Why Does My Pool Water Look Gross?
Kelsey thought her pool in Granite Bay was finally ready for a relaxing weekend. The sun was out, the furniture was set, and she’d even picked up new pool floats. But when she pulled the cover back, her heart sank—the water had a weird brown tint. It didn’t smell bad, and it wasn’t foamy, but it definitely wasn’t the sparkling blue she expected. "What is that?" she muttered.
If you’ve ever walked out to your backyard in Lincoln, Rocklin, Loomis, or anywhere in Northern California and noticed brown water in your pool, you’re not alone. And no, your pool isn’t just dirty—it’s likely reacting to metals, source water, or organic debris.
Why Pool Water Turns Brown in Northern California
Before you panic, brown water usually has a logical explanation—and it doesn’t always mean your pool is ruined.
Metal Contamination from Fill Water
In many parts of Northern California, especially homes with wells or older plumbing systems, iron and manganese can enter the pool through the hose. These metals are often invisible at first, but once they oxidize—usually after adding chlorine—they tint the water brown or rusty.
Organic Debris After Wind or Storms
If there’s been a lot of wind or wildfire ash in the area, your pool may have collected leaves, branches, and pollen. As they break down, they can give your water a brown or tea-colored appearance.
A Failing Pool Heater
If your heater’s internal components are corroding, copper or rust particles can leach into your water. This isn’t just a water color issue—it’s a signal that your heater may be nearing the end of its life.
What to Do About It
First things first: don’t drain the pool. Most brown-water situations are treatable.
Test for Metals
Use a test kit or bring a water sample to a local pool store. If metals like iron or manganese are high, you’ll need a metal sequestrant.
Add a Metal Sequestrant
These products bind to the metals in the water so they don’t oxidize and cause staining. You’ll need to continue using the product weekly if your water source contains metals.
Clean and Backwash the Filter
Once you’ve treated the water, your filter will be working overtime. Backwash or clean your cartridge to help it keep up.
Shock Cautiously
Avoid over-shocking the pool before metals are addressed—otherwise, you’ll just cause more oxidation and deepen the color.
Use a Clarifier
If the water is still murky after metal treatment, a clarifier can help gather fine particles so they’re easier to filter out.
When to Call a Professional
If you’re not sure what caused the discoloration—or if treating it doesn’t seem to help—it’s time to bring in a pool expert. Persistent brown water can signal underlying issues like deteriorating pipes, faulty equipment, or chronic metal contamination.
At American Dream Pool & Spa Service, we’ve seen every color pool water can turn—and we know exactly how to bring it back to clear, clean, and swim-ready. Whether you’re dealing with brown water in Roseville, a hazy mess in Granite Bay, or metal buildup in Sheridan, our team has you covered.
Contact us today to schedule professional pool service and say goodbye to brown pool water for good.
American Dream Pool and Spa Service is a trusted provider of pool and spa maintenance, repair, and cleaning services. They serve the areas of Lincoln, Rocklin, Roseville, Granite Bay, and Sheridan, CA, offering comprehensive care for both residential and commercial pools. Their services include everything from routine maintenance to specialized repairs for pool and spa equipment, ensuring that every pool owner enjoys a clean, safe, and well-maintained pool or spa throughout the year. With a focus on customer satisfaction, American Dream Pool and Spa Service strives to keep pools in top condition, regardless of the season.
