Expert: Lynn bellay Date: 7/12/2008 Subject: brownish film on bottom of pool
Question QUESTION: This is my 3rd season with an above ground pool with a sand filter. I always get this brownish film on the bottom of the pool. It does not vacuum well. If I slide my feet across it will kick it up but it will only re-settle. The people at Namco thought it was chroline reacting with metals in the water but the mineral magnet never seemed to work. It starts around the edges of the pool then works its way to the middle. When it is really bad I can "kick up" this film and the water gets cloudy. Then as it settles the water clears up and the bottom of the liner will be brown again. Because I had my liner replaced this year the water/liner was really clean up until this week. Except for the first 8" to 10" I had it filled with a water truck. However, I have been filling from the house since when needed.
ANSWER: Could this be iron?I would have my water tested for metals.I would use a coagulant to help vacuum it.Lynn
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QUESTION: When you say "coagulant" are you referring to a chemical that could be added prior to vacuuming? If so do you have a reccomendation? Also, would a store like Namco sell a kit to test the water for metals?
Answer Any pool store can test for metals,I have no particular type of coagulant this makes fine particles stick together for easier vacuuming.Be sure to move vac head slow when vacuuming.Lynn One other thought, do you have a heater,the copper bladder could be breaking down.
