Pool Acid Washing — Deep Stain Removal for a Like-New Pool Surface

Chlorine washing (a chlorine gas or strong hypochlorite solution applied to a drained pool) is a milder process that kills algae and surface bacteria but doesn't remove mineral scale or deep staining. Acid washing is more aggressive — removing a thin surface layer — and is more effective for calcium scale and persistent staining.

No — acid washing is only appropriate for concrete and plaster pools. Acid will damage fibreglass gel coat. Fibreglass pools with staining or discolouration have different treatment options that we can discuss during an assessment.

Acid washing removes a thin layer of plaster each time. Most pools can be acid washed 3–5 times over their life before replastering becomes necessary. We'll assess whether the surface can withstand an acid wash and advise if replastering would be the better choice.

Typically 2–3 days — one day for draining, one day for the acid wash and immediate neutralisation, and then refilling time (which depends on your water pressure). Chemistry establishment and testing before swimming takes a further day after refill.

All pool equipment (lights, fittings, returns) are protected during the acid wash process. Acid is kept away from metal fittings and the equipment is not operated until the pool is fully refilled and chemical neutrality is confirmed.

For most Queensland pools, we recommend a professional clean every 4–6 weeks during cooler months and every 2–4 weeks in summer when algae growth is fastest. Pool cleaning frequency depends on pool usage, surrounding trees, and whether you have an automatic cleaner. Pools that are used heavily or have lots of organic matter falling in (leaves, flowers) need more frequent service.

A standard professional pool service includes: testing and balancing water chemistry (pH, chlorine, alkalinity, stabiliser), adding chemicals as required, brushing walls and steps, vacuuming the floor, emptying skimmer and pump baskets, backwashing or cleaning the filter, and a visual inspection of equipment. We leave a service report on completion.

Yes — a green pool (algae bloom) is one of the most common pool problems in Queensland. We offer a green pool recovery service that typically restores a green pool to crystal clear within 24–72 hours. This involves heavy superchlorination, clarifier treatment, multiple filter backwashes, and brushing. The timeline depends on how severe the algae growth is. We give you a fixed-price quote for green pool recovery.

We use standard pool-grade sanitisers (chlorine), pH adjusters, algaecides, clarifiers, and stabilisers — the same products used in pools across Queensland. When correctly balanced, pool water is safe for children and pets. We advise waiting a minimum of 30 minutes after chemical addition before swimming, and longer for heavy treatments. We'll let you know at the end of every service if the pool is safe to swim in immediately.

Signs your pool equipment may need attention: pump making unusual noises, reduced water flow, filter pressure running higher than normal, automatic cleaner not moving properly, lights flickering, or water quality issues despite correct chemical levels. We inspect equipment at every service visit and flag anything that needs attention before it becomes a costly breakdown. We quote for any repairs separately and don't do work without your approval.

Yes — we service both chlorinated and saltwater (salt chlorinator) pools. Saltwater pools still require regular chemical balancing and equipment maintenance. Common saltwater pool issues we handle include cell cleaning and inspection, salt level adjustment, and pH/alkalinity balancing that can shift more frequently in salt systems.

Acid washing is a deep clean process that removes stubborn stains, calcium deposits, and discolouration from the pool surface by applying diluted acid and scrubbing. It should only be done by professionals as it's a chemical process that can damage the surface if done incorrectly. A pool typically needs acid washing every 3–7 years, or when chemical cleaning and brushing can no longer restore the surface appearance.

Yes — we install and replace pool pumps, filters, salt chlorinators, pool heaters, automatic cleaners, and LED pool lights. We also install energy-efficient variable-speed pumps that can save hundreds of dollars per year in electricity. All electrical work is carried out by our licensed electrician. We'll advise on the best equipment for your pool's size and usage.

Yes — we offer regular scheduled maintenance plans (fortnightly, monthly, or custom frequency) with discounted rates compared to one-off visits. A plan ensures your pool is consistently maintained, equipment problems are caught early, and you never have to worry about your pool going green. Ask about our Build Your Maintenance Plan tool for a custom pricing estimate.

Ideal pool water chemistry: pH 7.2–7.6, Free Chlorine 1–3 ppm (or 2–4 for saltwater), Total Alkalinity 80–120 ppm, Cyanuric Acid (stabiliser) 30–50 ppm, and Calcium Hardness 200–400 ppm. In Queensland's warm climate, maintaining these ranges is especially important as heat accelerates chemical depletion and algae growth. We test all parameters at every service visit.