What Causes Calcium Buildup in Pools?

Have you noticed that your pool water sometimes looks cloudy? Or maybe the surface of your pool feels rough to the touch? These are all signs of calcium buildup, which is bad news if you’re hoping to swim regularly in your pool this summer.

It’s only natural that you’ll want to get as much use out of your pool as possible, so it’s important you understand why calcium buildup occurs and what you can do to prevent it. But what causes calcium buildup in pools? The team here at Miller Pools is here to help.

What is calcium hardness?

Calcium hardness is a measure of how much calcium and magnesium there is present in your pool water. Essentially, it indicates how hard or soft your pool water is.

Calcium hardness is measured in parts per million and you must keep regularly testing your pool water to ensure it’s properly balanced. So what is the right amount of calcium in a pool? Generally, most industry professionals agree that 200ppm to 400ppm is the ideal range. However, this can vary depending on the type of pool surface you have and the quality of water where you live, so consult a local pool professional if you’re unsure.

What causes calcium to build up in pools?

Calcium buildup is most commonly caused when your pool water is improperly balanced. If the pH is too high, then the calcium will precipitate; this means scale and calcium deposits will form on the surface and fixtures of your pool, leading to cloudy water and a rough texture as we mentioned above.

Calcium buildup can also be affected by the climate. Warm weather can cause your pool water to evaporate, which means that the level of calcium in your pool will be even more concentrated. Here in Pasadena, Humble & Atascocita, TX, we can experience some scorching temperatures during the summer months, so you may need to keep a close eye on your water chemistry. 

Your location can also affect calcium buildup in other ways; if your area has especially hard water – this is water with a high level of calcium and magnesium content, usually caused by the geology of the region – then your pool will naturally be more prone to calcium buildup than an area with soft water.

How to remove calcium buildup from your pool

There are several ways you can remove calcium buildup from your pool and the best method depends on the type of pool surface you have. For those with a tile or gunite pool, a pumice stone is a great way to remove any calcium deposits; however, remember to always keep it wet and maintain a light, even pressure to avoid any scratches. For more stubborn stains, you may need to use a commercial stain remover – be sure to consult with your local pool professional to find out which products are best for your pool. 

Depending on the type you choose, some will need to be applied by hand and then scrubbed away, whereas other calcium scaling treatments can be added to the pool water to dissolve calcium deposits over time.

How to prevent calcium buildup

Of course, the best way to get rid of calcium buildup is to prevent it from forming in the first place. One crucial way to do this is by arranging regularly scheduled pool maintenance with a local expert, like Miller Pools. 

We can assess the water chemistry of your pool to ensure it’s correctly balanced with a perfect pH; that way, calcium deposits are less likely to form. You could also install a pool cover to reduce evaporation and ensure the concentration of calcium stays at normal levels.

If this advice comes too late and your pool is looking a little scruffy, we also offer a pool cleaning service service to ensure your surfaces are sparkling and your pool is ready for you to dive in.

If you’re struggling with calcium buildup in your pool, let us help. The team here at Miller Pools offers pool maintenance and pool cleaning services to customers across Pasadena, Humble & Atascocita, TX, and beyond. With over 25 years of experience, you can count on us to prepare your pool for the summer season. Get in touch today to find out more.