Owning a swimming pool is a luxury that comes with great rewards — but also a few challenges. From the unpredictable UK weather to changes in water chemistry, keeping your pool clean and healthy can sometimes be tricky. At New Forest Pools, we help homeowners across the New Forest and surrounding areas keep their pools crystal clear and problem-free. Here are five of the most common pool issues in the UK and how to fix them.

1. Green or Cloudy Water

A green pool is one of the most common problems faced by pool owners. It’s usually caused by algae growth due to low chlorine levels, poor filtration, or unbalanced pH.
How to fix it: Test your pool water and shock it with a chlorine treatment or algaecide. Clean the filter and run the pump continuously until the water clears. For persistent green water, contact New Forest Pools for professional cleaning and chemical balancing.

2. Low or Unbalanced Chemical Levels

Inconsistent water chemistry can lead to eye irritation, cloudy water, and even damage to pool equipment.
How to fix it: Regularly test and adjust chlorine, pH, and alkalinity levels. Aim for a pH between 7.2 and 7.6 and maintain proper chlorine levels. If balancing your water feels overwhelming, our maintenance plans ensure your pool stays perfectly balanced year-round.

3. Poor Circulation or Weak Water Flow

If your pool water isn’t circulating properly, dirt and debris can build up, leading to cloudy or unhealthy water.
How to fix it: Check for blockages in the skimmer or pump basket and make sure your filter is clean. Running your pump daily helps keep water moving. If circulation problems continue, New Forest Pools can inspect your system and restore full flow.

4. Stains or Discolouration

Brown or green stains on your pool surfaces are often caused by metals, algae, or mineral buildup in the water.
How to fix it: Identify the cause before treating — metal stains may need a metal remover, while organic stains require brushing and shock treatment. Regular maintenance helps prevent staining from returning.

5. Heating or Equipment Issues

In the UK climate, pool heaters and pumps work hard — and sometimes fail when you need them most.
How to fix it: Regular servicing and early fault detection can prevent breakdowns. If your heater isn’t warming properly or your pump sounds unusual, our trained technicians can diagnose and repair the issue quickly.

Keep Your Pool in Perfect Condition

Whether it’s green water, chemical imbalance, or equipment problems, New Forest Pools provides expert maintenance and cleaning across New Milton, Lymington, Bashley, Highcliffe,  Christchurch, and the wider New Forest area.

Let us take the stress out of pool care — contact New Forest Pools today for reliable, professional service that keeps your water clear, safe, and ready to enjoy.