: Final cleanup

We vacuum out the last of the dead algae and debris. Then we add a clarifier to bring back that clear, polished look.

After It’s Clear

Getting the pool clean is only half the job. Keeping it clean is the other half.

We’ll show you how to prevent it. We’ll explain what caused your pool to turn and what to watch for, whether that’s the chemistry, the filter, or how long your pump runs.

We’ll suggest a schedule. For most homes, weekly pool cleaning is enough to keep algae from coming back. Short-term rentals usually need twice a week, since guests swim a lot and don’t always look after the pool.

We’ll follow up. After the cleanup, we check back with you to make sure the water is staying clear and answer any questions. We mean that. It’s part of the job.

When It’s More Than Algae

Sometimes a pool keeps turning green because something is broken. A pump that isn’t moving enough water or a cracked filter will cause the same problem again and again. If we find that, our repair team can fix it. We’ll tell you what’s wrong and what it costs before we touch it.

We’re a full-service pool company, so you won’t need to call anyone else. Acid washes, drain and refills, leak detection, and new equipment are all things we do.

Common Questions

How long does a green pool take to clear?

Most green pools are clear in a few days. A pool that’s been green for months, or is nearly black, can take longer. We’ll give you an idea after we look at it.

Do I have to drain my pool?

Usually not. Most pools clear up with shock, brushing, and filter cleaning. We only suggest draining when the water is too far gone or the hardness is too high.

Is it safe to swim while it’s clearing?

Not right away. The chlorine is very high during treatment. Wait until it drops back to normal and you can see the bottom. We’ll tell you when it’s ready.

Why did my pool turn green right after a storm?

Monsoon rain washes dirt, leaves, and fertilizer into the pool. That feeds algae and uses up chlorine. Add a hot day or two and the water can turn fast.

Can you help if I’m buying or selling a house with a green pool?

Yes. We clean up pools for sellers, buyers, and landlords all the time.

Get Your Pool Back

Call (623) 526-4945 or request an estimate online. Green pool cleanups are quoted after we see the pool. For weekly plans afterward, take a look at what our plans include. Our service areas page shows which office is closest to you.

NextGen Pool Care is fully insured, plus licensed and bonded with the state of Arizona (ROC #356379).