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ACID WASH
Pool Acid Wash Services in Phoenix, AZ
Severe algae staining, years of mineral buildup, or a pool that's been sitting neglected — an acid wash restores your plaster to a clean, fresh surface when standard treatment won't cut it.
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What Is a Pool Acid Wash — And When Do You Need One?
An acid wash is a deep-cleaning process that removes a thin layer of your pool's plaster surface using a diluted acid solution. It's one of the most effective ways to eliminate severe algae staining, calcium buildup, and discoloration that have penetrated too deeply into the plaster to be removed by standard chemical treatment.
Because an acid wash removes a layer of plaster, it's not a service to do casually — plaster has a finite thickness and each acid wash removes some of it. However, when done correctly by experienced professionals, an acid wash can dramatically transform the appearance of a stained or neglected pool and buy years of additional life from the existing plaster surface.
Roadrunner Pool Service has been performing acid washes on Phoenix Valley pools for over 24 years. We know when an acid wash is the right solution and when it isn't — and we'll give you an honest assessment before recommending it.
IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU?
Signs Your Pool May Need an Acid Wash
An acid wash is a significant service — not every pool needs one. Here are the situations where an acid wash is typically the right call.
Severe Algae Staining
When a pool has been severely green or black for an extended period, algae can stain the plaster surface too deeply for chemical treatment to remove. An acid wash strips away the stained layer to reveal fresh, clean plaster underneath.
Long-Term Neglect
Pools that have been abandoned or left without proper maintenance for a season or more often accumulate staining and buildup that standard treatment can't address. An acid wash is the most effective reset for severely neglected pools.
Calcium & Mineral Scaling
Phoenix's hard water causes calcium scaling on pool plaster over time. When calcium deposits build up heavily enough to create rough, chalky patches on the pool floor and walls, an acid wash is often the most effective removal method.
Brown or Gray Discoloration
Persistent brown, gray, or mottled discoloration that doesn't respond to chemical treatment or brushing is often a sign of deep mineral staining or organic matter embedded in the plaster. Acid washing removes the affected surface layer.
Buying a New Home
Moving into a home with a pool that hasn't been properly maintained? An acid wash gives you a clean slate — removing years of accumulated staining and discoloration so you can start fresh with proper maintenance.
Chemical Treatment Failed
If you've gone through a green pool cleanup process and the pool cleared up but the walls and floor still show heavy staining, an acid wash is the logical next step to address what the chemicals couldn't reach.
THE PROCESS
How a Pool Acid Wash Works
An acid wash is a multi-step process that requires experience, the right equipment, and careful handling of chemicals. Here's what's involved.
Drain the Pool
The pool must be completely drained before an acid wash can be performed. We coordinate the drain to avoid issues with hydrostatic pressure and ensure the process is done safely.
Apply Acid Solution
A diluted muriatic acid solution is applied to the pool surface in sections. The acid reacts with the plaster, dissolving the top layer along with staining, algae deposits, and mineral buildup.
Scrub & Rinse
Each section is scrubbed and then thoroughly rinsed with water to stop the acid reaction. This process is repeated across the entire pool surface — walls, floor, steps, and coves.
Neutralize & Pump Out
Once all surfaces have been treated, the acid rinse water pooled at the bottom is neutralized with soda ash and pumped out of the pool. Proper disposal is required to meet Arizona environmental regulations.
Final Rinse & Inspection
The entire pool is given a final rinse and inspection to ensure the surface is clean and consistent. Any areas needing additional treatment are addressed before we move to the fill stage.
Refill & Balance
Once the acid wash is complete, the pool is refilled with fresh water and properly balanced with the correct startup chemicals for newly washed plaster. We recommend enrolling in a regular maintenance plan at this point to protect the fresh surface.
Honest Advice: Acid Washing Isn't Always the Answer
Because an acid wash removes plaster, it's a service that should only be done when genuinely necessary. Pool plaster typically lasts 10–15 years, and each acid wash shortens that lifespan somewhat. We'll always assess your pool honestly and recommend an acid wash only when it's the right solution — not just because it's a bigger job.
If your pool can be restored through chemical treatment, professional green pool cleanup, or thorough brushing, we'll tell you that instead. Our goal is the right solution for your pool, not the most expensive one.
FAQ
Pool Acid Wash — Common Questions
GET A QUOTE
Request an Acid Wash Assessment
Not sure if your pool needs an acid wash? Call us or fill out the form and we'll assess your pool honestly and tell you exactly what it needs — and what it doesn't.
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Serving the entire Phoenix Valley — honest advice, upfront pricing.
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