Every pool owner dreams of having sparkling clean pools in their residence. But if you find brown dust on the bottom of the pool, you feel a very unwelcome sight. Well, it’s not only an eyesore but also an indicator of a potential issue with the water quality & maintenance.
In this article, I will discuss the causes of brown dust on the bottom of the pool and share some effective solutions to get rid of it. We will further explore preventive measures that can keep your pool crystal clear along the way.
However, before I tell you all of this, you must pay attention to the regular cleanliness & maintenance of a pool system. Now let’s understand the major causes of brown dust on the bottom of the pool & find an appropriate solution.
3 Causes of Brown Dust on the Bottom of the Pool
High Iron Content in Water
As per Natural Pool Products, high iron content in water to be the primary cause of down dust & stain in pool water. Yes, a high presence of iron content can lead to the formation of brown dust on the bottom of the pool.
According to a study conducted by the International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications, iron can dissolve in pool water from various sources, including groundwater and metal fittings. Therefore, if you have metal fitting, this might be the real culprit. When chlorine comes into contact with dissolved iron, it usually reacts chemically, forming brown dust as well.
Algae Growth
You should know that algae growth in the pool may also contribute to the formation of brown dust on the bottom of the pool. You can find many real-life examples of algae-induced brown dust due to pool management neglecting regular maintenance & letting the pool become a breeding ground for algae growth.
As algae multiply, they further contribute to brown discoloration at the pool bottom. This kind of situation escalates quickly, causing complaints from pool-goers as well. Therefore, if you find brown dust on the bottom of the pool, introduce some algaecide in the recommended dosage.
Organic Matter & Debris
Another significant cause of brown dust in the pool tends to be the accumulation of organic debris & organic matter. Leaves, pollen, dirt, and other contaminants, can enter the pool & settle at the bottom if the pool filtration system is not functioning optimally.
Improper filtration & skimming have significantly contributed to the build-up of organic matter, further leading to brown dust formation.
3 Solutions to Remove Brown Dust from Pool Water
Water Testing & Balancing
If you want to find an effective solution to brown dust on the pool floor, conduct a proper test & determine the Chemistry. Hence you must maintain proper pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels to prevent brown dust formation. Plus, if you want to learn “How to Raise pH Without Raising Alkalinity“, check this post out.
You should invest in a reliable testing kit which must be widely available in your local pool supplies Store. This testing kit will help you monitor the water chemistry & ensure it remains within the ideal range.
Water testing & balancing is not only important to remove brown dust from the pool water and keep the water crystal clear. In Fact, regular cleaning & maintenance of the pool results in pristine & aesthetic.
I am mentioning ideal water chemistry parameters that you need to match in your pool depending upon factors like pool type, the volume of water, and its other water perimeters.
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
| pH | 7.4-7.6 |
| Total Alkalinity | 80-120 ppm |
| Free Chlorine | 2-4 ppm |
Pool Filtration & Skimming
I also encountered a similar issue in my backyard pool a few years back. I learned that keeping the pool filtration system in a top-notch condition is, in Fact, paramount to removing debris & prevent brown dust.
If you also realize that your pool is accumulating brown dust, never mind checking the filter for any signs of clogging or damage. If your filter needs cleaning, do it manually with the help of the user manual.
If you clean it properly & backwash the filter effectively, the water clarity will improve significantly & further prevent formation. Regular skimming is also important in keeping the pool filtration in top condition.
Equally, you should also skim the pool surface daily to remove any floating debris before it has any chance to settle at the bottom. In Fact, a study published by the Northern Health emphasizes frequent skimming significantly reduces the likelihood of brown dust formation on the bottom of the pool.
Shock Treatment
If you think the brown dust on the bottom of the pool is caused by algae growth, you can consider a highly Effective shock treatment. Well, shock treatment involves adding a high chlorine concentration to the pool that will kill algae instantly and other contaminants.
Being an experienced owner, I can attest to the efficiency of shock treatment in restoring pool water clarity & preventing brown dust. But it is important that you also follow all the recommended guidelines & safety precautions provided by the pool chemical manufacturers. Also note that It’s common to find cloudiness after shock treatment, but if feel that it’s too much, check my post on “Why is the Pool Cloudy After Shock“. Also make sure to learn “Should You Filter or Recirculate Pool When Shocking“
If the issue persists or you notice brown dust formation on the bottom of the pool, consult a professional for a proper assessment & solution.
4 Preventive Measures to Avoid Brown Dust Formation
Regular Pool Cleaning
It is also important to pay attention to routine cleaning as it also plays a vital role in preventing brown dust formation. The pool owner must set a schedule for brushing the pool walls & floor to remove any potential algae growth.
In addition to this, consider using a pool vacuum to eliminate organic matter before it settles at the bottom of the pool. I usually use an automatic cleaner to help eliminate organic matter from my pool. Pool owners who perform regular cleaning have clear water & reduction in dust accumulation.
Proper Pool Maintenance
Apart from routine checkups & cleaning, it is important that you also maintain your pool equipment as a regular maintenance routine part. You must backwash the filter regularly to ensure optimal filtration efficiency & crystal-clear water. Also, make sure that you inspect & clean the skimmer baskets to prevent any debris from accumulating in or clogging the system.
Use of Pool Covers
When not using the pool, use a pool cover to prevent debris from entering the water. Not only will it prevent debris accumulation, but also water loss due to evaporation. In Fact, a study published by the Journal of Department of Energy (.gov), pool covers can help you reduce maintenance requirements & maintain water quality effects for a longer period. I recommend choosing a cover that suits your needs & preferences, like a solar cover that provides heating benefits. However, if you’re wondering “Can You Run the Pool Pump with a Solar Cover On” then the answer is quite tricky as you will have to pay attention on couple of factors. Hence, check this post.
Landscaping Considerations
Proper landscaping practices can go a long way in preventing dust formation. Hence, ensure you maintain a clean surrounding area around a pool to make it more inviting and form an aesthetic Oasis. It will further reduce the introduction of organic matter as well.
It would help if you regularly trimmed the plants & trees around your pool to minimize leaves, & fallings falling into it. Also, it would help if you considered barriers like fences or screens that can help you prevent debris from blowing into the pool.
Conclusion
Undoubtedly, brown dust on the bottom of the pool is a very common issue that can be caused due to high iron content, algae growth, or organic matter accumulation. Therefore make sure you implement all the discussed solutions in the article & preventive measures to maintain a crystal clear pool & enhanced swimming experience.
I have given my best to give you all the information you need to know about brown dust on the bottom of the pool. Always make sure to regularly test & balance the water chemistry and optimize pool filtration.
Performing routine cleaning & maintenance will further ensure that your pool remains a refreshing oasis for you & your & your family members to enjoy. If you find the article helpful, then consider sharing it.
Your share will not only help people find an accurate solution for the brown dust on the bottom of the pool but also prevent it from recurring. Do check my other helpful guide on pool care & maintenance. See you in the next post, till then, take care & goodbye.
Hi, This is Josh. I am a former competitive swimmer and current fitness enthusiast.
I created this site to share my love of swimming with the world!