Pool Clarifier & Flocculant Calculator
Cloudy, hazy, or milky pool water happens when microscopic particles (under 20 microns) are too tiny for standard pool filters to catch. Use our calculator below to determine the exact ounces of water clarifier or flocculant needed based on your pool gallons and filter type.
Pool Clarifier & Flocculant Calculator
Calculate the exact ounces of pool clarifier or flocculant needed to clear hazy, cloudy, or dead algae pool water without causing chemical overdosing.
Cartridge filters should NOT use flocculant because settled gelatinous floc ruins paper filter elements.
Keep pump and filter running continuously 24/7 until water clears. Backwash filter when pressure rises 8–10 PSI.
Fast-acting concentrated formula. Clears cloudy water in 12–24 hours without affecting pH balance. Safe for all filter types.
Drops dead algae, colloidal clays, and milky dust to the pool floor overnight. The fastest way to restore zero-visibility pools.
Smartzyme technology naturally digests bather oils, suntan lotions, and pollen that cause surface foam and water haze.
Pool Clarifier vs. Pool Flocculant: Which Do You Need?
| Feature | Pool Water Clarifier | Pool Flocculant (Floc) |
|---|---|---|
| Best Used For | Mild to moderate haze, routine maintenance | Severe zero-visibility milky water, dead algae drop |
| How It Works | Clumps particles together so filter captures them | Coagulates and sinks particles to floor as heavy blanket |
| Filter Pump Operation | Run continuously 24/7 | Turn pump COMPLETELY OFF for 12–24 hours |
| Vacuuming Required? | No (filter cleans it automatically) | Yes (must vacuum directly to WASTE) |
| Cartridge Filter Safe? | 100% Safe | DO NOT USE (Destroys cartridge paper) |
The 3-Step Protocol to Fix Cloudy Pool Water in 24 Hours
Clarifiers and flocculants cannot function properly if water pH is acidic (below 7.2) or overly alkaline (above 7.8). Ensure pH is dialed into 7.4 to 7.6 before adding any clearing chemicals.
Backwash your sand or DE filter thoroughly, or hose down your cartridge pleats. A dirty filter with high pressure cannot circulate water fast enough to clear microscopic haze.
More is NOT better! Strictly follow the calculated dosage (4–6 oz per 10k gal). Overdosing clarifier acts in reverse and keeps water cloudy for weeks.