Why May Is Prime Time for Pool Issues
May is one of the busiest – and most problematic – months for pool owners in New Jersey. As temperatures rise and pool covers come off, all the neglect, debris, and chemical imbalances that built up over the winter begin to surface. This seasonal shift can trigger a wave of issues that catch many homeowners off guard.
Here’s why May is often when problems appear:
- Pools are just being opened, often after months of stagnation
- Spring brings wind, rain, pollen, and debris, all of which affect water clarity
- Algae begins to thrive as temperatures rise above 60°F, especially if chlorine is low
- Water chemistry is often unbalanced due to sitting untreated over winter
- Some pools were improperly closed or poorly maintained, setting the stage for early trouble
Even if you had your pool closed professionally, May is the real test – and small problems now can quickly spiral into bigger, more expensive ones if left untreated.
1. Cloudy Water After Opening
One of the most common problems pool owners face in May is cloudy water – even after the pool has been opened and running for several days. While it might initially look safe, water can quickly turn dull or hazy due to a combination of spring pollen, unbalanced chemicals, or insufficient filtration.
This typically happens when the pH or chlorine levels are off, or if fine debris and contaminants from winter haven’t been fully removed. In many cases, the filter isn’t running long enough or needs a thorough cleaning. Early-season wind and rain can also introduce dust and organic matter that clouds the water.
To fix the issue, start by testing and adjusting your pool chemistry – especially the chlorine, alkalinity, and pH levels. Then, brush the walls, vacuum the floor, and run the filter continuously for at least 12–24 hours. If chlorine is low, a shock treatment may be necessary to clear up bacteria and lingering organics.
For step-by-step help, refer to our guide on clearing cloudy pool water, which walks through exact troubleshooting methods.
2. Green Pool or Algae Bloom
Few things are more frustrating than pulling off your pool cover in May and finding green, murky water. Algae blooms are especially common during this month as warmer temperatures and spring debris create ideal conditions for rapid growth – particularly if chlorine levels are low or circulation is poor.
Why it happens:
- Chlorine was depleted over winter
- Debris or leaves left in the pool
- Filter isn’t running long enough
- Brushing and vacuuming were skipped at opening
How to fix it:
- Brush all pool surfaces thoroughly to break up algae
- Shock the pool with a high dose of chlorine
- Run the filter 24/7 until the water is clear
- Use algaecide if needed (after chlorine has been stabilized)
If this happens every year, it may be a sign your early-season routine is missing critical steps. Learn how to prevent algae problems before they start with the right approach to brushing, circulation, and chemical balance.
3. Pool Pump Not Circulating Properly
In May, many pool owners notice that their pump isn’t circulating water as it should – or in some cases, not at all. This is often the first warning sign of a bigger mechanical issue and can quickly lead to cloudy water, algae growth, and chemical imbalance if ignored.
Why it happens:
- Air trapped in suction lines after reopening
- Clogged skimmer or pump baskets
- Dirty or blocked filter
- Failing pump motor or worn-out o-rings
How to fix it:
- Make sure the pump is properly primed
- Clear out pump and skimmer baskets
- Backwash or clean the filter
- Inspect the pump lid and o-rings for air leaks
- Check the pressure gauge and listen for unusual sounds
Early signs of circulation issues should never be ignored – small malfunctions now can lead to full equipment breakdowns mid-season. Our pool repair prevention guide covers how to spot and fix common problems before they get worse.
4. Pool Chemicals Are Off Balance
Even if your water looks clean in May, there’s a good chance your pool chemistry is out of balance – especially if the pool sat closed for months. Without regular testing and adjustments, you risk everything from algae growth and eye irritation to corrosion of your pool surfaces and equipment.
Why it happens:
- Chlorine degraded over winter
- Rainwater and organic debris altered water composition
- pH and alkalinity levels drifted during the off-season
- Pool wasn’t properly balanced at opening
How to fix it:
- Test water for pH, chlorine, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness
- Adjust chemical levels using the correct balancing agents
- Shock the pool if chlorine is low
- Recheck chemical levels after 24–48 hours
Staying ahead of water balance early in the season helps prevent bigger problems down the road. Our full pool maintenance and cleaning guide explains how routine care keeps your pool safe and swim-ready all season long.
5. Pool Has Stains on Floor or Walls
Noticing dark stains or discoloration on your pool surface in May? It’s a common post-winter issue, especially if your pool had organic debris, metal content, or algae sitting untreated during the off-season. These stains don’t just look bad – they can signal water chemistry problems or damage to your pool’s finish.
Why it happens:
- Leaves, dirt, or algae settled over winter
- High metal content in the water (iron or copper)
- pH or chlorine imbalance
- Lack of brushing after opening
How to fix it:
- Brush stained areas to loosen surface buildup
- Identify the type of stain (organic vs. metal)
- Use ascorbic acid for metal stains or a stain remover product
- Balance pH and maintain proper chlorine levels to prevent recurrence
While some light stains fade with proper brushing and filtration, deeper or recurring discoloration may require professional help. If you’re dealing with this in a high-debris area, our pool cleaning service is equipped to restore your pool’s appearance quickly and safely.
6. Debris Keeps Coming Back After Cleaning
You’ve skimmed, vacuumed, and even cleaned the baskets – yet the same leaves, bugs, or pollen keep reappearing in your pool. This is a common frustration for pool owners in May, especially in New Jersey where spring winds, trees, and pollen are in full force.
Why it happens:
- Trees or shrubs constantly dropping debris
- Wind and rain reintroduce dirt and organic material
- Skimmer baskets fill up quickly and stop working efficiently
- Filter may be dirty or not running long enough
How to fix it:
- Clean skimmer and pump baskets more frequently
- Backwash or rinse the filter regularly
- Trim nearby landscaping if possible
- Increase filtration time during peak pollen or wind
- Schedule consistent weekly cleaning during spring
Keeping up with this kind of ongoing debris is tough alone – especially early in the season. That’s why many pool owners rely on a professional service to stay ahead of it. Here’s how often you should clean your pool to avoid buildup and maintain safe water conditions all season long: how often to clean your pool.
Don’t Let May Pool Problems Ruin Your Season
May is the month where your pool sets the tone for the entire summer – and small issues now can quickly grow into expensive problems later. Whether you’re dealing with cloudy water, algae, circulation problems, or recurring debris, the key is fast, professional care before things spiral.
At Desi Boys Pool Services, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing early-season pool issues across New Jersey. From one-time cleanups to weekly maintenance and equipment checks, we’ll keep your pool safe, clear, and stress-free – so you can focus on swimming, not scrubbing.
📞 Ready to Solve Your Pool Problems?
Let our pros handle it.
- 📱 Call +1 (609) 322 1655
- 📧 Email: info@desiboyspoolservices.com
- 🌐 Book Service Online
Serving East Windsor, West Windsor, Hamilton, Plainsboro, Robbinsville, and across Mercer County.
