Pool Surface Discolorations

Pool surface discolorations can be caused by many types of plant materials; eucalyptus leaves are an especially common offender. Even worms and insects can leave brown stains on your pool surface. The good news is that in the majority of cases, the normal chlorine residual in your water will bleach out these types of marks in a few days. If they don't go away at first, try raising the chlorine level to 3.0-4.0 ppm for a few days to see if that will work. Really stubborn stains may require the use of a tool that holds a three-inch chlorine tablet and snaps on the end of your pole, allowing you to rub the tablet right on the offending spot. Designed mainly for treating black algae, these tools are available at most pool stores, but don't use them on a vinyl-lined pool. One more comment: if you haven't already done so, cut back the tree!

--John S. Raabe, Fountain Valley, CA