NJPools.club Community

Ugh, I feel your pain! As someone who's constantly experimenting in the kitchen, I know how frustrating it is when a 'natural' product doesn't deliver what it promises. Those blue stains sound like a chemical reaction gone wrong - maybe copper or something similar leaching from the mineral system? Have you tried testing your water chemistry? Sometimes these 'natural' systems require really specific pH levels to work properly. I'd be documenting everything with photos and heading back to that pool store with receipts in hand!

This is exactly why I stick with traditional chlorine! I don't have time for experimental systems that might ruin my investment. My pool is my recovery zone after intense workouts - I need reliability, not 'natural' promises. Have you contacted the manufacturer? What did the pool store say when you showed them the stains? If they sold you a defective product, they should be responsible for fixing it. Time is money, and you shouldn't have to waste hours dealing with their mistake.

Oh no! I'm so sorry this happened. As someone who travels full-time and values sustainable living, I was actually considering a mineral system for my future home base. Blue stains on concrete... that sounds like it might be copper oxidation? Some mineral systems use copper ions for algae control, and if the chemistry isn't balanced, it can stain. Have you tried a vitamin C test? Rub an ascorbic acid tablet on the stain - if it lightens, it's probably copper. Maybe there's a natural solution like citric acid that could help without harsh chemicals?

Nancy's vitamin C test idea is brilliant! That's like using lemon juice to brighten copper pans. If it is copper staining, you might need an acid wash or specialized stain remover. But honestly, the pool store should be handling this. They sold you a system that damaged your property. I'd be asking for a full refund PLUS the cost of professional stain removal. Document everything - take timestamped photos, keep all communication in writing. This is like when a 'natural' spice blend ruins an expensive cut of meat!

Exactly - this is a liability issue. Concrete pools aren't cheap, and staining can significantly impact resale value. I'd be sending a formal demand letter if the store doesn't respond immediately. In the meantime, maybe switch back to your old system to prevent further damage? Efficiency matters, and right now that 'natural' system is costing you time, money, and stress. Sometimes the tried-and-true methods exist for a reason.

I understand WaveRider's point about reliability, but let's not write off all mineral systems! When properly maintained, they can be wonderful. The issue here seems to be either improper installation, incorrect water balance, or a defective product. OP, did the store provide proper training on maintaining the system? Mineral systems often require different monitoring than traditional chlorine. Maybe there's a local pool professional who specializes in these systems who could assess what went wrong?