Pollen season in Chattanooga, TN, and East Tennessee can turn your inground pool into a yellow-tinted mess. From March to June, oak, pine, and other trees blanket the region with pollen, clogging filters, clouding water, and making pool maintenance a headache. At Aquarium Pools, we’ve been crafting and maintaining inground concrete pools for over 50 years, and we know how to keep your pool crystal-clear even during the worst of pollen season. Here’s how to protect your pool and enjoy it all spring long.

Why Pollen is a Problem for Pools in Chattanooga

Chattanooga’s lush forests and rolling hills make it a haven for pollen-producing trees. The city often ranks high for seasonal allergies, and your pool feels the impact too. Pollen settles on the water’s surface, sinks to the bottom, or gets sucked into your filtration system. This can lead to:

Clogged filters: Reduced water flow and pump strain.
Cloudy water: Pollen particles scatter light, dulling your pool’s sparkle.
Algae risks: Pollen provides organic material that feeds algae growth.
Extra maintenance: More skimming, vacuuming, and chemical adjustments.

Fortunately, with the right strategies and equipment, you can minimize pollen’s impact and keep your pool inviting.

Inground Pool Solutions for Pollen Season

1. Upgrade Your Filtration System

A high-quality filtration system is your first line of defense. At Aquarium Pools, we recommend:

Cartridge filters for superior particle capture. They trap finer particles like pollen compared to sand filters.
Variable-speed pumps to run longer at lower speeds, improving circulation and reducing energy costs.
Regular backwashing or cleaning of filters is crucial during pollen season. Check your filter pressure weekly and clean when it rises 8-10 PSI above normal.

2. Install a Pool Cover

A custom-fitted pool cover is a game-changer. It blocks pollen from entering the water when your pool isn’t in use. Options include:

Automatic safety covers: Easy to use and durable, these keep pollen out while adding a safety layer for kids and pets.
Mesh covers: Lightweight and affordable, they let water through but catch larger debris like pollen and leaves. Uncover your pool only when you’re ready to swim, and you’ll reduce cleaning time significantly.

3. Skim and Vacuum Frequently

Pollen won’t wait, so stay proactive:

Skim daily: Use a fine-mesh skimmer to remove pollen from the surface before it sinks.
Vacuum weekly: A robotic pool cleaner, like those we install at Aquarium Pools, can handle pollen and debris on the pool floor without manual effort.
Empty skimmer baskets: Check and clear baskets daily to maintain water flow.

4. Optimize Water Chemistry

Pollen can throw off your pool’s balance, so test and adjust chemicals regularly:

Chlorine: Keep levels at 2-3 ppm to kill algae and break down organic material like pollen.
pH: Maintain 7.2-7.6 for clear water and effective chlorine performance.
Shock the pool: Weekly shocking (raising chlorine to 10 ppm) burns off pollen and prevents algae blooms. Use a clarifier to clump tiny pollen particles for easier filtration, and consider an algaecide for extra protection during peak pollen weeks.

5. Add a Water Feature

A waterfall or fountain does more than look good—it keeps water moving. Pollen is less likely to settle on a dynamic surface, and circulation helps push debris toward skimmers. Aquarium Pools specializes in custom concrete pools with integrated water features that enhance both aesthetics and functionality.

6. Schedule Professional Maintenance

Pollen season is relentless, and professional help can save you time and stress. Aquarium Pools offers maintenance packages tailored to East Tennessee’s seasonal challenges. Our experts can:

Clean and balance your pool.
Inspect and optimize equipment.
Recommend upgrades like energy-efficient pumps or advanced sanitization systems.

Why Choose Aquarium Pools?

For over 50 years, Aquarium Pools has been Chattanooga’s trusted name in inground concrete pools. Our custom designs, durable construction, and expert maintenance services ensure your pool stays pristine, even during pollen season. We understand East Tennessee’s unique climate and tailor solutions to keep your pool ready for family and friends.

Contact Chattanooga’s Pool Experts

Ready to make pollen season a breeze? Reach out to Aquarium Pools for a consultation, maintenance plan, or custom pool design.
Call us: 423-298-4002
Email us: mike@aquariumpools.com

Let’s keep your pool sparkling clear all spring long!