Some pool shops will automatically tell you to acid wash your pool if you present them with an issue or a pool stain. This happens simply because they don’t know what else to suggest… and in many cases you would benefit more from a chemical stain remover more than an acid wash.
How to: If you do need an acid wash it is not that complicated of a process. First you have to completely drain your pool and pour or spay a strong mixture of hydrochloric acid and water on the walls and floor of your pool. It’s usually a 50/50 concentration. Repeat this process several times to remove stains. After you are finished, fill your pool with quality fill water again.
Cautions: Be advised some pool interiors are not meant to be acid-washed. If you have pebbles, glass, or Quartzon they cannot be acid washed more than a couple times or the acid will etch away the surface of the product. If you have a cement interior pool acid wash could also eat away at that if you do it too often, and it could make the surface more rough to the touch.
Cost: Acid washes are typically expensive. We estimate they can run between $850-$4,000 depending on the size of your pool.
Sometimes an acid wash is absolutely necessary and we understand that. You probably need an acid wash if you have a silica build-up or interior aging or dehydration. In that case we generally recommend you do your research and find a great product with easy-to-follow instructions!