Help! My Pool Water Turned Black!

Help! My pool water turned black! Chances are you landed on this page because you have dark black water in your pool or spa. Black pool water can be easily treated using our directions, one of our kits, and a few hours of your time.

What is the cause of black swimming pool water?

Black-colored pool water is not a frequent pool problem in a well-maintained pool. Black water can be caused by either a very high level of organic debris, such as that found in abandoned pools, or metals, such as manganese. It is important to know the cause of the problem, as the methods to get rid of the organic debris or the metals are very different. 

DO NOT ENTER THE WATER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.

Click below on the cloudy or clear black water pool which resembles your pool water for a solution.

How did manganese get into my swimming pool water?

Manganese can find its way into pool water from various sources, potentially leading to water discoloration and other issues. It’s important to manage manganese levels to ensure the safety and appearance of the pool.

Here are some sources of manganese in pool water: Source Water-if the water used to fill the pool contains manganese, it will introduce the mineral into the pool. Corroding Metal Equipment-Manganese can leach into the water from metal components in the pool system that corrode.  These include pipes, fittings, or heaters. 

Well Water-if the pool is filled with well water, there is a possibility that the water may contain naturally occurring manganese. Chemical Additives-some pool chemicals, such as certain algaecides or clarifiers, can contain trace amounts of manganese as impurities. Contaminated Fill Water-pools filled with water which has come into contact with manganese-rich materials .  Examples are runoff from construction sites or contaminated hoses,  which can lead to manganese presence in the pool water. 

Decaying Organic Matter-organic materials, such as leaves, algae, or other debris, can release manganese as they decompose in the pool water. Improperly Maintained Pool Equipment-poorly maintained pool equipment, such as filters, can harbor manganese buildup and release it into the water. 

Fertilizers and Runoff-pool areas close to landscaping fertilized with manganese-containing products, can introduce manganese into the pool. Household Cleaning Products-Splash and wind dispersal introduces manganese if cleaning products containing manganese are used near the pool.  Environmental Factor-Nearby mining or industrial activities contribute to manganese levels in the surrounding area, which includes pool water.

Regular testing and proper pool maintenance are essential to prevent the buildup of manganese and other contaminants in pool water. If you suspect elevated manganese levels, use one of our kits to remove manganese. Consult a pool professional to help identify the source and recommend appropriate corrective action.

How do I get rid of manganese in my pool water?

CuLator Metal Eliminator and Stain Preventer for Pools and Spas
CuLator Metal Identification Color Chart

 CuLator Metal Eliminator and Stain Preventer!  

CuLator is patented and the only way to remove and eliminate stain-causing metals like rust, iron, copper, manganese, and cobalt without draining your swimming pool water.

Patented CuLator removes, eliminates, and captures metals inside the CuLator bag for easy removal.  CuLator works in a wide range of pH and doesn’t dissolve in water, so it doesn’t add to your TDS.  CuLator finishes what sequestering agents and metal control products start.

There are two sizes of CuLator:

CuLator PowerPak 1.0

CuLator Ultra 4.0

A CuLator PowerPak 1.0 removes 1 ppm dissolved metals from 20,000 gallons and is placed into the skimmer basket. The CuLator Ultra 4.0 removes 4 ppm dissolved metals from 20,000 gallons of pool water.  The Ultra 4.0 also includes a GatorEgg protective cage which allows the Ultra to be placed into the pump basket.  When the CuLator removes metals from pool water, the contents usually change color to identify those metals removed! CuLator removes and eliminates these stain-causing metals from pool water: