Pool Acid Wash Experts in Lexington, SC

What Is an Acid Wash?

An acid wash is a specialized process that removes a thin layer of the pool’s interior surface using a diluted muriatic acid solution. The procedure strips away embedded stains, algae, calcium deposits, scale, and discoloration caused by metals or improper water chemistry.

It’s commonly used to:

• Remove deep-set algae stains or mineral discoloration
• Eliminate rust or copper/iron leaching from plumbing or equipment
• Brighten dull or aged plaster
• Clean up pools that have gone green or black from neglect
• Prepare the surface before applying new plaster or resurfacing

Acid washing is not a weekly or seasonal cleaning method—it’s a restorative service best performed every 3 to 5 years, or when your pool’s finish shows clear signs of staining that cannot be removed through normal means.

Signs Your Pool Needs an Acid Wash

If you’re not sure whether your pool requires acid washing, look for these signs:

• Dark streaks or blotchy discoloration that doesn’t brush off
• Stubborn algae embedded in plaster or grout
• Rough, chalky texture from scale buildup
• Cloudy or discolored water that persists despite chemical treatment
• Metal stains (green, brown, blue) from old pipes or pool heaters
• Dull, lifeless appearance despite proper water chemistry

Pools that sit unused for a season or longer—especially uncovered pools—often develop extreme algae growth that penetrates the plaster. In these cases, acid washing is the most effective way to remove the organic material and bring the pool back to life.

The Poolman360 Acid Wash Process

At Poolman360, we take a careful, methodical approach to acid washing, protecting your pool surface, surrounding landscape, and our technicians throughout the process.

1. System Evaluation

We begin by inspecting your pool’s surface, water chemistry, and condition to confirm whether acid washing is the best solution. In some cases, we may recommend an alternative service such as a chlorine wash or drain-and-clean for milder surface issues.

2. Full Pool Drain

The pool must be completely drained before an acid wash. We use high-capacity submersible pumps to remove water quickly and check local ordinances to ensure proper drainage away from stormwater systems and neighboring properties.

3. Surface Prep and Safety Measures

Once drained, we remove any remaining debris and perform a thorough inspection of the surface to identify cracks, delamination, or other issues. We set up safety barriers and personal protective equipment, including acid-resistant gear, to perform the procedure safely.

4. Application of Acid Solution

Using a mixture of muriatic acid and water, we apply the solution to the plaster in small sections. The acid reacts with stains and buildup on the surface, dissolving them and revealing clean plaster underneath.

We scrub each area by hand or with acid brushes to ensure even coverage. After several seconds, the acid is neutralized and rinsed away immediately.

5. Neutralization and Rinse

To prevent any damage to the surface or environment, we follow each acid treatment with a neutralizing rinse that balances pH levels and prepares the surface for refill. We ensure all waste is safely contained and disposed of in accordance with environmental standards.

6. Pool Refill and Rebalancing

After a successful acid wash, we refill your pool with fresh water and test/adjust all chemistry levels—balancing pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness to protect the newly cleaned surface. We also inspect equipment to ensure clean water flows correctly from day one.

Compatible Pool Surfaces

Acid washing is most effective on pools with:

• White plaster finishes
• Marcite or older traditional surfaces
• Exposed aggregate (PebbleTec or Pebble Sheen) — with caution
• Gunite pools with sound structure

We do not recommend acid washing vinyl-lined pools or fiberglass shells, as the acid can cause permanent damage. If your pool has one of these surfaces, we can recommend safe alternatives.

How Often Should You Acid Wash Your Pool?

In Lexington’s warm climate, pools stay open longer—and that means more exposure to staining agents, scale, and algae.

We recommend acid washing:

• Every 3 to 5 years for general stain removal
• After long periods of neglect or green/black pool conditions
• Prior to resurfacing or re-plastering
• As part of a major remodel or property turnover

More frequent acid washing may wear down the plaster prematurely. If you maintain regular chemical balance and filtration, your pool may go several years without needing one.

Protecting Your Pool After an Acid Wash

A clean surface is only part of the solution. To preserve the bright, fresh look of your pool after an acid wash, we recommend:

• Weekly pool service to maintain water chemistry
• Proper calcium and alkalinity levels to reduce scale buildup
• Regular brushing to prevent algae reattachment
• Timely filter cleaning and equipment maintenance
• Avoiding metals or high-copper fill water

Poolman360 offers full-service weekly maintenance packages to help you extend the life of your finish and minimize the need for another acid wash down the road.

Local Acid Wash Experts in Lexington, SC

Poolman360 has been serving homeowners across Lexington County and the greater Columbia area with expert surface restoration for years. We’ve acid washed pools in:

• Lake Murray lakefront properties
• Downtown Lexington neighborhoods
• Red Bank and White Knoll subdivisions
• Older plaster pools in Irmo and Chapin
• Rental properties in West Columbia and Cayce

Whether your pool has sat untouched all winter or you’re prepping it for a summer sale, we’ll return your surface to its clean, original appearance—safely, thoroughly, and professionally.

Why Choose Poolman360?

When it comes to acid washing, you want an experienced team that understands the risks and proper handling of harsh chemicals. Poolman360 provides:

• Fully trained, licensed, and insured technicians
• Acid washing with strict safety and environmental protocols
• Knowledge of plaster types and stain behavior
• Full post-wash water balancing and startup
• Honest assessments—no unnecessary work
• Transparent quotes and prompt scheduling

We don’t cut corners. Your pool deserves the kind of attention to detail that ensures its surface is protected and its beauty restored.

Request Acid Wash Pool Service in Lexington, SC

If your pool has lost its visual appeal or become stained beyond what normal cleaning can fix, it’s time to restore it with a professional acid wash. Let the experienced team at Poolman360 clean and revive your pool interior the right way.

Call (803) 989-POOL (7665) or request a free estimate online today. We’ll evaluate your pool, explain the process, and get your surface looking like new—just in time for swim season.

Poolman360
Surface Restoration You Can Trust – Serving Lexington, SC and the Greater Columbia Region