Pentair Intellichlor with new plaster - green tint appearing, is this fixable?
New Plaster Anxiety
2026-01-04T16:04:43.549Z
#1
Oh honey, I've seen this before! When we had our pool replastered last spring, we waited a full 30 days before turning on the salt system. The plaster needs time to cure properly. That green tint you're seeing is likely copper or other metals leaching from your new plaster reacting with the chlorine. My grandfather always said "patience prevents problems" - you should have waited! Try adding a metal sequestrant immediately and keep your pH balanced around 7.4-7.6. This might clear up with proper water chemistry.
2026-01-04T16:14:43.549Z
#2
Just got home from my night shift and saw this - don't panic! I had the EXACT same issue last month. Working nights means I'm always testing my pool at 3 AM when problems appear. That green tint is almost certainly copper staining from the new plaster. Here's what worked for me:
1. Turn OFF the Intellichlor immediately
2. Add a quality metal sequestrant (I used Jack's Magic)
3. Keep pH at 7.2-7.4 for a few days
4. Brush the pool twice daily
It took about a week, but the green completely disappeared. The staining isn't permanent if you act fast!
2026-01-04T16:24:43.549Z
#3
Fascinating chemical reaction! As a tech enthusiast, I've been monitoring my pool with smart sensors since my replaster. The green tint is likely copper hydroxide formation (Cu(OH)₂) from copper in the plaster reacting with your Intellichlor's chlorine output.
**Data-driven solution:**
- Use a digital tester to confirm copper levels (should be < 0.2 ppm)
- Install an ORP/pH controller to automate chemical balance
- Consider adding a sacrificial zinc anode to your system
- There are apps that can calculate exact sequestrant doses based on your pool volume
This is totally fixable with the right technology and precise chemistry!
2026-01-04T16:34:43.549Z
#4
Your body of water is speaking to you! That green tint is a sign of imbalance in your pool's natural ecosystem. Salt systems create such harsh energy that new plaster can't handle it yet.
Instead of chemical sequestrants (which just mask the problem), consider:
• Adding crushed eggshells to buffer the water naturally
• Using vitamin C tablets on the stained areas (ascorbic acid treatment)
• Increasing circulation time to help the plaster breathe
• Adding aquatic plants in floating baskets to absorb metals
Remember, everything in nature seeks balance. Your pool will heal itself if you create the right environment. Breathe deeply - this isn't permanent damage, just a temporary imbalance.
2026-01-04T16:44:43.549Z
#5
Ellen, while I appreciate your natural approach, this pool owner needs practical help NOW! Pete's advice is solid - immediate action with proper chemicals. Vitamin C treatments work for iron stains, but for copper you need specific sequestrants. And please, nobody add eggshells to their pool filter!
To the original poster: What's your current pH and alkalinity? Have you tested for metals? The key is balancing your water while the plaster cures. My neighbor made this same mistake and his pool cleared up in 10 days with proper treatment.
2026-01-04T16:54:43.549Z
#6
Olivia's right about testing first. Before buying anything, get your water tested at a pool store for metals. They can tell you exactly what you're dealing with.
Pro tip from a night owl: Treat the pool in the evening when the sun's off it. Chemicals work better without UV breakdown. And brush, brush, brush! The physical action helps the sequestrant work and prevents permanent setting.
Don't worry - I was panicking too when mine turned green. Two weeks later it was crystal clear. Just don't let it sit untreated!