Pool Tile - Calcium?

[phoenixtx]

First time owning a pool. We have a 12" raised spa, and on the side of the circle spa that faces the pool the explosed tile seems to have built up some hardended calcium spots. I think it's calcium. It's white colored, only occurring on the tiles that are on the raised spa. The white built up is "crystalized" not flat on the tile.

Any ideas or recommendations on how to get this cleaned up. Don't have any pictures of it right now but can post some later.

 

[phoenixtx]

no idea how to post a photo but here is the flickr link

http://www.flickr.com/photos/78425727@N05/7706236402/

 

[RobbieH]

Please post a full set of pool test results. That will help us a lot in determining if it's calcium.

 

[linen]

It could be efflorescence, see: http://www.troublefreepool.com/what-is-this-white-stuff-t34141.html

Like RobbieH said, post some test numbers.

 

[duraleigh]

It is effloressence. Minerals inside the grout migrate forward out of the grout and crystallize on the surface. It will eventually stop. Meanwhile, physically remove what you can and then use dilute muriatic to clean off the rest.

 

[phoenixtx]

What the best method for removing it? Its on there pretty good. I think I would need to use a chisel and hammer to knock it loose.

 

[mynewncpool]

I used a pumice stick for the tile, that see to work pretty good.... grout is a different story!! I have not done the acid/water mix..going to try that in the fall