10 Signs Your Pool Needs Immediate Cleaning

1. Cloudy or Discoloured Water

When pool water loses its usual clarity or takes on a green, brown, or dull blue tinge, it's often the first sign something's wrong. Cloudy water is typically caused by a build-up of contaminants like dirt, body oils, sunscreen, or bacteria. It may also be due to improper filtration or imbalanced pH and chlorine levels. In coastal areas like Coffs Harbour, pool cleaning is especially important. High humidity and airborne debris can speed up algae growth and water imbalance, making regular maintenance essential to keep your pool clean, safe, and functioning well. Cloudy water isn’t just an eyesore—it can be unsafe for swimmers and a sign that your pool needs immediate attention.

2. Algae Growth on Walls & Steps

Algae in any form—green, mustard, or black—is a clear sign your pool needs a thorough cleaning. These organisms thrive in warm, untreated water and can quickly spread across surfaces. Once established, algae can create slippery areas on your steps and pool floor, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. It can also disrupt water quality and stain surfaces, leading to longer-term maintenance issues. Spotting even a small patch of algae is reason enough to act quickly, as early treatment can prevent more serious contamination.

3. Unpleasant Smell or Strong Chlorine Odour

Pools are often associated with a faint chlorine scent, but if that smell becomes overpowering—or worse, develops into a foul odour—it could indicate that the water is out of balance. Contrary to popular belief, a strong chlorine smell usually signals the presence of chloramines, which form when chlorine combines with sweat, oils, and other organic materials. These compounds not only reduce the pool’s sanitising effectiveness but also irritate the eyes and skin. If your pool starts to smell odd, a professional cleaning may help restore the proper chemical balance.

4. Floating Debris That Won’t Clear

If your pool is constantly full of leaves, insects, or dirt—even after skimming—it may be time for a deeper clean. Poor water circulation or a clogged filter can prevent debris from being properly collected and removed. In areas with high tree coverage or seasonal changes, pools can fill up with organic matter quickly. When this debris sinks or begins to decompose, it can impact the pH and chlorine levels, leading to cloudy water or algae. Professional cleaning can help remove built-up organic waste, inspect your filtration system, and return your pool to a cleaner state.

5. Eye, Skin & Throat Irritation

Stinging eyes, itchy skin, or an irritated throat after swimming are warning signs that your pool’s water chemistry might be off. These reactions are often linked to high chloramine levels, unbalanced pH, or the presence of contaminants. For people with sensitive skin, this can be especially uncomfortable and may even cause allergic reactions. If multiple swimmers are reporting similar symptoms, it’s time to consider a professional pool cleaning and chemical check to help make the water safer for everyone.

6. Slippery Pool Surfaces

Slippery steps, ladders, or pool floors are not just a minor annoyance—they can pose a real safety risk. These surfaces often become slick due to algae or bacterial biofilms forming a thin layer that’s invisible until you step on it. This biofilm can be difficult to remove with general brushing or standard home cleaning tools. If your pool surfaces are starting to feel unusually slick or slimy, it’s best to schedule a deep clean before someone gets injured.

7. Insect & Pest Activity

Mosquitoes breeding in stagnant water or frogs taking up residence in the deep end are signs that your pool may not be circulating or sanitising properly. Insects are naturally drawn to still, nutrient-rich water, and once they arrive, they can be difficult to remove without thorough cleaning. In some cases, pest activity also indicates an underlying issue such as a broken pump, faulty chlorinator, or clogged filter. Routine professional cleaning can help deter pests and keep your pool water moving, balanced, and less inviting to wildlife.

8. Clogged or Slow-Running Pool Equipment

If you’ve noticed your pool pump making unusual noises, filters taking longer to cycle, or skimmers not collecting debris as they should, it may be a sign your equipment is under strain. When dirt, leaves, and organic waste block the flow of water through your system, it reduces the efficiency of your equipment and can cause long-term damage. Clogged filters and sluggish circulation not only prevent proper cleaning but also make it harder to maintain water clarity and chemical balance. Addressing this early with a professional cleaning can help avoid more expensive repairs down the line.

9. Staining on Pool Surfaces

Stains on the walls, floor, or steps of your pool may be caused by metals like copper or iron, algae residue, or decaying organic matter. These stains are not only visually unappealing but can also be difficult to remove if left untreated. They’re often a sign that your pool chemistry is out of balance or that certain contaminants have been present for a prolonged period. Professional pool cleaners have the tools and treatments to identify the type of stain and remove it before it becomes permanent.

10. Increased Chemical Use Without Results

If you're constantly adjusting pH levels, adding chlorine, or shocking the pool—yet the water still doesn’t look or feel right—it may be time for a reset. Overloading your pool with chemicals without addressing the underlying problem can lead to more issues, including scaling, corrosion, and swimmer discomfort. A deep professional clean can help remove contaminants, stabilise chemical levels, and improve your pool’s overall performance. Rather than wasting time and money on repeated chemical treatments, a cleaning can help get your pool back to a balanced state.

Need Pool Cleaning Near You? Let Us Help

Whether you're a homeowner, property manager, or accommodation provider, staying on top of pool maintenance is essential. At Holiday Coast Pools & Water, pool cleaning in Coffs Harbour is tailored to local conditions and delivered with attention to water clarity, equipment care, and swimmer health. Contact us today to arrange your next pool service and enjoy peace of mind knowing your pool is professionally maintained.