5 Steps for Treating a Pool With Well Water

Test for metals before adding chlorine Well water often contains iron, manganese, or calcium that will turn your pool green, brown, or cloudy the moment you add chlorine. Test the water first to avoid this problem.

Add a metal sequestrant If iron is present, add a sequestrant like Metal Magic or Stain Free and run the filter for 24 hours. Without this step, chlorine will oxidize the metals and cause stains and discoloration.

Balance pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness Aim for pH 7.4–7.6, alkalinity 80–120, and calcium hardness 200–400. Well water tends to be low in pH and alkalinity, so expect to add soda ash or baking soda.

Wait to shock the pool Do not add shock until the sequestrant has circulated and the water is clear. Rushing this step will undo your metal treatment.

Watch for calcium scaling If your well water has high calcium, you will see scaling on tiles. Use a scale inhibitor if calcium hardness exceeds 400 ppm.