How to Do an Acid Wash in the In-ground Pool

In-ground pool owners that have a gunite pool structure with an outside layer of plaster will suffer occasional staining through the years. These stains on the pool floor and walls are the result of mineral deposits, algae, phosphates and other materials. These mineral stains cause a discoloration in your pool which are best cleaned using an acid wash of your pool. This involves completely draining the pool however, which can take a lot of time depending on the size of the pool.

Garden hose
Rubber boots
Rubber gloves
Goggles
Respirator
Stiff bristle scrub brush
Pump sprayer
Muriatic acid

Instructions

- 1
  Drain the swimming pool completely. In-ground pool systems have a dedicated draining system built into the filter plumbing.
- 2
  Remove hardware such as ladders, rails and other metal hardware that can become damaged during the acid wash. Rinse the pool with water to remove any loose dirt and debris from the pool plaster.
- 3
  Remove the main drain cover and clean out drain. Copper plumbing outlets such as the skimmer drain and other plugs should be stuffed with rags soaked in baking soda which can protect the plumbing and neutralize the acid.
- 4
  Dress yourself in protective gear that includes rubber boots, gloves, goggles and a respirator. The respirator will protect you and your lungs from the fumes.
- 5
  Add one part muriatic acid for ten parts water. Mix the solution in the pump sprayer. Work in small sections with the routine of spraying, scrubbing and rinsing the area with water. Apply the mixture in small sections and work your way around the pool.
- 6
  Rinse the entire pool with water again after scrubbing the entire pool with muriatic acid. Allow the pool to completely dry before reinstalling the hardware and filling it up with water again.

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