The Effects of Metals in Pool Water — And How to Remove Them

When it comes to keeping your pool sparkling and safe, most Sacramento homeowners think about chlorine levels, pH, and algae control. But one issue often overlooked is the presence of metals in pool water. Metals such as copper, iron, and manganese can cause discoloration, staining, and even damage to your pool surfaces if not properly treated.

At Provident Pools, we’ve helped pool owners throughout the Sacramento area identify and remove metals from their water before they turn into long-term problems. Here’s what you need to know.

What Causes Metals in Pool Water?

Metals can get into your pool in several ways:

• Source Water: Well water and even some municipal water sources contain naturally occurring metals.

• Old Plumbing and Equipment: Corroding pipes, heaters, and fixtures can leach metals into the pool.

• Chemical Imbalances: Low pH or high chlorine can corrode metal parts, introducing metals into the water.

• Algaecides and Pool Chemicals: Some algaecides and sanitizers contain copper, which can build up over time.

What Are the Effects of Metals in Pool Water?

Metals in your pool don’t just disappear — they create a range of issues that worsen if ignored:

• Staining on Surfaces: Iron can leave reddish-brown stains, while copper often shows up as blue-green spots.

• Water Discoloration: Metals can tint the entire pool — brownish from iron, greenish from copper, or even black from manganese.

• Hair and Skin Effects: High copper levels can tint light-colored hair green and may irritate sensitive skin.

• Equipment Damage: Over time, metals corrode heaters, ladders, and pool fixtures, leading to costly repairs.

How to Remove Metals From Pool Water

If you suspect metals are in your pool, here’s the professional approach we use at Provident Pools:

1. Water Testing: Accurate testing identifies which metals are present and at what concentration.

2. Balance the Water Chemistry: Maintaining proper pH and alkalinity helps prevent metals from becoming unstable and causing stains.

3. Metal Sequestrants: Adding a metal sequestrant binds the metals, keeping them in solution so they can’t stain surfaces. These treatments need regular re-application.

4. Stain Removal Treatments: If stains have already formed, specialized stain removers can lift discoloration from plaster, tile, or vinyl.

5. Filtration & Circulation: Keeping your filter system running efficiently helps capture metals once they’re bound or precipitated out of solution.

6. Source Water Filtration: For pools filled with well water or metal-rich water, pre-filtering before it enters the pool can stop the problem before it starts.

Why Choose Provident Pools for Metal Removal?

Metals in pool water can be frustrating and costly if left untreated. At Provident Pools, we have extensive experience identifying and eliminating metals for pool owners across Sacramento. Our team uses professional-grade testing, treatments, and prevention strategies to restore and protect your pool’s beauty.

We don’t just fix the problem — we provide ongoing maintenance to ensure metals don’t come back.

Protect Your Sacramento Pool From Metal Damage

If you’re noticing stains, strange water colors, or unexplained hair discoloration, metals could be the culprit. Don’t wait until it damages your pool or equipment — Provident Pools is here to help with expert metal removal and pool maintenance services in Sacramento.

👉 Contact Provident Pools at 916-954-1909

today to schedule a water test and get your pool back to crystal-clear perfection.