How to Acid Wash a Pool: Ultimate Guide for 2025
If you frequently struggle with stubborn pool stains that won't go away, you're not alone. Maintaining a pool can be quite a hassle, especially if you deal with stains that just will not relent from time to time. Not anymore! You need acid wash- it removes such stains immediately from your pool, making it a sight to behold and in fantastic shape. So, if you've been wondering how to acid wash a pool, this is the guide for you. So keep reading till the end on how to acid wash a pool safely!
What Is Acid Washing a Pool?
The procedure involves first draining the pool and diluting an acid solution. Then, apply the solution to affected areas, scrub the stains, and thoroughly rinse with fresh water. If acid washing is right for your pool, it is something you may contemplate.
Acid washing is suitable for plaster, concrete, or pools made of gunite. If you have a fiberglass or vinyl pool, refrain from acid washing it.
Acid washing is when you drain the pool, apply a diluted acid solution on the affected area, scrub up the stains, and rinse thoroughly with fresh water. Acid washing tends to leave one wondering as to whether it is good for one's pool. It might definitely be, if you have a plaster, concrete, or gunite pool. Never try acid washing on a fiberglass or vinyl pool.
Why Acid Wash Your Pool?
If you deal with the following problems, it’s time to acid wash your pool:
- Stains: Chlorine, minerals, or dirt leave stains over time. If brushing and vacuuming aren’t working, resort to acid wash.
- Algae: If your pool suffers from a recurring algae problem, acid washing will permanently remove algae spores, making your pool crystal clear.
- Stagnation: Should the pool not have been used for a considerable time, acid washing may be involved since there will be algae, bacteria, and dirt growing in it. All these contaminants would be removed during acid washing and would render the pool safe for swimming.
Pros and Cons of Acid Washing a Pool
Still skeptical about acid washing? Here’s what you need to know.
| Method | Best For | Frequency | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Robotic Pool Cleaner | Routine upkeep, prevention | Weekly | $300-$1,500 (one-time) |
| Acid Washing | Stubborn stains, deep clean | Every 5-7 years | $650-$4,000 |
| Manual Brushing | Light debris, small pools | Weekly | Free (labor) |
How to Acid Wash a Pool: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to acid washing a pool.
- Drain the pool completely.
- Wear protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and a respirator.
- Mix muriatic acid with water (typically a 1:1 ratio, but follow safety guidelines).
- Apply the solution with a watering can or acid-resistant sprayer.
- Scrub stained areas with a pool brush.
- Rinse thoroughly with a hose.
- Neutralize acid residue with a baking soda solution.
- Refill the pool and rebalance chemicals.
Note: Since acid emits toxic fumes, you must wear protective gear. Acid can cause skin burns when it comes into contact with the body. So, protect your safety by hiring professional help to do the job.
No-Drain Acid Wash: What You Need to Know
If you reside in a high water table area, it means that you cannot drain water, as it may cause pool cracks. You need a no-drain acid wash. It involves adding the acid to the pool and circulating it. Over time, it removes stains and scale gradually. However, it has its limits. For example, it has less acid wash efficacy than ordinary, and it has a higher risk of chemical imbalance, which might harm the water balance. It may prove to be a costly business, requiring longer time and professional work.
How Much Does It Cost to Acid Wash a Pool?
The cost of acid washing is between $650 and $4,000, depending on pool size, labor rates, and the extent of staining on the pool. The extra cost for water filling and chemical balancing would range from about $90 to $270. Labor ranges from $80 to $200 an hour, and if you go DIY acid washing, acid costs about $40, but it's dangerous and takes time.
When to Hire a Professional vs. DIY
If you have past experience with acid wash and you have a small pool, with less staining in the pool, you can do it yourself. If you have large pools with severe stains, and from a safety perspective, you would be better off hiring a professional for pool stain removal.
How Often Should You Acid Wash Your Pool?
You should acid wash your pool every 5-7 years, because if the pool is stained heavily, then depending on the severity of stains, you would maintain the pool so that the acid wash requirement wouldn't be necessary. A robotic pool cleaner is your best solution as it automatically cleans the pool and maintains water clarity after acid washing.
Keeping Your Pool Clean Between Acid Washes
An acid wash will make your pool look brand new. However, how do you keep it looking new? The crux of keeping your pool is regular upkeep to avoid being tarnished. Robotic cleaners maximize these by cleaning surfaces and filtering out debris that can build up algae and stains, necessitating costly acid washes. Storage tanks are not a substitute for acid-washing deep cleaning; however, they become a useful component of your pool care.
Final Thought
Acid washing is the most convenient method of removing ugly stains, but it must be carried out carefully and planned. So, depending on the size of the pool, maintenance requirements, and the stain, weigh the balance of DIY methods against hiring a contractor for safety and comfort.