Category Archives: Pool Acid Washing

Are you searching for reasons “why you should acid wash your pool“? If the answer is yes, this post should help!

There are a lot of reasons to own a pool, but just like some things, it is necessary to maintain it as well. Most people are fine to use a test kit, add chemicals and clean the pool while others want to use a professional service.

Either way, during the life of your pool acid washing may come up. For those who have no idea about pool care, this may cause you to ask questions like “What is acid washing?” , “Why acid wash your pool?” and “Do you have to do it?”

Why Should A Pool Be Acid Washed?

There are some pools that will have stains or discolored surfaces that develop over time. For instance, magnesium or copper stains can turn plaster from white to blue. A black plaster pool may begin to look gray from calcium deposits. Sometimes these stains can’t be removed with scrubbing alone, and need to be acid washed to remove them. Plus, pools that have issues with hard water or algae growth will actually benefit from being drained, acid washed and then refilled. Acid washing can also be used to remove calcium on pool tile.

What is acid washing and how is it done?

Acid washing is a process that is done on a pebble tec or plaster pool to remove a thin layer of the surface to remove stubborn stains and calcium deposits. The pool is drained and the sides scrubbed. Then a solution of muriatic acid and water is applied to remove the topcoat of the pool. This is done manually using an acid brush. The residue is then neutralized with soda ash before being rinsed.

How Often Should I Acid Wash My Pool?

Because acid washing will remove a thin layer of the surface of the pool, it does not need to be done yearly. Too many treatments will cause the pool to need to be re-plastered. Pools that have thin, old plaster should not be acid washed and sometimes a deep stain will not respond to acid washing. In that case, re-plastering is best. A professional will test the pool first to see if acid washing will help.

Best Time Of The Year For Pool Acid Washing 

Spring and winter are the best times to consider acid washing your pool, so at Above All Pool Care decided to provide you with basic information to help answer questions you may have.

How Much Does Pool Acid Washing Cost?

The cost of acid washing will depend on the size of your pool. For an average sized pool, it could range between $400 – $700 or $0.60 to $0.65 a square foot.

Helpful Tools To Maintain Pool Surfaces:

Pool Stain Remover is a great maintenance product that will remove stains cause by tannin, rust, manganese, iron and copper. A great product to test out before having acid washing done.

You can also scrub away gross algae stains with a tough, durable algae brush. Regular scrubbing means less money, less hassle, and less work in the long run.

Lastly, a basic pool brush is going to be your first line of defense against stains and pool scum. Regular brushing between your regular maintenance will prevent build up on the pool surface.

Acid Washing Services By Above All Pool Care 

If you happen to live in the Gilbert, Chandler or Scottsdale area and could use pool acid washing services, give Above All Pool Care a call today or visit or acid washing page for more information.

Let Above All Pool Care educate and equip you for your swimming season and year round.