Frequently Asked Questions Q. Why is my pool water cloudy? A.  Several things can cause a pool to lose its clarity – inadequate water circulation, chemical imbalance, poor filtration, low sanitizer levels or lack of oxidation. Q. Can algae really hurt my pool? A. Yes! If left unchecked, algae can grow in free-floating patches or cling to pool walls. Not only can algae clog filters, it eventually can cause pool surface damage and impact swimmers’ health. Q. Why does my pool have a strong chlorine smell? A.  You may be improperly administering chemicals, which is costly and can prove harmful to eyes and skin. Q. Can I experiment with chemicals till I get the water quality I want? A. NEVER experiment! Improper measuring and mixing of chemicals – whether diluted or concentrated – can create both unwanted reactions and potential health hazards. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions with special attention to safety gear, clean up and storage. Q. What is RWI? A. RWI stands for recreational water illnesses that are caused by bacteria found in water, such as pools and spas. RWI usually involves diarrhea-type illnesses, but also can cause skin rash and ear, eye or respiratory infections. Pool and spa water requires proper chemical treatment to lessen the incidence of RWI. Also, people should avoid swallowing pool water and not swim while sick. Contact a professional pool service technician for additional guidance on these and other pool care issues.